Since its debut in 2007, the Assassin's Creed series has taken players on thrilling journeys through various historical settings, from Renaissance Italy to Ancient Greece. Ubisoft's commitment to exploring diverse locales and historical periods has set the series apart from other action-adventure games, which often focus on fantasy or modern-day settings. This unique approach not only entertains but also offers a semi-educational experience, enriching players' understanding of different eras.
While the core gameplay of Assassin's Creed has remained consistent across its 14 mainline entries, the series has evolved significantly. Changes in player progression, combat mechanics, and the expansion of open worlds have kept the franchise fresh and engaging. After careful consideration, we've compiled a list of the top 10 Assassin's Creed games, highlighting the best of what the series has to offer.
The 10 Best Assassin's Creed Games
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Playing the latest game in the series? Check out our Assassin's Creed Shadows guide.
Assassin's Creed: Revelations
Assassin's Creed: Revelations serves as the culmination of Altair Ibn-La-Ahad and Ezio Auditore's narratives. While it introduced some less memorable features like Den Defense mode, the game offered a thrilling conclusion to these iconic characters' journeys. From exhilarating zipline rides in Constantinople to encounters with Leonardo Da Vinci, Revelations is packed with engaging adventures. It marks both an end and a new beginning for the Assassin's Creed saga, allowing players to bid farewell to the series' first era.
Assassin's Creed Syndicate
Assassin's Creed games are renowned for their immersive settings, and Syndicate's Victorian London during the Industrial Revolution is no exception. The game's atmosphere is enhanced by activities such as sneaking through factories, racing horse-drawn carriages, and confronting Jack the Ripper. The distinctive soundtrack by Austin Wintory, featuring dueling themes for protagonists Jacob and Evie Fry, adds a unique layer of immersion. Moreover, the game's combat system, particularly the use of a cane, is reminiscent of the elegance seen in games like Bloodborne.
Assassin's Creed Valhalla
While not as revolutionary as Origins, Assassin's Creed Valhalla introduces significant enhancements. Combat feels more impactful, and the replacement of traditional side quests with world events encourages more organic exploration. The game also streamlines the loot system, making rewards feel more meaningful. Eivor's story blends historical fantasy with Norse mythology, offering a rich narrative experience. The inclusion of an expansive expansion set in the realm of Thor and Odin adds depth, making Valhalla a standout title in the series.
Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood
Continuing Ezio Auditore da Firenze's saga, Brotherhood solidifies him as a beloved protagonist. Set primarily in Rome, the game expands on the mechanics introduced in Assassin's Creed 2, including swimming, property management, firearms, and recruitable allies. The narrative is rich with charm, wit, and drama, and the updated combat system allows players to embrace the role of a more aggressive assassin. Brotherhood also introduced multiplayer, offering a fresh perspective by allowing players to play as Templars.
Assassin's Creed Origins
Origins represents a pivotal shift for the series, transitioning from stealth-focused action to a full-fledged open-world RPG. Set in ancient Egypt, the game offers a compelling story centered on Bayek and Aya, who seek justice and ultimately found the Assassin's Brotherhood. The shift to loot-based progression and action RPG combat reinvigorated the series, providing fans with a fresh yet familiar experience.
Assassin's Creed Unity
Unity marks a return to the series' roots with its focus on stealth and assassination. Launched on next-gen consoles, it showcased stunning graphics and a near-accurate recreation of Paris. Despite a rocky launch plagued by bugs, Unity has since been refined through patches, earning its place among fans' favorites. The game's enhanced parkour system and intricate assassination missions set a high standard for the series.
Assassin's Creed Shadows
Developer: Ubisoft Quebec | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release date: March 20, 2025 | Review: Read IGN's Assassin's Creed Shadows review
Set in Feudal Japan, Assassin's Creed Shadows fulfills fans' long-standing request for this setting. The game refocuses on stealth and assassination, offering a more balanced open-world experience compared to its predecessors. With two playable protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, players can experience the game from different perspectives. Naoe's stealth-focused toolkit and Yasuke's samurai combat style provide varied gameplay, set against the backdrop of a dynamically changing world.
Assassin's Creed Odyssey
Odyssey expands on Origins' RPG elements, set against the backdrop of Ancient Greece during the Peloponnesian War. The game's vast world is filled with stunning vistas and engaging naval warfare. The notoriety system adds tension, while the nation struggle feature allows players to participate in large-scale battles. With a compelling story and charismatic protagonists, Odyssey offers an immersive experience that extends well beyond the main narrative.
Assassin's Creed 2
Assassin's Creed 2 is often credited with refining the series' core formula. Set during the Italian Renaissance, it introduces Ezio Auditore da Firenze, one of the franchise's most iconic protagonists. The game enhances assassination missions, combat, and mobility, including the ability to swim. New features like catacomb missions and an upgradeable villa add depth, while Leonardo da Vinci's inventions keep gameplay fresh. The game's narrative seamlessly blends historical and modern-day elements, culminating in a memorable finale.
Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag
Black Flag introduces a unique twist with protagonist Edward Kenway, a pirate first and an assassin second. Set in the Caribbean, the game transforms the region into a vibrant sandbox filled with treasure and activities. The naval combat system, an evolution from Assassin's Creed 3, becomes a highlight, allowing players to engage in thrilling ship battles. The seamless transition between land and sea, combined with the engaging pirate theme, makes Black Flag a standout title in the series and one of the best pirate games available.
### Every Assassin's Creed Game Tier ListEvery Assassin's Creed Game Tier List
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These are our top Assassin’s Creed games. If you have a different favorite or think another entry deserves a spot on the list, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments.
Upcoming Assassin's Creed Games
Looking ahead, several exciting Assassin's Creed titles are on the horizon. Assassin's Creed Shadows, set in Feudal Japan, has just been released, offering a dual perspective of a shinobi and samurai. Assassin's Creed Jade, set in ancient China, is in development for mobile devices, though a release date remains unconfirmed. Additionally, Assassin's Creed: Codename Hexe promises a mysterious and occult-themed adventure, introducing fresh concepts to the series.
Assassin's Creed: The Complete Playlist
From the 2007 debut to upcoming projects across consoles, PC, mobile, and VR, here is a comprehensive list of the entire Assassin's Creed series. Log in to track which games you've played.
