Since its debut in 2007, the Assassin's Creed series has taken players on a thrilling journey through various historical settings, from the Renaissance era in Italy to the ancient landscapes of Greece. Ubisoft's commitment to blending open-world exploration with historical narratives has set the series apart, offering a unique blend of education and entertainment that distinguishes it from other action-adventure games often set in fantasy or modern environments.
While the core mechanics of Assassin's Creed have remained consistent across its 14 mainline entries, the series has evolved significantly, introducing new elements in player progression and expanding its worlds. This evolution prompts the question: which Assassin's Creed games stand out as the best? After careful consideration, we've compiled a list of the top 10 mainline entries in the series.
So, without further ado, here are our top 10 Assassin’s Creed games.
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 a poignant conclusion to the stories of Altair Ibn-La-Ahad and Ezio Auditore. Despite some less impactful additions like the Den Defense mode, the game offers a thrilling and memorable farewell. From ziplining through Constantinople to interacting with Leonardo Da Vinci, Revelations is packed with engaging adventures. It marks both a celebration of the series' early days and a glimpse into its future, allowing players to bid farewell to two iconic characters.
Assassin's Creed Syndicate
Assassin's Creed Syndicate is distinguished by its setting in 19th-century Victorian London, a period of industrialization that provides a rich backdrop for the game's action. Players can sneak through factories, race horse-drawn carriages, and even confront Jack the Ripper, grounding the game in a tangible yet fantastical world. The game's unique string-heavy score by Austin Wintory, along with distinct soundtracks for protagonists Jacob and Evie Frye, enhances the immersive experience. Additionally, the game's combat system, particularly the use of a cane, adds a unique flair reminiscent of games like Bloodborne.
Assassin's Creed Valhalla
Assassin's Creed Valhalla, while not as revolutionary as Origins, introduced significant changes to the series. The combat system feels more impactful, and the shift from traditional side quests to world events enhances the exploration aspect. The game also streamlined the loot system, making rewards feel more meaningful. Eivor's story, blending historical fantasy with Norse mythology, is engaging and offers fans a deep dive into the sagas, culminating in an expansive DLC that feels like a companion to God of War.
Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood
Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood continues Ezio Auditore's journey, solidifying his status as a beloved protagonist. Set in an expanded Rome, the game builds on the mechanics introduced in Assassin's Creed 2, including swimming, property management, and the use of firearms and recruitable allies. The game's charm, wit, and drama, combined with updated combat, allow players to embrace the role of an aggressive assassin. It also introduced multiplayer, offering a fresh perspective by allowing players to play as Templars.
Assassin's Creed Origins
Assassin's Creed Origins marked a pivotal shift in the series, transitioning from a stealth-focused action-adventure to a full-fledged open-world RPG. Set in ancient Egypt, the game's central story follows Bayek and Aya as they seek justice and ultimately found the Assassin's Brotherhood. The expansive world, compelling narrative, and the introduction of loot-based progression and action RPG combat revitalized the series, offering a fresh experience for fans.
Assassin's Creed Unity
Assassin's Creed Unity, set in a meticulously recreated Paris, returned to the series' original tone after the pirate-themed Black Flag. Despite a rocky launch plagued by bugs and glitches, Unity has since been refined through patches and is now cherished by fans. Its enhanced parkour system offers fluid and elegant movement, while the main assassination missions provide diverse infiltration options. The game's depiction of Notre Dame alone makes it a visual treat.
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 the long-requested Feudal Japan, Assassin's Creed Shadows meets the high expectations set by fans. The game refocuses on stealth and assassination, offering a more restrained open world and RPG elements compared to its predecessors. Featuring dual protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, Shadows provides a balanced experience, with Naoe's stealth toolkit and Yasuke's samurai combat. The dynamic seasonal changes in the game's world add to its immersive quality.
Assassin's Creed Odyssey
Assassin's Creed Odyssey expands on Origins' combat and RPG elements, set against the backdrop of Ancient Greece during the Peloponnesian War. The game's vast, vibrant world includes stunning landscapes and engaging naval warfare. The notoriety system and nation struggle mechanics add tension and depth, while the story, featuring a charismatic protagonist, keeps players engaged throughout its lengthy playtime. Even after completion, the world remains a delight to explore.
Assassin's Creed 2
Assassin's Creed 2 not only proved the series' potential but also set a high standard for sequels. It introduced dynamic assassination missions, improved combat and mobility, and new features like catacomb missions and an upgradeable villa. Set during the Italian Renaissance, the game introduced Ezio Auditore, a defining protagonist, and enhanced the narrative connection between the past and present. The game's climax, involving a confrontation with the Pope and a supernatural twist, remains unforgettable.
Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag
Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag introduced a refreshing change by focusing on a pirate protagonist, Edward Kenway, who is an assassin second. The Caribbean setting offers a sandbox playground filled with islands, treasure, and activities. The game's naval combat, built upon Assassin's Creed 3's framework, becomes a highlight, allowing players to engage in thrilling ship battles and seamless transitions between land and sea. Black Flag not only stands out in the Assassin's Creed series but also ranks among the best pirate games ever made.
### Every Assassin's Creed Game Tier ListEvery Assassin's Creed Game Tier List
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And there you have it! Those are our top Assassin’s Creed games. Disagree with the ranking? Think another entry should have been on the list? Let us know your favorite Assassin’s Creed in the comments.
Upcoming Assassin's Creed Games
If you're eager to see what's next for Assassin's Creed, keep an eye on several upcoming titles. Assassin's Creed Shadows, set in Feudal Japan, has just been released, allowing players to experience the life of both a shinobi and a 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, bringing fresh ideas to the series.
Assassin's Creed: The Complete Playlist
From the 2007 debut to the latest console, PC, mobile, and VR projects, here is the entire Assassin's Creed series in one comprehensive list. Log in to track which ones you've played.
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