The Assassin's Creed series has captivated gamers with its historical adventures since its debut in 2007. From Renaissance Italy to Ancient Greece, Ubisoft's expansive open-world games have provided a unique blend of action, stealth, and history, setting the series apart from others that often focus on fantasy or modern settings.
While the core mechanics of Assassin's Creed have largely remained consistent through its 14 mainline entries, the series has evolved significantly, introducing new gameplay elements and ever-expanding worlds. This has led to a rich variety of experiences, each with its own strengths and appeal.
Choosing the best Assassin's Creed games is no easy task. After much discussion, we've settled on the top 10 mainline entries in the series. Here's our ranking of the best 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 masterfully concluded the journeys of Altair Ibn-La-Ahad and Ezio Auditore. Despite some less memorable features like Den Defense, the game delivered a thrilling farewell. From ziplining through Constantinople to encounters with Leonardo Da Vinci, Revelations was packed with captivating adventures. It served as both a celebration of the series' past and a glimpse into its future, allowing players to bid farewell to the first era of Assassin’s Creed.
Assassin's Creed Syndicate
Assassin's Creed Syndicate stands out with its setting in 19th Century Victorian London during the Industrial Revolution. The game's environment, from factories to horse-drawn carriage races and even encounters with Jack the Ripper, creates a vivid, immersive experience. The unique score by Austin Wintory adds to the atmosphere, with distinct soundtracks for protagonists Jacob and Evie Frye. Syndicate's world is cohesive and engaging, highlighted by the effective combat mechanics, including fighting with a cane.
Assassin's Creed Valhalla
Assassin's Creed Valhalla brought substantial changes to the series, enhancing combat with a weightier feel and replacing traditional side quests with world events for more organic exploration. The game also refined the loot system, making rewards more meaningful. While Eivor may not be the most beloved protagonist, their story blends historical fantasy and Norse mythology seamlessly. The expansion into the world of Thor and Odin further enriches the experience, akin to a cousin of God of War.
Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood
Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood continued Ezio Auditore da Firenze's saga, cementing him as a fan-favorite. Set in an expanded Rome, the game built upon mechanics introduced in Assassin's Creed 2, including swimming, property management, and recruitable allies. The charm, wit, and drama of Ezio's story, combined with updated combat, allowed players to embody the aggressive assassin they desired. It also introduced multiplayer, letting players experience the Templar side of the conflict.
Assassin's Creed Origins
Origins marked a pivotal shift for the series, transforming it into a full-fledged open-world RPG. The compelling story of Bayek and Aya, set against the backdrop of ancient Egypt, is a highlight. Their quest for justice evolves into the founding of the Assassin's Brotherhood. The game's shift to loot-based progression and action RPG combat reinvigorated the series, offering a fresh and engaging experience.
Assassin's Creed Unity
Assassin’s Creed Unity returned to the series' roots with a focus on stealth and assassination. As the first next-gen exclusive, it showcased impressive graphics and a detailed recreation of Paris. Despite a rocky launch with numerous bugs, subsequent patches have made it a favorite among fans. The enhanced parkour system and diverse assassination missions are standout features, and the depiction of Notre Dame adds to its allure.
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 refocuses on stealth and assassination. The game features two protagonists: Naoe, with her stealth toolkit, and Yasuke, embodying the samurai fantasy. The open world, while expansive, is more restrained than previous entries, offering a balanced experience. The dynamic seasonal changes enhance the exploration of this stunning world.
Assassin's Creed Odyssey
Assassin's Creed Odyssey expanded on Origins' 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 charismatic protagonist and eccentric side quests make for a compelling narrative. Even after completion, there's much to explore and enjoy.
Assassin's Creed 2
Assassin's Creed 2 refined the series' formula, introducing dynamic assassination missions, improved combat, and the ability to swim. The Italian Renaissance setting and protagonist Ezio Auditore da Firenze became iconic. The game's villa upgrade system and Leonardo da Vinci's inventions added depth and freshness. The narrative's connection between past and present, culminating in a dramatic confrontation with the Pope, solidified Assassin's Creed 2 as a landmark entry.
Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag
Black Flag introduced a pirate-centric adventure in the Caribbean, featuring a sandbox playground filled with islands, treasure, and activities. The game's naval combat, built upon Assassin's Creed 3's framework, became a highlight, offering thrilling ship battles and seamless transitions between land and sea. The protagonist, Edward Kenway, brought a fresh perspective, making Black Flag not only a standout Assassin's Creed game but also one of the best pirate games ever.
### 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 for more Assassin's Creed adventures, keep an eye on upcoming titles. Assassin's Creed Shadows, set in Feudal Japan, has just been released, offering dual perspectives of a shinobi and samurai. Assassin's Creed Jade, set in ancient China, is in development for mobile devices, though a release date is yet to be confirmed. 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 upcoming projects across consoles, PC, mobile, and VR, here's the entire Assassin's Creed series in one list. Log in to track which ones you've played. See All!