Since its debut in 2007, the Assassin's Creed series has taken players on a thrilling journey through history, from the bustling streets of Renaissance Italy to the ancient landscapes of Greece. Ubisoft's commitment to exploring diverse historical settings has set the series apart, offering a unique blend of action, adventure, and education. 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 expansive worlds.
Determining the best Assassin's Creed games is no easy task, but after careful consideration, we've compiled a list of the top 10 mainline entries that stand out for their innovation, storytelling, and immersive gameplay.
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 concludes 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 serves as 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 transports players to Victorian London during the Industrial Revolution, creating one of the most memorable settings in the series. The game's atmosphere is enhanced by sneaking through factories, racing carriages, and confronting Jack the Ripper. The unique string-heavy score by Austin Wintory, along with distinct soundtracks for protagonists Jacob and Evie Frye, adds to the immersive experience. Syndicate's attention to detail and effective combat, including the use of a cane, make it a standout entry.
Assassin's Creed Valhalla
Assassin's Creed Valhalla introduces significant changes without reinventing the series. The combat feels more impactful, and the shift from traditional side quests to world events enhances exploration. The game also streamlines the loot system, making rewards more meaningful. While Eivor may not be the most beloved protagonist, the narrative blends historical fantasy with Norse mythology seamlessly. The expansion into the world of Thor and Odin adds a rich layer to the experience, akin to a God of War cousin.
Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood
Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood continues Ezio Auditore's journey, solidifying his status as a fan-favorite. 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 charm, wit, and drama of Ezio's story, combined with updated combat, allow players to embrace the role of an aggressive assassin. Brotherhood also introduced multiplayer, offering a fresh perspective as Templars, and remains cherished for its engaging gameplay.
Assassin's Creed Origins
Assassin's Creed Origins marks 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 and engaging experience.
Assassin's Creed Unity
Assassin's Creed Unity, the first exclusive release for Xbox One and PlayStation 4, showcases stunning graphics and a detailed recreation of Paris. Despite a rocky launch with numerous bugs, subsequent patches have transformed it into a fan favorite. The game's enhanced movement system offers the most fluid parkour in the series, enabling effective hit-and-run tactics. The main assassination missions are a highlight, providing multiple infiltration options, and the detailed 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 meets high expectations by refocusing on stealth and assassinations. The game features two playable protagonists: Naoe, with her stealth-focused toolkit, and Yasuke, a formidable samurai. The open world, while expansive, is more restrained than previous entries, offering a balanced experience. The dynamic seasonal changes and the freedom to explore with Naoe's grappling hook and climbing abilities make Shadows a standout title.
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 revamped notoriety system and nation struggle mechanics add tension and depth, while the compelling story and charismatic protagonist, whether male or female, keep players invested. Odyssey's world is a joy to explore, even after completing the main narrative.
Assassin's Creed 2
Assassin's Creed 2 not only refined the series' formula but also introduced Ezio Auditore da Firenze, one of the most iconic protagonists in gaming. Set during the Italian Renaissance, the game offers dynamic assassination missions, improved combat, and the ability to swim. New features like catacomb missions, the upgradeable villa, and Leonardo da Vinci's inventions keep gameplay fresh. The narrative seamlessly blends historical and modern-day elements, culminating in an unforgettable ending that showcases the series' potential.
Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag
Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag introduces Edward Kenway, a pirate first and an assassin second, creating a unique and engaging narrative. The Caribbean setting serves as a sandbox playground filled with islands, treasures, and activities. The game's naval combat, built upon Assassin's Creed 3's framework, becomes a highlight, offering seamless transitions between land and sea. Whether hunting merchant ships or battling buccaneers, Black Flag's pirate-themed gameplay is unparalleled, making it not only a top Assassin's Creed game but also a premier pirate game.
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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. See All!