Assassin's Creed Chronological: A Comprehensive Guide To The Series Timeline

Assassin's Creed is a beloved video game franchise that has captivated millions of players around the globe with its rich narratives and historical settings. Understanding the chronological timeline of the series is essential for both new and veteran players who want to fully appreciate the intricate stories woven throughout its many titles. In this article, we will explore the Assassin's Creed chronological timeline, delve into the key events of each game, and highlight the overarching themes that connect them.

The Assassin's Creed series, developed by Ubisoft, first debuted in 2007 and has since expanded into numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations across various media. With a unique blend of historical fiction and science fiction, the franchise has created a complex narrative that spans centuries and continents. This article aims to provide a detailed breakdown of the timeline, making it easier for players to navigate the lore and understand the relationships between different characters and events.

Throughout this guide, we will not only cover the mainline titles but also the spin-offs and mobile games that contribute to the larger narrative. By the end, you will have a clear understanding of the Assassin's Creed chronological order and how each installment fits into the overall story of the Assassins and Templars.

Table of Contents

• 1. The Origins of Assassin's Creed: The First Civilization
• 2. Assassin's Creed I: The Start of the Brotherhood
• 3. Assassin's Creed II: The Rise of Ezio Auditore
• 4. Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood and Revelations
• 5. Assassin's Creed III: The American Revolution
• 6. Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag and the Golden Age of Piracy
• 7. Assassin's Creed: Rogue and Unity
• 8. The Modern Era: Assassin's Creed Origins, Odyssey, and Valhalla

1. The Origins of Assassin's Creed: The First Civilization

Before we dive into the main titles, it's essential to understand the lore surrounding the First Civilization, an ancient race that created powerful artifacts known as Pieces of Eden. These artifacts play a crucial role in shaping the conflict between the Assassins and the Templars throughout the series. The First Civilization is often referenced in various games, providing a backdrop for the ongoing struggle for control over these powerful relics.

2. Assassin's Creed I: The Start of the Brotherhood

Released in 2007, the first Assassin's Creed game introduces players to Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad, a skilled Assassin during the Third Crusade. The game's narrative revolves around the conflict between the Assassins and the Templars, with Altaïr tasked with eliminating key targets to protect the peace.

• Setting: 1191 AD, during the Crusades in the Holy Land.
• Main Character: Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad.
• Key Themes: Freedom, control, and the moral ambiguity of power.

3. Assassin's Creed II: The Rise of Ezio Auditore

Assassin's Creed II, released in 2009, marks the introduction of Ezio Auditore da Firenze, one of the franchise's most beloved characters. Set in Renaissance Italy, the game explores Ezio's journey from a carefree nobleman to a skilled Assassin seeking revenge for his family's murder.

• Setting: 1476-1499 AD, primarily in Florence, Venice, and Rome.
• Main Character: Ezio Auditore da Firenze.
• Key Themes: Family, vengeance, and the pursuit of knowledge.

4. Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood and Revelations

Following the success of Assassin's Creed II, Brotherhood (2010) and Revelations (2011) continue Ezio's story. Brotherhood introduces the concept of recruiting and training new Assassins, while Revelations delves into Altair's past and the mysteries of the First Civilization.

• Setting: Brotherhood takes place in Rome, while Revelations explores Constantinople.
• Main Character: Ezio Auditore and Altair Ibn-La'Ahad.
• Key Themes: Brotherhood, legacy, and the quest for truth.

5. Assassin's Creed III: The American Revolution

Released in 2012, Assassin's Creed III shifts the focus to the American Revolution and introduces Connor Kenway, a half-Mohawk, half-British Assassin. The game explores the impact of the Revolution on the Assassins' struggle against the Templars.

• Setting: 1754-1783 AD, during the American Revolutionary War.
• Main Character: Connor Kenway (Ratonhnhaké:ton).
• Key Themes: Freedom, loyalty, and the cost of independence.

6. Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag and the Golden Age of Piracy

Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag, released in 2013, takes players to the Caribbean during the Golden Age of Piracy. The game follows Edward Kenway, a pirate and Assassin, as he navigates the conflict between the Assassins and Templars while seeking fortune and glory.

• Setting: 1715-1722 AD, primarily in the Caribbean.
• Main Character: Edward Kenway.
• Key Themes: Freedom, adventure, and the moral complexities of piracy.

7. Assassin's Creed: Rogue and Unity

In 2014, Assassin's Creed: Rogue and Unity were released, offering different perspectives on the conflict. Rogue follows Shay Patrick Cormac, an Assassin-turned-Templar during the Seven Years' War, while Unity is set during the French Revolution and features Arno Dorian, a young man seeking redemption.

• Setting: Rogue is set in North America, while Unity takes place in Paris.
• Main Characters: Shay Patrick Cormac (Rogue) and Arno Dorian (Unity).
• Key Themes: Betrayal, redemption, and the struggle for social justice.

8. The Modern Era: Assassin's Creed Origins, Odyssey, and Valhalla

The recent entries in the franchise, including Assassin's Creed Origins (2017), Odyssey (2018), and Valhalla (2020), have expanded the timeline further back into ancient history and explored new gameplay mechanics. Origins focuses on the founding of the Assassin Brotherhood in Ancient Egypt, while Odyssey takes players to Ancient Greece and emphasizes player choice. Valhalla immerses players in the Viking Age, blending history with Norse mythology.

• Setting: Origins in Ancient Egypt, Odyssey in Ancient Greece, Valhalla in Viking Age England and Norway.
• Main Characters: Bayek (Origins), Kassandra/Alexios (Odyssey), Eivor (Valhalla).
• Key Themes: Identity, heritage, and the evolution of the Assassin and Templar conflict.

Conclusion

In summary, the Assassin's Creed chronological timeline offers a rich tapestry of stories that span centuries and cultures. From the origins of the Assassins to the complexities of modern gameplay, each title contributes to the overarching narrative of freedom versus control. As the series continues to evolve, players are invited to engage with its history and explore the moral dilemmas faced by its characters.

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Final Thoughts

Thank you for reading our comprehensive guide to the Assassin's Creed chronological timeline. We hope this article has enhanced your understanding of the series and inspired you to explore its vast world further. We look forward to seeing you again soon!