The 10 Best Assassin's Creed Games

Since its debut in 2007, the Assassin's Creed series has taken players on an exhilarating journey through history, from the bustling streets of Renaissance Italy to the ancient landscapes of Greece. Ubisoft's open-world saga has not only captivated gamers with its thrilling narratives but also offered a (semi) educational glimpse into various historical periods. This unique approach sets Assassin's Creed apart in a genre often dominated by fantasy realms or modern-day settings.

Despite maintaining a core structure across its 14 mainline entries, the series has evolved significantly over time. Innovations in player progression and expansive world-building have kept the franchise fresh and engaging. But with so many titles, which ones truly stand out? After much discussion and debate, we've narrowed down our top 10 mainline Assassin's Creed games.

The 10 Best Assassin's Creed Games

11 ImagesPlaying the latest game in the series? Check out our Assassin's Creed Shadows guide.

10. Assassin's Creed: Revelations

Image credit: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Montréal | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release date: November 15, 2011 | Review: Read IGN's Assassin's Creed Revelations review

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 farewell. From exhilarating zipline descents in Constantinople to memorable moments with Leonardo Da Vinci, Revelations is brimming with adventure. It serves as both a celebration of the series' early days and a glimpse into its future, allowing players to bid a heartfelt goodbye to these iconic characters.

9. Assassin's Creed Syndicate

Image credit: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Quebec | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release date: October 23, 2015 | Review: Read IGN's Assassin's Creed Syndicate review

Assassin's Creed games are renowned for their settings, and Syndicate's 19th-century Victorian London during the industrial revolution is unforgettable. Whether sneaking through factories, racing horse-drawn carriages, or confronting Jack the Ripper, the game immerses players in a tangible yet fantastical world. The unique score by Austin Wintory, featuring string-heavy melodies, and the distinct soundtracks for protagonists Jacob and Evie Frye add depth and cohesion to the experience. And let's not forget the satisfying combat with a cane, reminiscent of Bloodborne's elegance.

8. Assassin's Creed Valhalla

Image credit: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Montréal | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release date: November 10, 2020 | Review: Read IGN's Assassin's Creed Valhalla review

While not as revolutionary as Origins, Assassin's Creed Valhalla introduced significant changes. The combat system feels more impactful, and the shift from traditional side quests to world events enhances exploration. Moreover, the streamlined loot system makes rewards feel more meaningful. Eivor's story, blending historical fantasy with Norse mythology, is compelling, especially for fans of the sagas. The expansion into Thor and Odin's world offers a near-God of War experience, enriching the Assassin's Creed universe.

7. Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood

Image credit: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Montréal | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release date: November 16, 2010 | Review: Read IGN's Assassin's Creed Brotherhood review

Continuing Ezio Auditore da Firenze's saga, Brotherhood solidifies him as a beloved protagonist. Set in an expanded version of Rome, the game builds on Assassin's Creed 2's innovations, including swimming, property management, firearms, and recruit allies. Ezio's journey is filled with charm, wit, and drama, enhanced by refined combat mechanics that allow for a more aggressive playstyle. Additionally, Brotherhood introduced multiplayer, offering a fresh perspective as Templars, making it a cherished entry in the series.

6. Assassin's Creed Origins

Image credit: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Montréal | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release date: October 27, 2017 | Review: Read IGN's Assassin's Creed Origins review

Origins marked a pivotal shift, transforming Assassin’s Creed into a full-fledged open-world RPG. Beyond its historical significance, it's a standout game in its own right. The narrative follows Bayek and Aya, who evolve from seeking justice for their son to founding the Assassin's Brotherhood. The ancient Egyptian setting is a marvel to explore, and the transition to loot-based progression and action RPG combat reinvigorated the series, captivating fans anew.

5. Assassin's Creed Unity

Image credit: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Montréal | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release date: November 11, 2014 | Review: Read IGN's Assassin's Creed Unity review

Returning to the series' roots after Black Flag, Unity leveraged next-gen technology for its time, delivering stunning visuals and a near 1:1 accurate Paris. Despite a rocky launch plagued by bugs, subsequent patches have transformed it into a fan favorite. The enhanced parkour system offers fluid and elegant movement, perfect for hit-and-run tactics. The main assassination missions are some of the series' best, providing varied approaches to infiltrate and eliminate targets. Notre Dame's depiction alone makes Unity a worthwhile experience.

4. 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. It refocuses on stealth and assassinations, offering a more restrained open world and RPG elements compared to Odyssey and Valhalla. Featuring dual protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, the game provides diverse gameplay experiences. Naoe's stealth-focused toolkit and Yasuke's samurai combat enrich the exploration of the breathtaking world, which dynamically changes with the seasons.

3. Assassin's Creed Odyssey

Image credit: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Quebec | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release date: October 2, 2018 | Review: Read IGN's Assassin's Creed Odyssey review

Building on Origins' combat and RPG elements, Odyssey sets its stage in the expansive world of Ancient Greece during the Peloponnesian War. The game's stunning landscapes and engaging naval warfare stand out, while the revamped notoriety system adds tension through thrilling chases. The nation struggle system lets players influence large-scale battles, and the story, though lengthy, is supported by a charismatic protagonist. Odyssey's world is a delight to explore, even long after completing the main narrative.

2. Assassin's Creed 2

Image credit: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Montréal | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release date: November 17, 2009 | Review: Read IGN's Assassin's Creed 2 review

Assassin’s Creed 2 is often credited with fulfilling the promise of the original game. It introduced dynamic assassination missions with greater flexibility, improved combat, and the ability to swim. New catacomb missions tested parkour skills, while the upgradeable villa encouraged collecting and investing. Leonardo da Vinci's inventions kept gameplay fresh. Set in the Italian Renaissance, the game introduced Ezio Auditore da Firenze, a legendary protagonist, and intricately wove the historical and modern-day narratives, culminating in an unforgettable conclusion.

1. Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag

Image credit: Ubisoft
Developer: Ubisoft Montréal | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release date: October 19, 2013 | Review: Read IGN's Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag review

Black Flag took a bold step by focusing on a pirate protagonist, Edward Kenway, before his transformation into an assassin. The Caribbean setting became a sandbox for adventure, filled with islands to explore and treasures to uncover. The game's sailing mechanics, built upon Assassin's Creed 3's naval combat, turned nautical adventures into the highlight. Engaging in ship battles, whether through strategic maneuvers or direct boarding, was exhilarating. Black Flag not only stands as a pinnacle of the series but also as one of the best pirate games available.

Every Assassin's Creed Game Tier List

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That's our roundup of the top Assassin’s Creed games. Do you agree with our rankings, or think another title deserved a spot? Share your favorite Assassin’s Creed game in the comments below.

Upcoming Assassin's Creed Games

Looking ahead, Assassin's Creed enthusiasts have several exciting titles to anticipate. Assassin's Creed Shadows, set in Feudal Japan, has just been released, allowing players to explore the dual paths 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 announced. 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 original 2007 title to the latest console, PC, mobile, and VR projects, here's a comprehensive list of the entire Assassin's Creed series. Log in to track your progress and see which games you've played.

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Assassin's CreedUbisoft Montreal
Assassin's Creed [Mobile]Gameloft
Assassin's Creed: Altair's ChroniclesGameloft Bucharest
Assassin's Creed IIUbisoft Montreal
Assassin's Creed: BloodlinesGriptonite Games
Assassin's Creed II [Mobile]Gameloft
Assassin's Creed II: DiscoveryUbisoft
Assassin's Creed II: Battle of ForliUbisoft Montreal
Assassin's Creed II: Bonfire of the VanitiesUbisoft Montreal
Assassin's Creed II MultiplayerUbisoft