Home 
Navigation
The Assassin's Creed series has been captivating players with its historical adventures since its inception in 2007. From the bustling streets of Renaissance Italy to the ancient ruins of Greece, Ubisoft's open-world saga has consistently delivered immersive experiences that blend historical settings with thrilling narratives. This unique approach sets the series apart, offering players a semi-educational journey through various eras, unlike many of its contemporaries that often focus on fantasy or modern settings.
While the core mechanics of Assassin's Creed have remained consistent across its 14 mainline entries, the series has evolved significantly. Changes in player progression, expansive worlds, and new gameplay mechanics have kept the franchise fresh and engaging.
Determining the best Assassin's Creed games is no easy task. After thorough discussions and debates, we've compiled a list of the top 10 mainline entries in the series. Here's our ranking:
The 10 Best Assassin's Creed Games
11 Images
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 journeys of Altair Ibn-La-Ahad and Ezio Auditore. Despite some less impactful additions like the Den Defense mode, the game delivers a thrilling send-off. From thrilling zipline descents in Constantinople to memorable encounters with Leonardo Da Vinci, Revelations is packed with exciting adventures. It serves as both a celebration of the series' past and a glimpse into its future, allowing players to bid farewell to two iconic characters after witnessing their growth and adventures.
Assassin's Creed Syndicate
Assassin's Creed Syndicate stands out with its setting in 19th-century Victorian London amidst industrialization. The game's memorable activities, such as infiltrating factories, racing horse-drawn carriages, and confronting Jack the Ripper, ground it in a vivid historical context. The unique soundtrack by Austin Wintory and distinct themes for protagonists Jacob and Evie Frye enhance the immersive experience. Additionally, the game's combat, especially with a cane, is reminiscent of the finesse seen in games like Bloodborne.
Assassin's Creed Valhalla
Assassin's Creed Valhalla introduces substantial changes without reinventing the wheel. The combat is more impactful, and the shift from traditional side quests to world events enhances exploration. The game also manages loot more effectively, making rewards feel more valuable. While Eivor may not be the most beloved protagonist, the narrative weaves historical fantasy with Norse mythology compellingly. The game's expansion into Thor and Odin's world offers an experience akin to God of War, delighting fans of Norse mythology.
Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood
Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood continues Ezio Auditore's story, solidifying his status as a beloved protagonist. The game expands on the mechanics introduced in Assassin's Creed 2, such as swimming, property management, and recruiting allies, set against the backdrop of an expanded Rome. Its charm, wit, and drama, combined with refined combat, allow players to embrace the role of an aggressive assassin. Brotherhood also introduced multiplayer, adding a competitive edge to the series.
Assassin's Creed Origins
Origins marks a pivotal shift in the series, transforming it into an open-world RPG with vast scope. The compelling story of Bayek and Aya, set against the backdrop of ancient Egypt, is a highlight. Their quest for justice and the founding of the Assassin's Brotherhood captivate players. The shift to loot-based progression and RPG-style combat reinvigorated the series, offering a fresh and engaging experience.
Assassin's Creed Unity
Assassin's Creed Unity returns to the series' roots with a focus on stealth and assassination. As the first AC game released exclusively on next-gen consoles, it boasts impressive graphics and a detailed recreation of Paris. Despite a rocky launch with numerous bugs, subsequent patches have transformed it into a fan favorite. Its fluid parkour and diverse assassination missions, set against the backdrop of Notre Dame, make Unity a standout title.
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-awaited Feudal Japan, Assassin’s Creed Shadows meets the high expectations set by fans. The game refocuses on stealth and assassination, offering a more balanced open-world experience compared to its predecessors. Featuring dual protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, the game allows players to experience both stealth and samurai combat. The dynamic landscapes and seasonal changes enhance the exploration of this meticulously crafted world.
Assassin's Creed Odyssey
Assassin's Creed Odyssey expands on the RPG elements introduced in Origins, set against the backdrop of Ancient Greece during the Peloponnesian War. The game's vast world is filled with stunning vistas and engaging naval warfare. Its notoriety system and nation struggle mechanics add tension and strategic depth. The charismatic protagonist and diverse side quests make Odyssey a rich and immersive experience.
Assassin's Creed 2
Assassin's Creed 2 not only refined the series' formula but also introduced Ezio Auditore, one of the most iconic protagonists in gaming. The game's dynamic assassination missions, enhanced mobility, and the introduction of catacomb missions and homebase upgrades added depth and engagement. Set during the Italian Renaissance, AC2 seamlessly blends historical elements with a compelling narrative, culminating in a memorable confrontation with the Pope and a mystical connection to the present-day storyline.
Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag
Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag introduces a refreshing twist with its pirate protagonist, Edward Kenway. The Caribbean serves as a vibrant sandbox, filled with islands to explore and treasures to uncover. The game's naval combat and seamless transitions between land and sea make it a standout title. Whether engaging in ship battles or exploring the pirate life, Black Flag offers an unparalleled experience, cementing its place as both a top Assassin's Creed game and one of the best pirate games ever made.
### Every Assassin's Creed Game Tier ListEvery Assassin's Creed Game Tier List
You may also like: The Best Games Like Assassin's Creed.
That concludes our list of the top Assassin’s Creed games. Do you agree with the rankings, or do you believe another game should have made the cut? Share your favorite Assassin’s Creed game in the comments.
Upcoming Assassin's Creed Games
If you're eager for more Assassin's Creed adventures, keep an eye on upcoming releases. Assassin's Creed Shadows, set in Feudal Japan, is now available and offers 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 experience, bringing fresh ideas to the series.
Assassin's Creed: The Complete Playlist
From the debut in 2007 to the upcoming projects on consoles, PC, mobile, and VR, here is the complete Assassin's Creed series list. Log in to track which games you've played.
See All
Latest Articles
Latest Games
