Despite being fundamentally about stealth and eliminating foes, Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed has seen more transformations than many other long-standing franchises, with a mix of cherished innovations and some bizarre ventures. Ubisoft was quick to explore the mobile gaming market, experimented with browser games, and continuously redefined what Assassin’s Creed could be, determining which elements were indispensable and which could be left behind.
Over nearly two decades and more than 20 titles, the franchise has proven that almost anything is possible as long as the main character can leap from high places and engage with the series’ clandestine factions — either the Assassins or the Templars. This flexibility is what keeps the series relevant and engaging.
While many of these experiments were not well-received by critics and fans alike, it’s worth appreciating Ubisoft’s willingness to innovate in an industry that often shuns risk. The Assassin’s Creed series has a legacy that transcends mere stealth gameplay; its frequent changes in setting, protagonists, and core concepts distinguish it from other franchises.
The latest addition, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, exemplifies this adaptability, blending the stealth-focused elements of earlier titles with the more modern trend of heavy combat. However, the question remains: where does it stand among the franchise’s extensive catalog?
Assessing the finest Assassin’s Creed game from a staggering list of over 20 titles, expansions, sequels, and unique projects is no easy feat. To arrive at a ranking, Rolling Stone scrutinized the premise of each game, evaluated their contributions to the series, and analyzed how effectively Ubisoft implemented its vision.
This article presents a ranking of every Assassin’s Creed game from least impressive to most outstanding.
