Hey there, fellow gamer! If you’re a fan of Assassin’s Creed, you already know how incredible this franchise is. From scaling the rooftops of Renaissance Italy to sailing the high seas as a pirate, the series has taken us on some of the most unforgettable adventures in gaming history. But here’s the thing—if you’ve only played the games in release order, you might be missing out on the full narrative experience.
That’s where playing Assassin’s Creed in chronological order comes in. By following the timeline of the Assassin-Templar conflict, you’ll get to see the story unfold as it was meant to be told. You’ll catch subtle references, understand character motivations better, and truly appreciate how Ubisoft crafted one of the most epic storylines in gaming.
So, if you’re ready to dive into the world of Assassins and Templars the right way, let’s break it all down. I’ll guide you through the chronological order, share why it’s worth it, and give you a sneak peek into what makes each game special—without spoiling anything. Ready? Let’s go!
Why Should You Play Assassin’s Creed in Chronological Order?
Let’s be real—Assassin’s Creed isn’t just a game series; it’s a journey. A journey through history, filled with intrigue, betrayal, and some of the most iconic moments in gaming. But here’s the catch: the games weren’t released in chronological order.
Playing them in the order they were released is fun, but it can feel a bit disjointed. You might jump from Ancient Greece to the American Revolution and then back to Renaissance Italy. It’s like reading a book out of order—you’ll still enjoy it, but you’ll miss the bigger picture.
By playing Assassin’s Creed in chronological order, you’ll:
Understand the Brotherhood’s Origins: See how the Assassins and Templars evolved over centuries.
Catch Hidden Details: Spot subtle references and connections between games.
Appreciate the Storytelling: Experience the narrative as it was meant to be told, from ancient times to the modern day.
Plus, let’s be honest—there’s something magical about starting at the very beginning and watching history unfold. It’s like being part of a secret society yourself.
The Gameplay and Features: What Makes Assassin’s Creed Special
Before we dive into the timeline, let’s talk about what makes Assassin’s Creed so unique. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, here’s what you can expect:
Stealth Meets Action
Every game blends stealth, parkour, and combat. You can silently eliminate targets, engage in full-scale battles, or disappear into a crowd like a true assassin. It’s all about choosing your approach.
Open-World Exploration
Ubisoft is known for creating historically accurate, breathtaking worlds. Whether you’re exploring Ancient Egypt, Renaissance Italy, or Victorian London, the environments feel alive and immersive.
Deep Storytelling
The Assassin-Templar conflict spans thousands of years, filled with mystery, betrayal, and hidden truths. Each game adds a new layer to the overarching narrative.
Historical Figures and Events
You’ll meet famous figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Cleopatra, and George Washington. It’s like stepping into a history book—but way more exciting.
Alright, now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s break down the Assassin’s Creed timeline!
The Assassin’s Creed Timeline (Chronological Order)
Here’s the full timeline of how to play Assassin’s Creed in chronological order. I’ll give you a quick overview of each game’s setting and story—without spoilers, of course.
1. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey (431–422 BCE)
Set in Ancient Greece, Odyssey is the earliest game in the timeline. You play as a Spartan mercenary caught in the battle between the Assassins and Templars’ predecessors. With a massive open world, naval combat, and deep RPG mechanics, it’s one of the most expansive Assassin’s Creed experiences.
2. Assassin’s Creed Origins (49–44 BCE)
Next up is Origins, set in Ancient Egypt. This game follows Bayek of Siwa, the founder of the Hidden Ones (the precursor to the Assassins). It introduces RPG mechanics, a new combat system, and a stunning Egyptian world to explore.
3. Assassin’s Creed Mirage (9th Century Baghdad)
Mirage takes us to 9th-century Baghdad and follows Basim Ibn Ishaq, an important figure in the overall timeline. It’s a return to classic Assassin’s Creed gameplay, with a focus on stealth, parkour, and a tight narrative.
4. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla (872–878 CE)
In Valhalla, you play as Eivor, a Viking warrior caught in the battle between the Hidden Ones and the Order of the Ancients. The game blends brutal combat, Norse mythology, and classic Assassin’s Creed mechanics.
5. Assassin’s Creed (1191 CE)
The game that started it all! This entry follows Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad, a member of the Assassins during the Third Crusade. It introduces the stealth-action formula and a deep, mysterious plot. (Download Assassin’s Creed 1-Remastered)
6. Assassin’s Creed II (1476–1499 CE)
Arguably the best game in the franchise, Assassin’s Creed II follows Ezio Auditore da Firenze, an Assassin in Renaissance Italy. This game improved parkour, combat, and storytelling, making it a fan favorite.
7. Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood (1499–1507 CE)
Ezio’s journey continues in Brotherhood, where he rebuilds the Brotherhood in Rome. The game introduced multiplayer, advanced parkour mechanics, and the ability to recruit assassins.
8. Assassin’s Creed Revelations (1511–1512 CE)
Ezio’s final chapter takes him to Constantinople to uncover Altaïr’s secrets. The game introduced bomb crafting, an improved hook blade, and a powerful ending that ties Ezio and Altaïr’s stories together.
9. Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag (1715–1722 CE)
Now we enter the Golden Age of Piracy! Black Flag follows Edward Kenway, a pirate who gets tangled in the Assassin-Templar conflict. With ship combat, underwater exploration, and an incredible story, this game is a must-play.
10. Assassin’s Creed Rogue (1752–1776 CE)
Rogue follows Shay Cormac, an Assassin-turned-Templar. The game flips the script, letting you see the Templars’ perspective. It connects Black Flag and Assassin’s Creed III beautifully.
11. Assassin’s Creed III (1754–1783 CE)
Set during the American Revolution, this game follows Connor Kenway, a half-Mohawk Assassin. It features a massive open-world wilderness, dynamic weather, and improved combat mechanics.
12. Assassin’s Creed Unity (1789–1794 CE)
Welcome to Revolutionary France! Unity follows Arno Dorian, an Assassin caught in the chaos of the French Revolution. With stunning graphics, co-op multiplayer, and advanced parkour, Unity stands out.
13. Assassin’s Creed Syndicate (1868 CE)
Set during the Industrial Revolution, Syndicate follows Jacob and Evie Frye, twin Assassins fighting against the Templars in London. This game introduced grappling hooks, carriages, and gang warfare.
14. Assassin’s Creed: Modern-Day Storyline (Multiple Games)
Throughout the series, there’s a modern-day storyline involving the Assassins and Abstergo (modern-day Templars). If you follow the games in this order, you’ll see how the modern-day struggle evolves.
Remember that these are the main series in the Assassin’s Creed franchise. You will find other Assassin’s Creed games for Android, iOS, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, Stadia, Amazon Luna, iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch, Wii, OS X, and even Windows OS.
But keep in mind, that some of these are spin-offs, side stories, or smaller entries that don’t add much to the main storyline. However, playing them in this order will give you a fresh perspective and a whole new way to experience the Assassin’s Creed universe!
And if you’ve never played Assassin’s Creed in chronological order, you’re in for a treat. Not only you will witness how the Assassin-Templar conflict evolved over centuries, but you’ll also gain a deeper appreciation for the historical settings, rich storytelling, and the evolution of parkour, stealth, and combat mechanics.
So, are you ready to dive into the world of Assassins and Templars the way it was meant to be played? Grab your hidden blade and start your journey today!
Now that you know how to play Assassin’s Creed in chronological order, which game are you most excited to revisit? Let’s talk in the comments!
