Top 10 Assassin's Creed Games Ranked

The Assassin's Creed series has captivated players with its historical journeys since its inception in 2007. Ubisoft's commitment to exploring diverse historical settings, from Renaissance Italy to Ancient Greece, has not only provided thrilling adventures but also offered an engaging (semi) educational experience. This unique blend of history and conspiracy sets the series apart from its genre peers, which often focus on fantasy realms or contemporary urban landscapes.

While the core mechanics of Assassin's Creed have remained consistent through its 14 mainline entries, the series has evolved significantly, incorporating innovative player progression systems and ever-expanding worlds.

Determining the best Assassin's Creed games is no easy feat. After extensive discussion and debate, we've compiled a list of the top 10 mainline entries in the series. Let's dive into our top 10 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: UbisoftDeveloper: 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 remains a thrilling and memorable finale. From exhilarating zipline descents in Constantinople to encounters with Leonardo Da Vinci, Revelations is filled with fascinating adventures.

This final chapter serves as both a celebration of the series' early days and a precursor to future developments. It allows players to bid farewell to two iconic characters, marking the end of an era for Assassin’s Creed.

9. Assassin's Creed Syndicate

Image credit: UbisoftDeveloper: 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, amidst the throes of industrialization, is particularly memorable. The game offers immersive experiences like infiltrating factories, racing horse-drawn carriages, and even confronting Jack the Ripper, grounding the narrative in a vivid, yet fantastical, world.

The unique string-heavy score by Journey composer Austin Wintory further enhances the game's atmosphere, with distinct soundtracks for protagonists Jacob and Evie Frye. This, along with other meticulous details, contributes to Syndicate's cohesive world. Additionally, the game's combat system, allowing players to wield a cane effectively, adds to its appeal.

8. Assassin's Creed Valhalla

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

While Assassin's Creed Valhalla doesn't reinvent the series like Origins did, it introduces substantial changes. The combat feels more weighty and impactful, traditional side quests are replaced by world events for a more organic exploration experience, and the loot system is streamlined, making rewards feel more significant.

Eivor's story, whether played as male or female, is engaging and blends historical fantasy with Norse mythology seamlessly. Fans of Norse lore are in for a treat, as the sagas play a crucial role in the main campaign, complemented by an expansive expansion set in the realm of Thor and Odin, akin to a God of War experience.

7. Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood

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

Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood continues Ezio Auditore da Firenze's saga, solidifying him as a beloved protagonist. Set in an expanded Rome and its countryside, the game builds upon Assassin’s Creed 2's mechanics, introducing swimming, property management, firearms, and recruitable allies. This chapter is brimming with charm, wit, and drama, and the updated combat allows players to embrace a more aggressive assassin role.

Notably, Brotherhood introduced multiplayer to the series, letting players experience the Templar perspective and compete with friends. While it may not have pushed the boundaries as much as its predecessor, it remains a cherished entry.

6. Assassin's Creed Origins

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

Origins is a pivotal point in the series, transforming Assassin’s Creed into a full-fledged open-world RPG. Yet, beyond its historical significance, it stands out as an excellent game in its own right. The compelling story of Bayek and Aya, who seek justice for their son and ultimately found the Assassin’s Brotherhood, is set against the breathtaking backdrop of ancient Egypt.

The shift to a loot-based progression and action RPG combat style reinvigorated the series, offering fans a fresh and engaging experience.

5. Assassin's Creed Unity

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

Assassin’s Creed Unity marked a return to the series' original tone after the pirate-themed Black Flag. As the first AC game exclusive to next-gen consoles, it showcased stunning graphics and a detailed recreation of Paris. Despite a rocky launch plagued by bugs and an overly crowded map, subsequent patches have elevated Unity to a fan favorite.

Unity's enhanced movement system offers the most fluid parkour in the series, facilitating hit-and-run tactics. Its assassination missions are among the best, offering multiple infiltration options. The detailed representation of Notre Dame 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 during the Sengoku period, Assassin’s Creed Shadows successfully refocuses the series on stealth and assassination. While maintaining an expansive world, it offers a more balanced experience than its predecessors, Odyssey and Valhalla.

With dual protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, Shadows caters to different playstyles. Naoe excels in stealth, while Yasuke embodies the samurai spirit. Exploring the beautifully crafted world, with its dynamic seasonal changes, is a highlight, especially with Naoe's climbing and grappling hook abilities.

3. Assassin's Creed Odyssey

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

Assassin's Creed Odyssey expands on Origins' combat and RPG elements, set against the backdrop of Ancient Greece during the Peloponnesian War. The game's vast and vibrant world, both on land and sea, is a visual treat, with engaging naval warfare.

The revamped notoriety system adds tension, as players are hunted across the landscape. The nation struggle system allows for large-scale battles, and the story, while lengthy, is supported by a charismatic protagonist and intriguing side quests. Even after completion, the world of Odyssey offers endless exploration and discovery.

2. Assassin's Creed 2

Image credit: UbisoftDeveloper: 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 realizing the series' potential. It introduced dynamic assassination missions with more flexible approaches, enhanced combat and mobility, including swimming, and new catacomb missions to test parkour skills.

Set during the Italian Renaissance, the game introduced Ezio Auditore da Firenze, one of the series' most iconic protagonists. The narrative weaves the past and present together in an unforgettable way, culminating in a dramatic confrontation with the Pope and a mystical connection to the present-day storyline.

1. Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag

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

Black Flag introduced a fresh take on the series by focusing on pirate protagonist Edward Kenway. The Caribbean setting serves as a sandbox playground, filled with islands to explore, treasures to find, and an engaging upgrade system that makes hunting and harpooning enjoyable.

The game elevates naval combat to new heights, making it a central and thrilling aspect of gameplay. Whether attacking merchant ships or battling buccaneers, the seamless transition between land and sea offers players unparalleled freedom. Black Flag not only stands as one of the best Assassin’s Creed games but also one of the greatest pirate games ever made.

Every Assassin's Creed Game Tier List

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And that concludes our list of the top Assassin’s Creed games. If you disagree with our rankings or believe another game deserves a spot, share your thoughts in the comments.

Upcoming Assassin's Creed Games

Looking ahead, Assassin's Creed fans have several exciting titles to anticipate. Assassin's Creed Shadows has recently been released, offering a dual perspective of a shinobi and samurai in Feudal Japan. Assassin's Creed Jade, set in ancient China, is in development for mobile devices, though a release date remains unconfirmed. Additionally, Assassin's Creed: Codename Hexe promises a mysterious and occult-themed adventure that will bring fresh ideas to the series.

Assassin's Creed: The Complete Playlist

From the series' debut in 2007 to upcoming projects across consoles, PC, mobile, and VR, here's a comprehensive list of every Assassin's Creed game. Log in to track your progress and see which ones you've played. See AllAssassin's CreedUbisoft MontrealAssassin's Creed [Mobile]GameloftAssassin's Creed: Altair's ChroniclesGameloft BucharestAssassin's Creed IIUbisoft MontrealAssassin's Creed: BloodlinesGriptonite GamesAssassin's Creed II [Mobile]GameloftAssassin's Creed II: DiscoveryUbisoftAssassin's Creed II: Battle of ForliUbisoft MontrealAssassin's Creed II: Bonfire of the VanitiesUbisoft MontrealAssassin's Creed II MultiplayerUbisoft