Top 10 Assassin's Creed Games Ranked

Since its inception in 2007, the Assassin's Creed series has taken players on a thrilling journey through history, from Renaissance Italy to Ancient Greece. Ubisoft's commitment to exploring diverse historical settings has set the series apart, offering a unique blend of action and education that immerses players in the past. Unlike many of its contemporaries, which often transport us to fantastical realms or contemporary urban landscapes, Assassin's Creed provides a window into historical epochs, enriching each game with a backdrop of real-world events and cultures.

While the core elements of Assassin's Creed have remained consistent across its 14 mainline entries, the series has evolved significantly. Ubisoft has continuously refined gameplay mechanics, expanded world-building, and introduced innovative approaches to player progression, keeping the franchise fresh and engaging.

Choosing the best Assassin's Creed games is no easy task, but after careful consideration, we've curated a list of the top 10 mainline entries. So, let's dive into our picks for the top Assassin's Creed experiences.

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

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

Assassin’s Creed: Revelations provided a compelling conclusion to the stories of Altair Ibn-La-Ahad and Ezio Auditore. Despite some less impactful features like Den Defense mode, the game delivered a thrilling and memorable farewell. From exhilarating zipline descents in Constantinople to interactions with Leonardo Da Vinci, Revelations was brimming with captivating adventures. It served as both a celebration of the series' early days and a precursor to future developments, allowing fans to bid adieu to the iconic protagonists after witnessing their transformative journeys.

9. Assassin's Creed Syndicate

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

The setting of Assassin's Creed Syndicate is as integral to its identity as its protagonists. The game's Victorian London, pulsating with the energy of the Industrial Revolution, stands out as one of the series' most memorable locales. Whether you're stealthily navigating factories, racing through streets in horse-drawn carriages, or confronting the notorious Jack the Ripper, Syndicate grounds its narrative in a vivid, yet fantastical, historical context. The unique string-heavy score by Austin Wintory, coupled with distinct soundtracks for protagonists Jacob and Evie Frye, further enhances the game's immersive atmosphere. Additionally, the effective cane combat adds a unique flair reminiscent of Bloodborne.

8. Assassin's Creed Valhalla

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

While Assassin's Creed Valhalla didn't revolutionize the series like Origins, it made significant strides in refining gameplay. The combat system feels weightier and more impactful, and the introduction of world events in place of traditional side quests encourages more organic exploration. The game also streamlined the overwhelming loot system, making rewards more meaningful. Eivor's story, whether you choose the male or female version, skillfully blends historical fantasy with Norse mythology. The expansive world of Thor and Odin in the game's length expansion adds a dimension that feels akin to God of War, offering fans of Norse lore a rich narrative tapestry.

7. Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood

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

Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood further solidified Ezio Auditore da Firenze as a beloved protagonist. Set in an expanded version of Rome, the game builds upon the innovations introduced in Assassin's Creed 2, such as swimming, property management, and the use of firearms and recruitable allies. This installment is rich with charm, wit, and drama, offering updated combat that allowed players to embrace their inner aggressive assassin. It also marked the series' first foray into multiplayer, letting players embody Templars and compete against friends. Though it didn't advance the formula as much as its predecessor, Brotherhood remains a cherished entry in the franchise.

6. Assassin's Creed Origins

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

Assassin's Creed Origins was a transformative chapter for the series, transitioning from a stealth-focused action-adventure to a vast open-world RPG. Its impact on the franchise's direction cannot be overstated, but it also stands alone as an exceptional game. The story of Bayek and Aya, who seek justice for their murdered son and ultimately lay the groundwork for the Assassin's Brotherhood, is deeply engaging. The ancient Egyptian setting is breathtaking, and while subsequent games would refine certain mechanics, Origins' shift to loot-based progression and action RPG combat reinvigorated the series, capturing the hearts of fans anew.

5. Assassin's Creed Unity

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Developer: 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' roots after the pirate-themed escapades of Black Flag. As the first entry to launch exclusively on next-gen consoles and PC, Unity showcased stunning graphics and detailed recreations of Paris. Though its launch was marred by bugs and glitches, subsequent patches transformed it into a fan favorite. Unity's enhanced movement system delivered some of the most fluid parkour in the series, perfect for hit-and-run tactics. Its assassination missions are among the best, offering numerous infiltration methods. The detailed portrayal of Notre Dame alone makes Unity a visual treat.

4. Assassin's Creed Shadows

Developer: Ubisoft Quebec | Publisher: Ubisoft | Release date: March 20, 2025 | Review: Read IGN's Assassin's Creed Shadows review

Assassin's Creed Shadows fulfilled the long-standing demand for a game set in Feudal Japan during the Sengoku period. It refocused the series on stealth and infiltration, balancing the expansive world and RPG elements more carefully than its predecessors. Featuring two playable protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, Shadows offers diverse gameplay experiences. Naoe's stealth toolkit, including a grappling hook and climbing abilities, allows for immersive exploration of the game's beautifully dynamic world, which changes with the seasons. Yasuke's combat prowess captures the samurai fantasy, making Shadows a well-rounded and engaging addition to the series.

3. Assassin's Creed Odyssey

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

Assassin's Creed Odyssey built upon the combat and RPG elements introduced in Origins, setting them against the backdrop of Ancient Greece during the Peloponnesian War. The game's vast, vibrant world, both on land and at sea, offers some of the most breathtaking vistas in the series. The revamped notoriety system and nation struggle mechanics create tense, thrilling gameplay, while the story, though lengthy, is engaging and supported by a charismatic protagonist. Even after completing the main campaign, Odyssey's world remains ripe for exploration and discovery.

2. Assassin's Creed 2

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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 realizing the full potential of the series. It introduced dynamic assassination missions, improved combat and mobility (including swimming), and engaging catacomb missions that tested players' parkour skills. The upgradeable villa added depth to collectible hunting, and new weapons from Leonardo da Vinci kept gameplay fresh. Set in the Italian Renaissance, the game introduced Ezio Auditore da Firenze, an iconic protagonist, and expanded the narrative bridge between the past and present. The unforgettable climax, involving a confrontation with the Pope and a mystical revelation, cemented Assassin's Creed 2 as a landmark entry.

1. Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag

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

Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag distinguished itself by focusing on a pirate protagonist, Edward Kenway, before his assassin identity. The Caribbean setting transformed into a sandbox playground filled with islands to explore and treasures to uncover. The game's upgrade system, centered around hunting and harpooning, turned these activities into enjoyable pursuits. Building on the naval combat introduced in Assassin's Creed 3, Black Flag made sailing and ship battles the highlight of the experience. Whether attacking merchant ships or engaging in naval warfare, the seamless transitions between land and sea offered players unparalleled freedom and excitement. Black Flag not only stands out within the Assassin's Creed series but also ranks among the best pirate games ever made.

Every Assassin's Creed Game Tier List

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And there you have it! Those are our top Assassin’s Creed games. Disagree with the ranking? Think another entry should have been on the list? Let us know your favorite Assassin’s Creed in the comments.

Upcoming Assassin's Creed Games

If you're eager for what's next in the Assassin's Creed universe, several titles are on the horizon. Assassin's Creed Shadows has recently been released, allowing players to navigate the dual paths of a shinobi and samurai in Feudal Japan. Assassin's Creed Jade, set in ancient China, is slated for mobile devices, though a release date remains unconfirmed. For those craving more, Assassin's Creed: Codename Hexe promises a mysterious and occult-themed adventure, poised to introduce fresh elements to the series.

Assassin's Creed: The Complete Playlist

From the 2007 debut to the latest console, PC, mobile, and VR projects, here is the comprehensive list of the entire Assassin's Creed series. Log in to track 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