Top 10 Assassin's Creed Games Ranked

The Assassin's Creed series has been taking us on historical adventures since its inception in 2007. From the bustling streets of Renaissance Italy to the ancient wonders of Greece, Ubisoft's open-world saga has offered players a diverse range of settings and historical contexts, making each game a unique blend of entertainment and education. This distinctive approach sets the series apart from its peers, which often transport us to fantasy realms or modern urban landscapes.

While the core elements of Assassin's Creed have remained consistent across its 14 mainline entries, the series has evolved significantly over the years. It has introduced innovative mechanics in player progression and expanded its expansive worlds, keeping the gameplay fresh and engaging.

Choosing the best Assassin's Creed games is no easy feat. After extensive discussion and debate, we've narrowed it down to the top 10 mainline entries that we believe stand out in the series.

So, 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 serves as a poignant conclusion to the journeys of Altair Ibn-La-Ahad and Ezio Auditore. Despite some less memorable features like the Den Defense mode, the game offers thrilling adventures, from exhilarating zipline descents in Constantinople to encounters with Leonardo Da Vinci. Revelations not only celebrates the legacy of these iconic characters but also hints at the future direction of the series.

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 Syndicate stands out with its setting in 19th-century Victorian London, a backdrop that vividly captures the era's industrialization. The game's unique elements include sneaking through factories, racing carriages, and confronting Jack the Ripper, creating a tangible yet fantastical world. The score by Austin Wintory, featuring distinct themes for protagonists Jacob and Evie Frye, adds a special touch to the immersive experience. Additionally, the game's combat system allows for effective use of a cane, a feature reminiscent of Bloodborne.

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 may not have revolutionized the series as Origins did, it introduced significant enhancements. The combat feels more substantial, and traditional side quests have been replaced by world events, enhancing the natural flow of exploration. The game also streamlined the loot system, making rewards feel more meaningful. Eivor's story blends historical fantasy with Norse mythology in a captivating way, culminating in an expansive expansion that rivals the depth of God of War.

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 deepens the narrative of Ezio Auditore da Firenze, cementing his status as a beloved protagonist. The game shifts focus to an expanded Rome and introduces mechanics like swimming, property management, and recruitable allies, enhancing the gameplay experience. The introduction of multiplayer, allowing players to experience the game from the Templars' perspective, was a significant addition. Brotherhood may not have pushed the boundaries as much as its predecessor, but it remains a cherished entry in the series.

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

Assassin's Creed Origins marked a pivotal shift for the series, transitioning from a stealth-based action-adventure to a full-fledged open-world RPG. Set in ancient Egypt, the game's central story follows Bayek and Aya, whose quest for justice leads to the formation of the Assassin's Brotherhood. The game's expansive world, combined with its loot-based progression and action RPG combat, revitalized the series and set a new standard for future entries.

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 returned to the series' roots with a focus on stealth and assassination. Despite a rocky launch marred by bugs and glitches, subsequent patches transformed Unity into a fan favorite. The game's enhanced movement system delivered the smoothest parkour in the series, and its assassination missions offered multiple infiltration options. The detailed recreation of Paris, including landmarks like Notre Dame, adds to the game's allure.

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, Assassin's Creed Shadows revitalizes the series by focusing on stealth and assassination. The game features two playable protagonists: Naoe, who excels in stealth, and Yasuke, a formidable samurai. The open world, while expansive, is more restrained than in previous entries, resulting in a balanced experience. The dynamic landscapes that change with the seasons make Shadows a visually stunning addition to the series.

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' RPG elements, 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. The revamped notoriety system adds tension to the gameplay, while the nation struggle system allows for large-scale battles. With a compelling story and charismatic protagonist, 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 set the standard for the series, proving the potential of the original concept. It introduced more dynamic assassination missions, improved combat and mobility, and new elements like catacomb missions and an upgradeable villa. Set during the Italian Renaissance, the game introduced the iconic protagonist Ezio Auditore da Firenze, whose story intertwined with the present-day narrative in a memorable way.

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

Assassin's Creed 4: Black Flag introduced a fresh perspective with a protagonist who was a pirate first and an assassin second. Set in the Caribbean, the game offers a sandbox playground filled with treasure and activities. The naval combat, built upon the foundation laid by Assassin's Creed 3, became the highlight of the game. Black Flag not only stands as one of the best entries in the series but also as a top pirate game, offering an immersive experience on the high seas.

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 to see what's next for Assassin's Creed, keep an eye on several upcoming titles. Assassin's Creed Shadows, set in Feudal Japan, has just been released, offering a dual narrative of a shinobi and samurai. Assassin's Creed Jade, set in ancient China, is in development for mobile devices, though its release date remains unconfirmed. Additionally, Assassin's Creed: Codename Hexe promises a mysterious and occult-themed adventure, bringing fresh ideas to the series.

Assassin's Creed: The Complete Playlist

From the debut title in 2007 to the upcoming console, PC, mobile, and VR projects, here is the entire Assassin's Creed series in one list. 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