The “Assassin’s Creed” franchise has long been celebrated for its captivating blend of history, action, and stealth gameplay. Among its diverse entries, “Assassin’s Creed Odyssey” stands as a unique gem, transporting players to the intriguing setting of ancient Greece. In this blog, we will embark on a comprehensive journey into the world of “Assassin’s Creed Odyssey,” exploring its historical backdrop, the absence of the traditional Assassin and Templar orders, and the freedom of choice it offers to players, including the option for stealth gameplay.
Key Information about “Assassin’s Creed Odyssey”
| Title | Release Year | Setting | Gameplay Focus |
| Assassin’s Creed Odyssey | 2018 | Ancient Greece (431 B.C.–422 B.C.) | Action RPG with optional stealth elements |
The Historical Tapestry of Ancient Greece
“Assassin’s Creed Odyssey” beckons players to a time when Greece was divided by war, a period between 431 B.C. and 422 B.C.[6]. The game meticulously recreates this rich historical tapestry, allowing players to immerse themselves in the cultural and political intricacies of the era.
Historical Accuracy
Ubisoft Quebec, the developer of “Odyssey,” took great care in capturing the essence of ancient Greece. The game world is a sprawling and faithful recreation of locations like Athens, Sparta, and the Aegean islands, complete with iconic landmarks, architecture, and clothing styles. The historical attention to detail provides players with an authentic experience of ancient Greece.
The Peloponnesian War
The Peloponnesian War serves as the backdrop for the game’s narrative. Players find themselves amidst the conflict between Athens and Sparta, two prominent Greek city-states vying for supremacy. This war serves as the crucible for the protagonist’s journey, shaping their decisions and alliances.
The Unconventional Narrative: Absence of Assassin and Templar Orders
One of the defining features of the “Assassin’s Creed” franchise has been the timeless battle between the Assassin Brotherhood and the Templar Order, both vying for control of powerful artifacts known as Pieces of Eden. However, “Assassin’s Creed Odyssey” deviates from this established formula.
The Spear of Leonidas
Instead of featuring the traditional conflict between Assassins and Templars, “Odyssey” centers around the enigmatic Spear of Leonidas, a Piece of Eden. This artifact, passed down through generations, becomes a focal point of the game’s narrative[1]. The protagonist, either Alexios or Kassandra, embarks on a quest to uncover the mysteries and powers of this ancient weapon.
A Prequel to the Orders
“Odyssey” takes place before the formation of the Assassin and Templar orders, making it a prequel of sorts within the broader “Assassin’s Creed” timeline. This unique narrative perspective provides players with a fresh outlook on the series’ lore and a chance to explore the world before the age-old conflict took shape.
Freedom of Playstyle: Stealth as an Option
While “Assassin’s Creed” games have always emphasized stealth, “Odyssey” distinguishes itself by offering players a choice when it comes to gameplay style.
Action RPG Elements
“Odyssey” leans into the role-playing game (RPG) genre, allowing players to customize their character, choose dialogue options, and shape the story’s outcome. The RPG elements provide a depth of choice rarely seen in previous installments.
The Freedom to Choose
Stealth in “Odyssey” is optional. Players can opt for a more action-oriented approach, engaging in epic battles and utilizing the character’s combat skills. This flexibility is in line with the game’s RPG elements, granting players the freedom to tailor their experience to their preferences[2].
Comparing “Assassin’s Creed Odyssey” with Other Titles
| Game Title | Setting | Assassin/Templar Conflict | Stealth Emphasis |
| Assassin’s Creed Odyssey | Ancient Greece (431 B.C.–422 B.C.) | Absent; Focus on Spear of Leonidas | Optional |
| Assassin’s Creed Origins | Ancient Egypt (49 B.C.) | Absent; Origin of Brotherhood | Emphasized |
| Assassin’s Creed Unity | 18th-Century Paris | Present | Emphasized |
The Legacy of “Assassin’s Creed Odyssey”
“Assassin’s Creed Odyssey” has left an indelible mark on the franchise, not just for its historical setting but also for its departure from the traditional Assassin vs. Templar conflict. This departure opened new doors for storytelling and player engagement. As the eleventh major installment in the series, “Odyssey” has cemented its place as a unique and memorable entry.
Expansive DLCs
The game’s post-launch support included substantial downloadable content (DLC) expansions like “The Fate of Atlantis” and “Legacy of the First Blade.” These expansions further delved into the game’s lore, expanding upon the mysteries of the Pieces of Eden and the Spear of Leonidas.
Player Choices and Multiple Endings
“Odyssey”‘s narrative is heavily influenced by player choices, leading to multiple branching storylines and endings. This approach not only enhances replayability but also encourages players to explore different paths and outcomes.
Cultural Exploration
Beyond the main storyline, “Odyssey” offers numerous side quests and activities that delve into Greek mythology, history, and culture. Players can encounter famous historical figures, explore ancient ruins, and engage with the legends of the time.
Expansions and Player Choice in “Assassin’s Creed Odyssey”
| Expansion Name | Content | Player Choice Impact |
| The Fate of Atlantis | Explores the mythical realm of Atlantis; Adds to the lore of Pieces of Eden | Influences game ending |
| Legacy of the First Blade | Unravels the origins of the Assassins; Ties to the Spear of Leonidas | Shapes protagonist’s identity |
| Player Choices in Side Quests | Numerous side quests with moral decisions; Affect relationships and outcomes | Influences character development |
Conclusion
“Assassin’s Creed Odyssey” stands as a testament to the franchise’s ability to evolve and adapt while retaining its core identity. Transporting players to the heart of ancient Greece, it offers a unique historical experience and a departure from the traditional Assassin vs. Templar conflict. The game’s emphasis on player choice and freedom of gameplay style has further enriched the “Assassin’s Creed” universe, making it a must-play for both series veterans and newcomers alike.
In summary, “Assassin’s Creed Odyssey” invites players to explore the world of ancient Greece, uncovers the mysteries of the Spear of Leonidas, and offers the freedom to choose their path, whether through stealth or action. Its narrative departure and rich gameplay make it a noteworthy addition to the acclaimed franchise.
Whether you seek historical immersion, epic battles, or an enthralling narrative, “Assassin’s Creed Odyssey” has something for every gamer to discover and enjoy.