Step into the shoes of Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad, a skilled Assassin operating during the tumultuous Third Crusade in the Holy Land. This action-adventure title offers a unique perspective on history, blending historical settings with a compelling narrative. The core experience revolves around navigating intricate urban environments and executing targeted assassinations. Players will find themselves in the 12th century, a period of intense conflict, where the actions of one man can have far-reaching consequences.

The Setting and Premise

The game transports players to the vibrant, yet war-torn, cities of Jerusalem, Acre, and Damascus during the Third Crusade. The atmosphere is one of tension and political intrigue, with the Crusader and Saracen forces locked in a brutal struggle for control. Within this historical backdrop, a clandestine war is being waged by the Assassin Brotherhood and their ancient rivals, the Knights Templar. The narrative unfolds through the memories of Altaïr, accessed by his 21st-century descendant, Desmond Miles, via a revolutionary device called the Animus. This framing device allows for a unique exploration of genetic memory and its implications.

Core Gameplay Mechanics

At its heart, this game is about stealth, agility, and precise execution. Players will engage in a variety of activities:

Parkour and Free-Running: Traverse the sprawling cityscapes by climbing buildings, leaping across rooftops, and seamlessly blending into crowds. This system allows for fluid movement and creative approaches to navigation and evasion.
Stealth and Assassination: The primary objective in many missions is to eliminate specific targets. This often requires careful planning, observation of patrol patterns, and the use of Altaïr's signature hidden blade. Blending into crowds and using the environment are key to remaining undetected.
Combat: While stealth is encouraged, direct confrontation is also a possibility. Combat is deliberate, focusing on parrying, counter-attacking, and utilizing a variety of weapons.
Investigation and Information Gathering: To identify and locate targets, players will need to gather intelligence through eavesdropping, pickpocketing, and interrogating informants.

What Makes This Game Unique?

The game distinguishes itself through its innovative approach to historical settings and its emphasis on player freedom within a structured narrative. The ability to climb almost any surface and the intricate design of the urban environments create a sense of immersion and agency. The narrative structure, which interweaves Desmond's modern-day predicament with Altaïr's historical exploits, provides a compelling mystery that unfolds gradually.

The Animus and Genetic Memory

A central element of the game's design is the Animus, a device that allows Desmond to relive the memories of his ancestors. This mechanic not only drives the plot but also influences gameplay, as occasional glitches or "Bleeding Effect" phenomena can occur, offering glimpses into Altaïr's skills and perceptions within Desmond's own mind.

Historical Accuracy and Artistic Interpretation

While the game draws inspiration from historical events and figures of the Third Crusade, it also takes creative liberties to craft its unique story. The meticulously recreated cities and the attention to detail in the architecture and cultural elements contribute to a rich and believable world.

Basic Game Information

This is a main game title, originally released on November 13, 2007. It was developed by Ubisoft Montreal and published by Ubisoft Entertainment. The game is available on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 platforms.