Top 10 Assassin's Creed Games Ranked

The Assassin's Creed series has been taking players on historical adventures around the globe since its debut in 2007. From the Renaissance streets of Italy to the ancient landscapes of Greece, Ubisoft's open-world series has immersed us in a rich tapestry of historical settings, offering a unique blend of education and entertainment. This approach distinguishes Assassin's Creed from other games in its genre, which often transport players to fantastical realms or contemporary urban landscapes.

Although the core mechanics of Assassin's Creed have remained consistent across its 14 mainline entries, the series has evolved significantly, introducing new player progression systems and ever-expanding worlds.

The question of which Assassin's Creed games are the best is a challenging one. After thorough discussion and debate, we've narrowed it down to our top 10 mainline entries in the series.

Here are 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 provides a fitting conclusion to the stories of Altair Ibn-La-Ahad and Ezio Auditore. While some features, like the Den Defense mode, were less impactful, the game remains a memorable and thrilling finale. From ziplining through Constantinople to interacting with Leonardo Da Vinci, Revelations is brimming with fascinating adventures.

This final chapter for Ezio and Altair serves as both a celebration of the series' past and a glimpse into its future. It's a chance to bid farewell to the initial era of Assassin's Creed, seeing these characters through their last adventures.

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 as much about their settings as their protagonists, and Syndicate's Victorian London during the Industrial Revolution stands out. From infiltrating factories to racing horse-drawn carriages and confronting Jack the Ripper, the setting feels both fantastical and grounded.

The game's immersive world is enhanced by Austin Wintory's string-heavy score, which is unique within the series, and the dual protagonists Jacob and Evie Fry have their own distinct soundtracks. These subtle details contribute to a cohesive experience. Moreover, Syndicate offers memorable combat with a cane, 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 didn't revolutionize the series like Origins, it introduced significant changes. The combat feels more impactful, traditional side quests have been replaced with world events for a more organic exploration experience, and the loot system has been streamlined, making rewards feel more meaningful.

Eivor's story, whether you choose the male or female version, is engaging and blends historical fantasy with Norse mythology seamlessly. Fans of Norse lore will appreciate the sagas' role in the main campaign and the expansive world of Thor and Odin explored in the game's lengthy expansion, which feels akin to 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 continues Ezio Auditore da Firenze's journey, solidifying his status as a fan-favorite. The game focuses on an expanded Rome and introduces new mechanics like swimming, property management, firearms, and recruitable allies. Ezio's story is filled with charm, wit, and drama, and the updated combat allows players to embrace their inner aggressive assassin.

Brotherhood also introduced multiplayer, letting players experience the game from the Templars' perspective. While it may not have pushed the series forward as much as its predecessor, it remains beloved by many.

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 marked a pivotal shift for the series, transforming it from a stealth-focused action-adventure into a full-fledged open-world RPG. Beyond its historical significance, Origins is a compelling Assassin's Creed game in its own right.

The story of Bayek and Aya, driven by their quest for justice and the founding of the Assassin's Brotherhood, is gripping. The ancient Egyptian world is a joy to explore, and the shift to loot-based progression and action RPG combat revitalized the series for fans.

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

After the swashbuckling adventures of Black Flag, Unity returned to the series' roots. As the first Assassin's Creed game exclusively released on next-gen consoles, Unity showcased impressive graphics and a near 1:1 recreation of Paris.

Despite a rocky launch plagued by bugs and an overwhelming map, Unity has since been refined through patches and has become a favorite among fans. Its enhanced parkour system offers fluid and elegant movement, and the assassination missions are some of the best in the series. The detailed depiction 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 meets the high expectations set by fans. The game refocuses on stealth and infiltration, offering a more balanced experience compared to the expansive RPG elements of Odyssey and Valhalla.

With two playable protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, Shadows offers diverse gameplay. Naoe's stealth toolkit and Yasuke's samurai combat capture the essence of the period. Exploring the stunning world, which changes with the seasons, is a highlight, especially with Naoe's grappling hook and climbing 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 builds on Origins' combat and RPG elements, set against the backdrop of Ancient Greece during the Peloponnesian War. The game's vast, vibrant world includes stunning landscapes and engaging naval warfare.

The revamped notoriety system leads to intense cat-and-mouse chases, while the nation struggle system involves large-scale battles. The story, which can take over 60 hours to complete, is compelling, with eccentric side quests and a charismatic protagonist, whether you choose male or female. Even after completion, there's much to explore and enjoy in Odyssey's world.

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 not only proved the series' potential but also set a benchmark for sequels. It introduced more dynamic assassination missions, increased flexibility in objectives, improved combat, and the ability to swim. New catacomb missions tested parkour skills, and the upgradeable villa encouraged collecting items.

Set during the Italian Renaissance, the game introduced the iconic protagonist Ezio Auditore da Firenze and enhanced the present-day narrative. The dramatic conclusion, involving a fistfight with the Pope and an otherworldly deity speaking through Ezio to Desmond, was unforgettable.

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 pirate protagonist, Edward Kenway, shifting the focus from assassin to pirate. The Caribbean setting became a sandbox playground filled with islands, treasures, and activities. The upgrade system made hunting and harpooning engaging, and naval combat, expanded from Assassin's Creed 3, became a highlight.

Whether hunting merchant ships or battling formidable pirates, the seamless transition between land and sea offered players freedom in their approach. Black Flag not only stands as one of the best Assassin's Creed games but also as a top pirate game.

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 has just been released, allowing you to explore Feudal Japan as both a shinobi and a samurai. Assassin's Creed Jade, set in ancient China, is in development for mobile devices, though a release date is yet to be confirmed. 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 2007 debut to the latest 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