Ubisoft's latest addition to the iconic stealth-action open-world series, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, has finally arrived, bringing players back into the fold with a journey set in 16th-century Japan. As fans dive into the adventures of Naoe and Yasuke, the question arises: where does this latest installment rank among the series' mainline titles? Since the inception of Assassin’s Creed in 2007 with Desmond Miles and Altaïr, the franchise has grown to include over 30 games. However, we're focusing solely on the core series, which now boasts 14 entries, to determine their place in the pantheon of Assassin’s Creed.
My personal journey through the series led me to create an IGN Tier List based on my enjoyment of each game. Here's a glimpse at my rankings:
At the pinnacle of my list, in the S-tier, sits Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag. Its blend of island exploration, thrilling ship combat, and a vibrant cast encapsulates the ultimate Assassin’s Creed experience for me. It's joined by Assassin’s Creed 2, the game that truly launched the series into stardom. In the A-tier, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla earns its place with its engaging Viking-inspired combat and my personal favorite, the Orlog minigame. Also in the A-tier is Assassin’s Creed Unity, whose breathtaking recreation of French Revolution-era Paris remains impressive even a decade on.
Do you find yourself at odds with my rankings? Perhaps you believe Valhalla suffers from bloat, or that Assassin’s Creed 2 is overrated. I encourage you to craft your own tier list, comparing your S, A, B, C, and D tiers with the broader IGN community. Share your thoughts and rankings below.
As you immerse yourself in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, where would you like to see the series venture next? Share your ideas in the comments, and let us know the reasoning behind your console rankings as well.