The Evolution of Protagonists in The 'Assassin's Creed' Series

The 'Assassin's Creed' series has become a landmark in gaming, known not just for its expansive open worlds and rich historical settings, but also for its evolving protagonists. Since the series began in 2007, the nature and complexity of its main characters have undergone significant changes, reflecting broader trends in storytelling and character development in the gaming industry.

Starting with Altair Ibn-La'Ahad in the original 'Assassin's Creed,' we were introduced to a stoic, disciplined Assassin during the Third Crusade. Altair’s journey was one of redemption and self-discovery, setting a tone for the series where the protagonist’s personal growth is intertwined with their broader mission. Altair was a lone wolf, whose transformation from a proud, somewhat arrogant Assassin to a more thoughtful and wiser mentor laid the groundwork for the series’ focus on personal evolution.

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Then came Ezio Auditore da Firenze, arguably the most beloved Assassin. Ezio’s story, spanning three games, was deeply personal. From a carefree young man in Renaissance Italy to a seasoned mentor, his narrative was rich with themes of revenge, loss, and legacy. Ezio’s charm and depth added a new dimension to the series, showing that protagonists could be both relatable and complex.

Following Ezio, the series took a more varied approach with its protagonists. Connor Kenway in 'Assassin's Creed III' represented a shift to a more sombre tone. His story, set during the American Revolution, was one of cultural identity and personal struggle, contrasting sharply with Ezio's charismatic persona. This showed the series' willingness to explore different narrative tones and character backgrounds.

'Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag' introduced Edward Kenway, Connor’s grandfather, whose story brought a roguish, swashbuckling charm to the series. Edward’s evolution from a pirate seeking fortune to an Assassin committed to a cause highlighted themes of redemption and purpose. His character added a sense of adventure and moral ambiguity to the series.

The series continued to evolve with protagonists like Arno Dorian in 'Assassin's Creed Unity,' whose tale of love and betrayal during the French Revolution, and Bayek of Siwa in 'Assassin's Creed Origins,' who brought a deeply personal and emotional story set in Ancient Egypt. Bayek’s journey was particularly poignant, as it dealt with themes of grief and vengeance, while also exploring the origins of the Assassin Brotherhood.

More recently, 'Assassin's Creed Odyssey' and 'Assassin's Creed Valhalla' have introduced customizable protagonists, Kassandra/Alexios and Eivor. This shift to more player-driven narratives reflects a broader trend in gaming, emphasizing player choice and agency. These characters are shaped by the player’s decisions, adding a new layer of personalization to the series.