Have you ever wondered how a video game about Greek mythology could have any relation to a game franchise about assassins? Well, wonder no more my friends because we are about to dive into the world of “Assassin’s Creed Odyssey” and explore how it connects to the larger story of the Assassins.
For those unfamiliar with the franchise, “Assassin’s Creed” is a series of action-adventure games where players take on the role of an assassin who must complete various missions while also uncovering a larger conspiracy. But “Assassin’s Creed Odyssey” takes a slightly different approach by integrating Greek mythology into the game’s narrative.
So how does “Odyssey” fit into the larger story of the Assassins? Well, while the game does have its roots in mythology, it still manages to tie into the franchise’s overarching plot. And it does so by exploring the origins of the Assassin’s Creed itself, how it came to be and who its earliest members were. It also delves into the Isu civilization, an ancient and technologically advanced race that played a crucial role in shaping the world that the Assassins must now navigate. So buckle up, dear readers, because we’re about to embark on an epic adventure through time and mythology.
Assassins Creed Odyssey storyline
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is an action-packed game developed by Ubisoft Montreal and released on October 5, 2018. It is the eleventh major installment and the twenty-first game overall in the Assassin’s Creed series. The game takes place in ancient Greece, during the Peloponnesian War between Athens and Sparta. The player assumes the role of Alexios or Kassandra, a mercenary who is tasked with uncovering the truth about their family and their connection to the secretive organization of Assassins.
The storyline of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is divided into several main quests and side quests. The main quests are divided into nine chapters, each with several quests that advance the story. Side quests, on the other hand, are optional quests that allow the player to explore the world of ancient Greece and learn about its inhabitants.
- Chapter 1 – The Wolf Hunt: In this chapter, the player is introduced to the main protagonist Alexios or Kassandra and their connection to the mysterious cult known as the Cult of Kosmos. The player embarks on a mission to discover the identities of the cultists and put an end to their plans.
- Chapter 2 – A Debt to Pay: In this chapter, the player learns about the family members who have been separated from them and must go on a quest to reunite with them.
- Chapter 3 – The Road to Symposium: In this chapter, the player infiltrates a symposium held by the Cult of Kosmos and discovers new clues about their ultimate plan.
The game also has several DLCs, including The Fate of Atlantis and Legacy of the First Blade. These DLCs explore the different mythological aspects of ancient Greece and delve deeper into the story of the Assassins.
| Chapter | Quests |
|---|---|
| Chapter 1 – The Wolf Hunt | 1. Another Day, Another Drachma 2. The Wolf of Sparta 3. Consult the Oracle 4. A Prescription for Discovery 5. Speak No Evil 6. The Serpent’s Lair 7. Memories Awoken 8. Bully the Bullies 9. One Man Army |
| Chapter 2 – A Debt to Pay | 1. So It Begins 2. Debt Collector 3. An Eye for an Eye 4. Fancy Guests 5. Penelope’s Shroud 6. The Big Break 7. Learning the Ropes 8. Equal Employment Opportunity Program 9. A Journey into War |
| Chapter 3 – The Road to Symposium | 1. Paradise Lost 2. Homecoming 3. The Contender 4. The Long Game 5. Pankration 6. Delivering a Champion 7. The End of Drakon 8. Sokrates’ Trial 9. Trials of Sokrates |
| Chapter 4 – The Cult and the Archon | 1. The Serpent’s Lair 2. Memories Awoken 3. To Kill or Not to Kill 4. Judge, Jury, Executioner 5. Consulting a Ghost 6. The Truth Will Out 7. The Cultist King 8. Monger Down 9. Death and Disorder |
The narrative of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is heavily influenced by the history and mythology of ancient Greece. The game introduces characters such as Herodotus, the famous historian, and brings to life myths such as the story of Medusa and the Minotaur.
Greek Mythology in Assassins Creed Odyssey
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey takes players on a journey through ancient Greece, where they take on the role of Kassandra or Alexios, Spartan warrior descendants of the Spartan king, Leonidas. As they explore Greece, players come across a variety of references to Greek mythology, adding a unique layer of depth to the narrative and atmosphere of the game.
- The Gods: It is impossible to explore ancient Greece without encountering the gods that shaped its mythology. Through interactions with key figures like Poseidon, Athena, and Zeus, players learn about their influence in Greek society, and how they were often used to justify the actions of the powerful. These encounters not only add to the game’s overall ambiance but also play a key role in Kassandra or Alexios’s journey.
- The Creatures: Greek mythology is also home to many creatures and beasts that call the virtual world of Odyssey home. The game features a varied cast of mythological creatures, from minotaurs to cyclops, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. True to the game’s emphasis on player choice, players can choose to engage these creatures in combat or avoid them altogether.
- The Mythology: Greek mythology is also a treasure trove of stories and legends, many of which play a key role in the game’s narrative. These myths are brought to life in vivid detail, giving players a chance to experience them in a way that feels fresh and exciting while remaining faithful to the source material. The game’s story weaves in and out of these myths, creating a rich tapestry of history, mythology, and fiction.
The game’s attention to detail is exemplified in the way it incorporates Greek mythology into every aspect of the game. From its stunning visuals to its narrative structure, Greek mythology adds an extra layer of depth and complexity, making Assassin’s Creed Odyssey one of the most captivating games of its time.
Overall, the game’s use of Greek mythology is a masterstroke, not only creating a unique atmosphere but deepening the game’s narrative as well. The game’s strength lies in its ability to bring these stories to life in a way that feels wholly authentic, allowing players to experience the wonders of ancient Greece in all their glory.
References:
| Author(s) | Title | Publication Date |
|---|---|---|
| Ubisoft | Assassin’s Creed Odyssey | 2018 |
| Edwards, Holly | “How ‘Assassin’s Creed Odyssey’ Uses Greek Mythology to Rewrite its Own Lore” | 2018 |
| Dornbush, Jonathon | “Assassin’s Creed Odyssey’s RPG Elements Infuse New Life Into The Series” | 2018 |
Odyssey’s Role in the Overall Assassin’s Creed Narrative
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, released in 2018, marked the 11th installment in the highly successful video game franchise. It features an open-world map and allows players to choose between a male or female protagonist for the first time in the series. While it was a standalone game, it also played a crucial role in the overall Assassin’s Creed narrative. Here’s how:
The Introduction of the Isu
- Assassin’s Creed Odyssey introduced the Isu, a highly advanced and ancient race that ruled over Earth before humanity evolved.
- The Isu were featured in previous Assassin’s Creed games, but Odyssey expanded on their history and motivations through the main character’s interactions with their artifacts and memories.
- This introduction of the Isu proved to be crucial in the story’s progression and added depth to the overall narrative of the series.
Exploration of the First Civilization
The First Civilization, also known as the Isu, played a significant role in Odyssey’s story. This civilization was depicted as a technologically advanced society that had been almost wiped from history due to an unexplained catastrophic event. In the game, the player is taken through several quests that explore untold aspects of the civilization’s history.
The First Civilization was not featured heavily in previous games, with only brief mentions or appearances. Their detailed depiction in Odyssey helped enlighten players about the roots of the Assassin-Templar conflict and the importance of science and technology in the story’s universe.
Connection to Modern Day Storyline
The modern-day storyline of the Assassin’s Creed franchise is an essential aspect of the series as it serves as a framing device for the historical sections. Odyssey made a great contribution to this aspect of the narrative by furthering the plot of Layla Hassan, the modern-day protagonist introduced in Assassin’s Creed Origins.
The game set up a significant event for the narrative’s future where Layla makes contact with Aletheia, an Isu consciousness that is instrumental in understanding the ancient civilization’s secrets. Through this encounter, the Game further assimilated the themes of the past and modern-day, creating parallels that hint at the potential connection between the Isu civilization and the modern-day setting.
Conclusion
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Odyssey introduced the Isu, which is a significant aspect of the Assassin’s Creed franchise. | The game deviated from the core Assassin’s Creed mechanics, making it feel less like an Assassin’s Creed game. |
| The player got to explore in-depth the First Civilization, which was only briefly mentioned in previous games. | The game’s ending was divisive among fans, and some felt that it detracted from the overall theme of the series. |
| The game strengthened the connection between the historical sections and the modern-day framing device. | Odyssey’s lengthy main quest was too long and could be tedious for some players. |
Overall, Odyssey’s impact on the Assassin’s Creed narrative was significant, from the introduction of the Isu to the exploration of the First Civilization. It also created a more significant connection between the historical and modern-day settings. Although some fans criticized the game’s substantial deviation from the core Assassin’s Creed mechanics, it was still a masterfully crafted game that contributed greatly to the overall narrative of the series.
The characters and factions in Odyssey and their relation to the Assassins
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey takes place in ancient Greece, long before the formation of the Assassin Brotherhood. While the game doesn’t explicitly feature the Assassins, there are still characters and factions that share similar ideals and goals with the legendary group.
- The Cult of Kosmos – The Cult is a secret organization that operates in the shadows, manipulating politics and events throughout Greece. They’re similar to the Templars in the Assassin’s Creed universe, as they seek to control the world and impose their vision of order. Their methods are ruthless and brutal, often resulting in the deaths of innocent people. Throughout Odyssey, the player character (either Alexios or Kassandra) must take down the Cult’s members to uncover their leadership and motives.
- The Hidden Ones – While the Hidden Ones don’t play a major role in Odyssey, they’re nevertheless an important part of the game’s lore. The Hidden Ones are a precursor organization to the Assassins, operating in Egypt during the Ptolemaic period. They share similar goals and beliefs with the Assassins, and their legacy is felt throughout the franchise. Players can even acquire a Hidden Blade in Odyssey, one of the signature weapons of the Assassins.
- Leonidas – As the leader of the Spartan army, Leonidas is a legendary figure in Greek history. He sacrificed himself during the Battle of Thermopylae to delay the Persian army’s advance, allowing the Greeks to prepare for a decisive battle. While Leonidas doesn’t have a direct connection to the Assassins, he embodies many of their ideals. He fights for freedom, justice, and the greater good, even if it means sacrificing himself.
While Odyssey doesn’t center around the Assassins, it still explores many of the same themes and concepts found throughout the franchise. The game’s characters and factions serve as a reminder that the fight for freedom and justice isn’t limited to a single group or period in history, but rather an ongoing struggle that requires vigilance and dedication.
The use of historical figures in Assassins Creed Odyssey
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is a video game that takes players on a journey through ancient Greece, allowing them to interact with prominent historical figures of that era. Here are some of the ways in which the game utilizes real-life characters to provide an immersive experience for players:
- Greek Philosophers: The game features famous philosophers like Socrates, Aristotle, and Pythagoras, allowing players to engage in philosophical discussions and debates with them. This brings a level of authenticity to the game and exposes players to the intellectual history of ancient Greece.
- Alexander the Great: Players get to meet the famous conqueror and experience first-hand his military tactics and conquests that changed the course of history. The game accurately portrays Alexander’s ambition and his desire for power, making him an interesting character to interact with.
- Cleon of Athens: This Athenian General plays a significant role in shaping the game’s narrative. The game portrays him as a corrupt politician, making him a villainous character that players must defeat. The use of Cleon’s character helps to add depth to the game’s story and provides players with a better understanding of Athenian politics.
The game’s use of historical characters doesn’t stop there. In fact, the game developers went to great lengths to accurately portray the clothing, mannerisms, and speech of these historical figures, making them feel more real to players.
Furthermore, the extensive research carried out by Ubisoft, the game’s developers, and historians to maintain the historical accuracy of the characters adds to the player’s overall experience. Players are treated to an engaging storyline while simultaneously learning about ancient Greece’s history, making Assassin’s Creed Odyssey an intellectually stimulating video game.
| Historical Figures | Game Portrayal |
|---|---|
| Alexander the Great | Ambitious conqueror with great military tactics |
| Cleon of Athens | Corrupt politician and villainous character |
| Socrates | Philosopher who engages in philosophical discussions |
| Aristotle | Philosopher who engages in philosophical discussions |
| Pythagoras | Philosopher who engages in philosophical discussions |
The use of historical figures in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey adds credibility and depth to the game’s storyline. The accurate portrayal of these figures through extensive research provides a unique opportunity for players to learn about ancient Greek history while simultaneously enjoying an engaging gameplay experience.
The gameplay mechanics in Odyssey that relate to the Assassins Creed franchise
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is the latest entry in the classic video game franchise that offers players a fresh take on the series’ signature blend of historical fiction, action, and sci-fi elements. The game features a massive open-world environment, and numerous gameplay mechanics that tie back to the Assassin’s Creed storyline. Here are some of the Odyssey gameplay mechanics that most relate to the franchise:
- Parkour: One of the most recognizable mechanics from the Assassin’s Creed games is the ability to climb up and down buildings. This mechanic, also known as parkour, is present in Odyssey, with a few tweaks to make it more realistic. The game features a skill tree for movement that allows players to run up and leap off walls to reach higher ledges. The game also features a stamina system that makes parkour more challenging and rewards the careful use of these movements.
- Stealth and Assassination: Stealth is a significant part of the Assassin’s Creed games, and in Odyssey, it plays a key role in completing objectives. The game revolves around the concept of battling enemies while staying hidden. Players can sneak past guards and take out targets using a variety of weapons like swords, bows, and daggers. The game also includes an assassination system that allows players to instantly kill enemies from a hidden position.
- Combat System: The combat in Odyssey has been refined compared to earlier Assassin’s Creed games. The game features a deeper combat system that allows players to engage in melee and ranged combat with a newfound level of control. Players can parry and dodge enemy attacks, use special abilities, and execute various finishing blows. The game also includes a skill tree that enables players to customize their combat to fit their playstyle.
These gameplay mechanics, along with others like sailing, free-running, and puzzling, make Assassin’s Creed Odyssey a standout game in the franchise. The game captures the essence of what makes the Assassin’s Creed games fun while breathing new life into the series.
Here’s a table that summarizes how Odyssey’s gameplay mechanics compare to the previous entries in the franchise:
| Gameplay Mechanics | Previous Entries | Odyssey |
|---|---|---|
| Parkour | Climbing and free-running | Stamina system, wall running, and skill tree |
| Stealth | Assassinations | Hidden blade and assassination system |
| Combat System | Simple combat with counter-attacks | Deeper combat system with parrying, dodging, and special abilities |
Overall, Odyssey’s gameplay mechanics hold up well against the established franchise while also establishing the game as an evolution of the series.
The Influence of Ancient Greece in the Assassins Creed Universe
The world of Assassin’s Creed is heavily influenced by ancient Greek culture, mythology, and history. From the architecture to the iconic Greek gods, there are numerous references to Greek mythology throughout the series. However, the Assassins themselves have a deep connection to ancient Greece beyond just its mythology.
- The Origins of the Brotherhood: According to the lore of Assassin’s Creed, the Brotherhood began in ancient Persia with a group of rebels known as the Medjay. However, it was the Greek philosopher Pythagoras who created the first official Assassin organization, the Order of the Ancients, in the fifth century BCE. This Order was rooted in Pythagorean philosophy and was dedicated to fighting against tyranny and oppression.
- The Seven Philosophers: In Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey, players encounter a group known as the Seven Sages or Seven Philosophers. These individuals were some of the most influential philosophers and thinkers of ancient Greece, and they played a crucial role in helping the Assassins gain control of the region. The Seven Sages were part of a secret society known as the Order of the Ancients, which was later reorganized into the Assassins Brotherhood.
- The Role of the Greek Gods: The Greek gods play a significant role in the Assassin’s Creed universe. In numerous games, players can interact with the gods, gain their favor, and unlock powerful abilities. These abilities are often tied to specific gods and are based on their mythology. For example, players who gain the favor of Athena can unlock abilities related to strategic warfare and expert tactics.
One of the most impressive aspects of Assassin’s Creed is how the games manage to infuse real-world historical events and people with fictional elements while maintaining a cohesive and engaging storyline. This approach is on full display in Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey. The game takes place during the Peloponnesian War, and players interact with iconic Greek figures such as Socrates and Pericles. Additionally, players can visit famous Greek cities, such as Athens and Sparta, which are depicted in stunning detail.
The Architecture and Design of Ancient Greece
Ancient Greece was known for its impressive architecture and design. From the towering columns of the Parthenon to the sweeping arches of the Temple of Zeus, Greek structures were both beautiful and practical. In Assassin’s Creed, players can explore ancient cities and marvel at the architecture and design of the time.
Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey, in particular, is known for its stunning recreations of Greek cities. The game’s art team spent countless hours researching and designing the cities of Athens, Sparta, and Corinth, among others. The result is a game that feels both authentic and immersive. Players can explore every corner of the city and marvel at the intricate details of the buildings and structures around them.
To add to the authenticity, the game developers incorporated thousands of historical assets, such as pottery, jewelry, and weapons, into the game. These assets were modeled after real-world artifacts found in museums and archaeological sites. The result is a game world that feels both fantastical and grounded in reality.
The Legacy of Ancient Greece
Ancient Greece was a cradle of civilization and is responsible for many of the innovations and ideas that shape modern society. From the advent of democracy to the creation of the Olympics, Greece’s impact on the world is still felt today. The legacy of ancient Greece is also reflected in the Assassin’s Creed universe.
Throughout the series, there are numerous references to the impact of ancient Greece on the world. For example, Assassin’s Creed: Origins features a significant subplot involving the Library of Alexandria, which was one of the most important centers of learning in ancient Greece. Additionally, the role of the Seven Sages in the creation of the Assassins Brotherhood highlights the influential role that Greek philosophy and thought played in shaping the world.
| Assassin’s Creed Game | Main Setting | Ancient Greek References |
|---|---|---|
| Assassin’s Creed II | Renaissance Italy | The architecture and design of Renaissance Italy is heavily influenced by ancient Greece. |
| Assassin’s Creed: Odyssey | Ancient Greece during the Peloponnesian War | The game is set in ancient Greece and features numerous references to Greek mythology, philosophy, and history. |
| Assassin’s Creed: Origins | Ancient Egypt | The game features a subplot involving the Library of Alexandria, which was one of the most important centers of learning in ancient Greece. |
| Assassin’s Creed: Syndicate | Victorian London | The architecture and design of Victorian London is heavily influenced by ancient Greece. |
Overall, the influence of ancient Greece on the Assassin’s Creed universe is profound. From the organization of the Brotherhood to the iconic Greek gods, ancient Greece is a crucial component of the Assassin’s Creed mythos. Additionally, the attention to detail in the game’s recreations of ancient Greek cities and architecture is a testament to the care and dedication of the game developers. By incorporating elements of real-world history and mythology into a fictional story, Assassin’s Creed creates a compelling and immersive universe that continues to captivate fans around the world.
How Does Odyssey Relate to the Assassins?
1. Is Assassin’s Creed Odyssey part of the Assassin’s Creed series?
Yes, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is part of the Assassin’s Creed series. It is the eleventh major installment in the franchise.
2. Does Assassin’s Creed Odyssey have Assassins?
Yes, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey does have Assassins. Although the game takes place centuries before the formation of the Assassin Order, it still includes elements that are foundational to the series.
3. Do you play as an Assassin in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey?
No, you do not play as an Assassin in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. Instead, you play as a mercenary named Kassandra or Alexios, who is descended from a legendary warrior named Leonidas.
4. Is Assassin’s Creed Odyssey set in ancient Greece?
Yes, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is set in ancient Greece, specifically during the Peloponnesian War between Athens and Sparta.
5. Does Assassin’s Creed Odyssey have a modern-day storyline?
Yes, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey does have a modern-day storyline. The player takes on the role of Layla Hassan, who is using technology to explore the memories of Kassandra or Alexios.
6. Is Odyssey connected to previous Assassin’s Creed games?
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is connected to previous Assassin’s Creed games. It establishes the origins of the First Civilization, the Isu, who have been a recurring element in the series.
7. Are there any references to the other Assassins in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey?
Yes, there are references to other Assassins in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. For example, the Sphinx can be found in the game, which is an artifact that is often associated with the Assassin Order.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for reading about how Assassin’s Creed Odyssey relates to the Assassins. Even though you don’t play as an Assassin in this game, there are still plenty of connections to the overall series. From ancient Greece to the Isu to the modern-day storyline, Odyssey provides a lot of context for the events that happen in later games. Make sure to come back and visit us again for more video game content!