"Assassin's Creed: 10 Historical Twists"

Ubisoft has once again activated the Animus, this time transporting players to Japan's Sengoku Period in Assassin's Creed Shadows. The game introduces historical figures from 1579, such as Fujibayashi Nagato, Akechi Mitsuhide, and the African samurai Yasuke, who served Oda Nobunaga. As with previous entries in the series, these characters are intricately woven into a narrative that blends fact with fiction, exploring themes of revenge, betrayal, and murder. While the game includes a humorous nod to XP gathering and gold-tier weapons, it's important to remember that Assassin's Creed is rooted in historical fiction, crafting a science fiction conspiracy tale about a secret society aiming to control the world using the mystical powers of a pre-human civilization.

Although Ubisoft's open-world environments are meticulously researched and historically inspired, they are not intended as history lessons. The developers creatively alter historical facts to enhance the storytelling. Here are ten notable instances where Assassin's Creed has playfully rewritten history:

The Assassins vs Templars War

The central conflict between the Order of Assassins and the Knights Templar is entirely fictional. Historically, there is no evidence of such a war; both groups existed during the Crusades, but their interactions were minimal and not ideologically driven. The Assassin's Creed series creatively uses this backdrop to weave an engaging narrative, though it's a far cry from historical reality.

The Borgias and their Superpowered Pope

In Assassin's Creed 2 and Brotherhood, the Borgia family, led by Pope Alexander VI (Rodrigo Borgia), is portrayed as the Templar Order's puppet. While the Borgias were indeed controversial, the game's depiction of them as villains with supernatural aspirations is a significant departure from history. The dramatic confrontation between Ezio and the Pope under the Vatican is a thrilling game moment, but purely fictional.

Machiavelli, Enemy of the Borgias

Niccolò Machiavelli, portrayed as Ezio's ally and leader of the Italian Assassin's Bureau, is a creative liberty taken by Ubisoft. In reality, Machiavelli's political philosophies and his relationship with the Borgias, whom he respected, do not align with the game's narrative. His depiction as an Assassin fighting against authority contradicts his historical stance on strong governance.

The Incredible Leonardo da Vinci and his Flying Machine

Assassin's Creed 2 showcases a strong bond between Ezio and Leonardo da Vinci, capturing the polymath's charisma and wit. However, the game alters da Vinci's travel timeline and brings to life his conceptual inventions, such as a flying machine. While these designs were visionary, there is no historical evidence that they were ever constructed or used.

The Bloody Boston Tea Party

The Boston Tea Party in Assassin's Creed 3 transforms a peaceful protest into a violent confrontation. Historically, no one died during the event, but in the game, protagonist Connor and his allies engage in a deadly skirmish with British guards. Additionally, the game suggests Samuel Adams masterminded the event, a claim that historical records do not conclusively support.

The Lone Mohawk

Connor, the protagonist of Assassin's Creed 3, is a Mohawk fighting alongside the Patriots, which contradicts historical alliances. The Mohawk tribe was allied with the British during the Revolutionary War. While rare instances like Louis Cook exist, Connor's story represents a "what if" scenario that adds depth to the game's narrative.

The Templar Revolution

Assassin's Creed Unity's portrayal of the French Revolution as a Templar conspiracy is a significant deviation from history. The game suggests the revolution was engineered by the Templars, including a manufactured food crisis, while in reality, it was a complex event driven by natural disasters and widespread discontent.

The Controversial Killing of King Louis 16

The execution of King Louis 16 in Assassin's Creed Unity is depicted as a close vote influenced by a Templar, whereas historically, it was a clear majority decision. The game also downplays the King's attempt to flee France and the broader causes of the revolution, presenting a softer view of the French aristocracy.

Jack the Assassin

Assassin's Creed Syndicate reimagines Jack the Ripper as a rogue Assassin seeking control over the London Brotherhood. This narrative twist adds a dramatic layer to the historical figure, who remains unidentified and whose crimes were never linked to such conspiracies.

The Assassination of the Tyrant Julius Caesar

Assassin's Creed Origins reimagines Julius Caesar's assassination as a battle against a proto-Templar leader. The game simplifies the complex political landscape of the time and frames Caesar's death as a victory, ignoring the historical consequences that led to the fall of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Empire.

The Assassin's Creed series goes to great lengths to create immersive historical worlds, but these worlds are often embellished for storytelling purposes. As historical fiction, the games blend factual elements with creative liberties, offering players a thrilling experience rather than a historical documentary. What are your favorite examples of Assassin's Creed bending historical truths? Share them in the comments.