Assassin's Creed Mirage stands out as one of the most captivating projects within the IP's upcoming releases. With a fresh approach of introducing newer characters while embracing a more classic essence, this installment promises to diverge significantly from fans' recent expectations.
In addition to its intricate game mechanics and compelling characters, Assassin's Creed Mirage has already sparked immense interest due to its captivating setting. The time period in which the game takes place holds significant importance for both the Assassin Brotherhood and its predecessor, the Hidden Ones. This installment sets the stage for one of the pivotal moments in the Assassin's Creed timeline.
The Setting of Assassin's Creed Mirage
Assassin's Creed Mirage will transport players to the vibrant city of Baghdad in the year 861, during its renowned golden age. This setting promises an immersive experience as players explore opulent and bustling locations teeming with rich cultural heritage and captivating points of interest.
Harking back to its roots, Assassin's Creed Mirage brings players back to the Middle East, reminiscent of the original locations that captured fans' hearts. The game mechanics also return to the beloved formula of the first Assassin's Creed, moving away from the expansive open-world RPG style of recent franchise entries. Instead, players can expect a more tightly woven and immersive environment that promises to captivate their senses.
AC Mirage will follow the journey of a young Basim Ibn Ishaq, who was introduced in the recent game Assassin's Creed Valhalla. The game will showcase his initiation into the Hidden Ones and his transformation into a skilled assassin. Through Mirage, fans will have the opportunity to explore one of the franchise's most politically significant periods.
Assassin's Creed Mirage, the Hidden Ones, and the Assassin Brotherhood
Many fans of the franchise will be familiar with the Hidden Ones, as they have taken the spotlight in recent releases, surpassing the Assassin Brotherhood. In Assassin's Creed Origins, Bayek of Siwa played a pivotal role in establishing this group, setting the foundation for an organization that would endure for centuries.
Mirage, set around 200 years after the events of Assassin's Creed Mirage, could potentially shed light on the significant transition from the Hidden Ones to the Assassin Brotherhood. Although the game does not directly depict this shift, it has the potential to explore the events that led to it. The Assassin Brotherhood's emergence can be attributed to the Levantine branch of the Hidden Ones, a group that operated in the expansive Middle Eastern region. Hassan-i Sabbah, a prominent leader within this branch, played a pivotal role in shaping the organization. In Mirage, there is a possibility of introducing characters who are direct descendants of Sabbah, thus establishing the groundwork for the eventual shift.
The Order of the Ancients underwent a similar transformation to the Hidden Ones, becoming the Templar Order during the same period. This transformation and the ensuing conflict between the two factions could be depicted in Mirage, highlighting the intensity of the rivalry and the need for a future change in identity. The changes within both groups would ultimately lead to a large-scale war between Assassins and Templars, impacting entire nations and highlighting the global significance of this transition. Although Mirage cannot depict the exact moment of the transition, it can provide a foreshadowing of one of the most pivotal events in the Assassin's Creed franchise. Assassin's Creed Mirage will be available on October 12 for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.