Unveiling the Shadowed Legacy: Why Assassin's Creed Mirage Signals the Final Chapter for the Hidden Ones

Highlights

Assassin's Creed Mirage marks the end of the Hidden Ones saga, allowing the franchise to return to its classic Assassin vs. Templar story that fans have been longing for.

Players have observed the gradual development and expansion of the Hidden Ones across multiple games, affording them a comprehensive understanding of the precursor Brotherhood.

With the Hidden Ones having engrossed players thus far, the opportune moment has arrived to redirect the spotlight towards the Assassin-Templar War, injecting renewed vigor into the series and fulfilling fans' longing for a resurgence of the franchise's fundamental aspect.

Since Assassin's Creed Origins, the AC franchise has shifted its focus from the Brotherhood to the earlier version known as the Hidden Ones. This has allowed players to witness the emergence of the assassins throughout history, which has been well-received by fans. However, with the release of Assassin's Creed Mirage, Ubisoft should consider returning to the classic Assassin vs. Templar storyline that the franchise was originally built on. After three games with the Hidden Ones, players have encountered mysterious cults and orders instead of the Templars proper. While these additions have been valuable to the series, some players are eager for a return to the franchise's roots. Given that AC Mirage has showcased the pinnacle of the Hidden Ones, it seems like the perfect opportunity to move on from them.

The Hidden Ones Saga Should End with AC Mirage

The Hidden Ones, the earliest form of the Assassin Brotherhood, was established by Bayek of Siwa and his wife Aya of Alexandria. Players experienced their origins in Assassin's Creed Origins, as they rose to defend against the nefarious Order of the Ancients, who would eventually become the Templar Order. Following their triumph in Egypt, the Hidden Ones expanded globally and evolved into the enigmatic organization familiar to players today.

Since the introduction of Assassin's Creed Origins, players have witnessed the growth and empowerment of the Hidden Ones. Although they were not present in Assassin's Creed Odyssey, which occurred centuries before their inception, players encountered a more formidable portrayal through Basim in Valhalla and Mirage. Valhalla showcased their expansion into England, while Mirage presented a compelling narrative during their peak strength, offering thrilling tales to players.

Having witnessed the establishment and growth of the Hidden Ones in the earlier chapters, as well as their expansion in Valhalla, players now have a more comprehensive understanding of the early incarnation of the Brotherhood. With this complete picture in mind, it seems like an opportune moment to move on from it. While it could be intriguing to explore the official adoption of the Assassin Brotherhood moniker in 1090, it does not appear that the future of the franchise currently includes that storyline.

Although the Hidden Ones have provided an interesting narrative, it feels like the perfect time to revert back to the Assassin-Templar War. Shifting the focus back to this conflict may be exactly what the series needs, as some fans have grown weary of the extensive RPG elements and have longed for a return to the series' core essence. While Mirage may have brought them close to that, placing the Assassin Brotherhood at the forefront once again would truly fulfill these desires.

The Hidden Ones have always been an integral part of the franchise's mythology, and it has been incredibly enjoyable to witness their growth and evolution throughout the years. However, now that players have witnessed their grandest achievements, it feels like an opportune moment to progress. While there may still be potential in exploring different time periods with the Hidden Ones, the most authentic way to return to the series' origins would be by reintroducing the Brotherhood. Additionally, Ubisoft has a plethora of time periods to delve into with the Brotherhood, making them the ideal protagonists for the future.

Assassin's Creed Mirage is available on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X.