Ubisoft's latest addition to their renowned stealth-action open-world series, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, has finally arrived. As we delve into the world of 16th-century Japan with protagonists Naoe and Yasuke, it's time to reflect on where this game stands among its predecessors. Since the series kicked off in 2007 with Desmond Miles stepping into the Animus to embody his ancestor Altaïr, Assassin’s Creed has evolved significantly. Now, with over 30 games under its belt, we're focusing solely on the mainline entries for this ranking exercise, leaving out mobile, side-scrolling, VR, and spin-offs like Bloodlines or Liberation.
I've taken the liberty of ranking the 14 core Assassin’s Creed games based on my personal enjoyment, using an IGN Tier List. You can check out my rankings below:
At the pinnacle of my list, in the S-tier, sit Assassin’s Creed 4: Black Flag and Assassin’s Creed 2. Black Flag remains my favorite due to its seamless blend of island exploration, thrilling ship combat, and a vibrant cast of characters. Meanwhile, Assassin’s Creed 2 propelled the franchise into the spotlight with its compelling narrative and refined gameplay. In the A-tier, you'll find Valhalla, which might raise some eyebrows, but I thoroughly enjoyed the Viking-inspired combat and the addictive Orlog minigame. Joining it is Unity, whose stunning recreation of French Revolution-era Paris continues to impress even a decade on.
Do you disagree with my rankings? Perhaps you think Valhalla is too bloated or that Assassin’s Creed 2 is overrated? Feel free to create your own tier list below and see how your S, A, B, C, and D tiers stack up against the broader IGN community.
Every Assassin's Creed Game Tier List
Are you enjoying Assassin’s Creed Shadows? Where in the world do you think the series should head next? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let us know how you've ranked the mainline Assassin’s Creed games and why.
