The Assassin's Creed franchise is set to celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2027, and it's clear that the series is far from slowing down. With a rich history spanning 15 main entries and numerous handheld and mobile spinoffs, the future of Assassin's Creed looks bright, and it's an exciting time for fans. But what's next for this beloved franchise? Let's take a closer look at the upcoming games and projects, and explore the possibilities that lie ahead.
A New Era of Storytelling
One of the most intriguing projects in the works is Assassin's Creed Codename Hexe. According to franchise head of content Jean Guesdon, players can expect a unique, darker, narrative-driven experience set during a pivotal moment in history. The announcement trailer and pre-reveal reports suggest that Hexe will take players to 16th-century Europe and focus on witch hunts. However, recent leaks have claimed that magical abilities have been removed from the game, which is a surprising twist. Personally, I think this is a missed opportunity to explore the supernatural elements that have always been a part of the Assassin's Creed universe. What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for a more grounded, historical narrative, which could offer a fresh perspective on the series.
Mobile Gaming and Beyond
Assassin's Creed Jade, a mobile game set in Qin Dynasty China in 215 BC, is another exciting project. The game features all the parkour and neck-stabbing action you'd expect from an open-world Assassin's Creed game, and it's a first for the series in terms of customization. However, the lack of a release date is frustrating, and it's unclear when players will be able to experience this game in full. In my opinion, mobile gaming is a natural fit for the Assassin's Creed franchise, and Jade is a prime example of how the series can be adapted for a new platform.
Multiplayer and the Future of the Series
Assassin's Creed Invictus, a PvP multiplayer experience, is another project that has generated a lot of interest. According to Guesdon, Invictus will be led by a dedicated team of For Honor veterans at Ubisoft Montreal, but the details are still unclear. Leaks have claimed that Invictus will be a 'Fall Guys version of Assassin's Creed' with 'Fortnite-style graphics', but Guesdon has denied these rumors. Personally, I think the multiplayer aspect of the series has always been a bit of a missed opportunity, and Invictus could be the game that finally nails it. What many people don't realize is that Assassin's Creed has a rich history of multiplayer modes, and Invictus could be the next step in that evolution.
Remakes and Revivals
Ubisoft's CEO Yves Guillemot has hinted at the possibility of more remakes in the future, and the recent release of Assassin's Creed Black Flag Resynced has confirmed that this is a possibility. The remake has received a strong reception, and it's clear that there's a demand for modernizing classic games. If Black Flag Resynced is the first of several remakes, it could be an exciting time for fans. What this really suggests is that Ubisoft is committed to revisiting and revitalizing its older games, and that's a positive sign for the future of the franchise.
Live Action and Stage Productions
Assassin's Creed has already ventured into live action with a derided film, but the franchise is now exploring new avenues with a live action TV series and a stage production. The Netflix series, which is set in Ancient Rome, has started filming and features a talented cast. Meanwhile, the stage production Heredis is set to premiere in Montreal in December, blending acrobatics, parkour, theatre, and history into a powerful new experience. These projects showcase the franchise's commitment to exploring new mediums and reaching new audiences.
Conclusion
The future of Assassin's Creed looks bright, with a mix of remakes, new games, and innovative projects on the horizon. From the dark and narrative-driven Hexe to the mobile-friendly Jade and the multiplayer-focused Invictus, the franchise is evolving and adapting to new platforms and audiences. As a fan, I'm excited to see what the future holds for Assassin's Creed, and I'm eager to explore the new worlds and experiences that are sure to come. If you take a step back and think about it, the franchise has always been about pushing the boundaries of gaming, and that's a tradition that will continue for years to come.
