Ubisoft has once again activated the Animus, this time transporting us to Japan's Sengoku Period with Assassin's Creed Shadows. The game introduces historical figures from 1579, including Fujibayashi Nagato, Akechi Mitsuhide, and Yasuke, the African samurai who served Oda Nobunaga. As with previous entries in the series, these characters are seamlessly integrated into a narrative that blends fact with fiction, weaving a tale of revenge, betrayal, and murder. While the game humorously suggests that Yasuke had to kill everyone to gather enough XP for a gold-tier weapon, it's a playful nod to the series' blend of history and gaming mechanics.
Assassin's Creed is renowned for its historical fiction, crafting stories that fill in historical gaps with a science fiction conspiracy involving a secret society aiming to control the world using the mystical powers of a pre-human civilization. Ubisoft's open-world environments are meticulously researched and rooted in history, yet it's crucial to recognize that these games are not history lessons. The developers often alter historical facts to enhance the storytelling, creating a rich tapestry of "what if" scenarios.
Here are ten notable instances where Assassin's Creed has creatively rewritten history:
The Assassins vs Templars War
The central conflict between the Assassins and Templars is entirely fictional. Historically, there is no evidence that the Order of Assassins, founded in 1090 AD, and the Knights Templar, established in 1118, were ever at war. Both groups were disbanded by 1312, and their only shared involvement was in the Crusades. Assassin's Creed's portrayal of a centuries-long ideological battle is a creative liberty taken to drive the narrative.
The Borgias and their Superpowered Pope
In Assassin's Creed 2 and Brotherhood, the Borgia family, particularly Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia, who becomes Pope Alexander VI, is depicted as part of the Templar Order. The game's plot involving the magical Apple of Eden and a pope with god-like powers is pure fiction. While the Borgias were historically controversial, the game exaggerates their villainy, portraying Cesare Borgia as an incestuous psychopath, despite lacking historical evidence beyond rumors.
Machiavelli, Enemy of the Borgias
Niccolò Machiavelli, portrayed as Ezio's ally and leader of the Italian Assassin's Bureau, would likely not have aligned with the Assassins given his philosophies favoring strong authority. Historically, Machiavelli had a more nuanced view of the Borgias, serving as a diplomat in Cesare's court and considering him a model ruler, contrary to the game's depiction.
The Incredible Leonardo da Vinci and his Flying Machine
Assassin's Creed 2 showcases a strong portrayal of Leonardo da Vinci's charisma and wit. However, the game alters his timeline, moving him from Florence to Venice in 1481 to align with Ezio's story. While da Vinci's designs, like the machine gun and tank, are brought to life in the game, there's no evidence they were ever built. The flying machine used by Ezio, inspired by da Vinci's sketches, is a creative leap, as there's no record of it ever flying.
The Bloody Boston Tea Party
The Boston Tea Party, a non-violent protest during the American Revolution, is dramatically altered in Assassin's Creed 3. The game turns it into a violent confrontation, with protagonist Connor killing British guards while others dump tea. The game also suggests Samuel Adams masterminded the event, despite historians' uncertainty about his involvement.
The Lone Mohawk
Assassin's Creed 3's protagonist, Connor, a Mohawk, fights alongside the Patriots, contrary to historical alliances where the Mohawk supported the British. While rare cases like Louis Cook, a Mohawk who fought against the British, 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 oversimplifies the complex causes of the event, including natural disasters leading to famine. The game's focus on the Reign of Terror as the entirety of the revolution ignores the broader context and multiple factors that contributed to the uprising.
The Controversial Killing of King Louis 16
Unity's depiction of King Louis 16's execution as a close vote swayed by a Templar is inaccurate. Historically, the vote was a clear majority in favor of execution. The game also downplays the widespread anger against the French aristocracy and King Louis's attempt to flee, which contributed to his treason charges.
Jack the Assassin
Assassin's Creed Syndicate reimagines Jack the Ripper as a rogue Assassin seeking to control the London Brotherhood. This narrative twist, while fitting the series' theme of hidden histories, diverges significantly from the real, unsolved case of the serial killer.
The Assassination of the Tyrant Julius Caesar
Assassin's Creed Origins reinterprets Julius Caesar's assassination as a battle against a proto-Templar. The game's portrayal of Caesar as a tyrant opposed to the people's interests contradicts his historical efforts to redistribute land. The assassination's aftermath, leading to the Roman Empire's rise, is framed as a victory in the game, despite its historical consequences.
Assassin's Creed games are a testament to the power of historical fiction, blending meticulously researched settings with creative storytelling. While historical accuracy is often sacrificed for narrative impact, this approach allows for engaging "what if" scenarios that captivate players. What are your favorite examples of Assassin's Creed bending the truth? Share your thoughts in the comments.
