After the resounding success of Black Flag Resynced, games are excited about the possibility of Ubisoft revisiting classic iterations of the franchise. As Ezio is undoubtedly the most iconic assassin, many would like to see his trilogy reinvigorated for modern consoles. However, I think they should forget Ezio and focus on Altaïr for the next remake.
While many of the games could do with a visual overhaul, the first Assassin’s Creed needs much more attention. Although it laid the foundation for the series, the repetitive mission structure and limited side activities hindered the experience. Combat has drastically evolved since the original. From its counter-based battles to the Arkham system, culminating in ARPG-focused fights. Developing this to the free-flowing system used in Resynced would vastly improve Altaïr’s adventure.
Detective work was central to the adventure. Eavesdropping and tailing were mission types that were overused, resulting in a dull gameplay loop. Adding a variety of investigations and operational assassination approaches without flooding the map with icons would improve the experience, fixing problems with the original without losing its identity.
There’s discourse around the modern aspects of Assassin’s Creed’s story. The recent remake removed these aspects, opting to keep you in the historical setting. As this introduced Desmond’s arc, it would be a great way to re-establish the modern aspects of the story. Overhauling these scenes with a stronger cinematic flair could help to retell this part of the narrative. Expanding the dialogue could help to alleviate the issues around the modern story, improving this part of the game.
Although the franchise is known for creating rich, beautiful settings, the original feels a little barren. Resynced showed the possibilities of a modern interpretation by adding larger crowds, dynamic weather and improved lighting. Implementing these aspects to Jerusalem would greatly improve the experience.
Each iteration brought new aspects to parkour. From its on-rails feel introduced in AC3 to the dedicated up and down buttons used in Unity, every version adds something to the system. Due to this, when revisiting the original, it feels dated. Applying the Free Parkour which was introduced in Mirage and Shadows, would make climbing feel smoother, creating improved stealth routes and environmental interactions.
The first Assassin’s Creed established many aspects and deserves to be preserved. As next year marks its 20th anniversary, what better way to celebrate than announcing a remake of the original? Not only is this the beginning of the Assassin/Templar conflict, it also introduced the iconic hidden blade and hooded costume. Although Ezio is the most iconic protagonist, revisiting Altaïr’s adventure would be the perfect place for Ubisoft to celebrate the franchise’s roots while modernising the experience for today’s audience.
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