The Assassin’s Creed franchise has taken us on countless historical adventures, from Renaissance Italy to ancient Greece and even briefly Ireland in good auld Valhalla. Now, with the release of Assassin’s Creed Mirage for the PlayStation 5, the series sets its sights on an entirely new and mysterious setting and the series goes back to it’s routes with a shorter less time dumping title. In this review, we’ll explore the sand-swept landscapes of Assassin’s Creed Mirage and delve into the intriguing blend of history and mythology that it offers.
Setting and Story
Assassin’s Creed Mirage transports players to the heart of the mesmerizing and enigmatic world of Baghdad. Set in a lush and vibrant interpretation of the Arabian Peninsula, the game offers an enticing mix of historical authenticity and mythical storytelling. The narrative is rich with intricate political intrigue, as you become embroiled in the conflicts between warring factions, all while uncovering ancient secrets that have the power to reshape the course of history. It’s a bloody great storyline with you taking our titular tile Bashim through a city that is in the middle of political upheaval and as anyone who has played in the past will know this is when the Order do their work.
Gameplay
The core gameplay mechanics that have become the hallmark of Assassin’s Creed remain intact in Mirage. As a nimble assassin, you’ll navigate the sprawling cities and treacherous terrains with grace, executing acrobatic parkour moves and employing a wide array of weapons and tools. Combat feels fluid and engaging, with new combat maneuvers that add depth to the experience. Really the game plays and feels so much like the abolsutely iconic Ezio series, which by the by is available on the PlayStation Premium package.
Graphics and Performance
Assassin’s Creed Mirage leverages the power of the PlayStation 5 to deliver a visual feast but then again Assasins Creed games have always been gorgeous, it’s one of my favourite things about them if I’m being fully honest. The environments are breathtaking, from bustling cities to the sprawling deserts. Character models are highly detailed, and the lighting effects contribute to a cinematic experience. Load times are virtually nonexistent, and the game runs smoothly, offering a next-gen visual spectacle that is sure to impress.
Open World and Exploration
The game’s open-world design encourages exploration, with a vast and detailed map to traverse, albeit nothing to the same scale as Valhalla, while Valhalla might be my second favourite PS5 game just after Spider-Man, even seasoned gamers will admit it was a beast of a game. The Arabian Peninsula and this Middle East feel is filled with hidden treasures, puzzles, and challenging obstacles. The freedom to roam and discover the world at your own pace is a highlight of Mirage, providing a sense of immersion that fans of the series have come to expect.
The Verdict
Assassin’s Creed Mirage is a compelling addition to the long-running franchise. Its captivating setting, intriguing story, and a combination of history and mythology create a unique and immersive experience. With the power of the PlayStation 5 behind it, the game offers stunning visuals and smooth performance.
While it retains the core elements of the series, Assassin’s Creed Mirage introduces enough fresh ideas to keep the franchise feeling innovative and exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned assassin or a newcomer to the series, Mirage is a journey well worth embarking on, offering a captivating blend of history, myth, and adventure that will leave you eagerly awaiting the next installment.
