Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is the most commercially successful entry in the franchise. Its successor, which originally was a spin-off for the game, might not be too far behind.
Assassin’s Creed has etched its mark as one of the monumental franchises, renowned in recent years for expansive and engrossing worlds and intricate storylines. However, with Assassin’s Creed Mirage, Ubisoft has indicated a significant shift, which might hold the key to the future trajectory of the series. By returning to the stealth-centered essence of its initial entries, Mirage captures the nostalgia of long-time fans. It emphasizes a strategic decision that might redefine the franchise’s upcoming titles.
Mirage’s commercial performance is undoubtedly robust. Having been crowned as Ubisoft’s “biggest new-gen launch” for the PS5 and Xbox Series S/X, the game has captured the attention of both critics and fans. The sales, on par with former successes like Assassin’s Creed Origins and Odyssey, show Ubisoft has tapped into a goldmine. Perhaps, more importantly, it suggests there’s appetite for more stealth-focused entries, despite its relatively low score on Metacritic.
Thank you all for joining us on Basim's journey in 9th Century Baghdad!
We are thrilled by the response from the community and for embracing our homage to the roots of the AC franchise. #AssassinsCreed pic.twitter.com/KnL2YxGION
— Assassin's Creed (@assassinscreed) October 11, 2023
The move back to the franchise’s roots with Mirage was far from inadvertent. Over the years, despite the success of its most recent titles, especially Valhalla, fans expressed the desire for a more “old-school” experience. Mirage’s shorter and more concentrated storyline, devoid of numerous RPG elements that marked its predecessors, was a response to this demand. It’s a calculated return to a time when stealth, parkour, and assassinations were at the heart of gameplay. And, given the game’s reception, this decision has been a masterstroke.
Reiterating this point, the numbers tell an encouraging tale. Ubisoft confirmed players have spent 479 collective years to parkour moves across in-game city rooftops. The 60 million Leaps of Faith further emphasized the engagement level of the game. Each of these metrics isn’t just a figure but proof that a more focused, stealth-centric gameplay finds favor among players.
While the positive reception of Mirage is a beacon of the potential for future stealth-based games, one can’t help but wonder if Ubisoft could push the envelope further. The sheer scale of Valhalla’s success, despite its divergence from the classic formula, raises a compelling question: What could the outcome be if Ubisoft channeled more funds, resources, and creative energies into creating stealth-focused titles?
Ubisoft supported Valhalla for roughly two years post-launch, releasing multiple post-launch expansions in that span. Can you imagine if Assassin’s Creed: Mirage got the same treatment?
Ubisoft Bordeaux, the studio behind Mirage, showcased passion and creativity with limited resources. The occasional constraint in the game’s assets hints at untapped potential. With increased investment, the quality and depth of stealth-centric titles can reach unprecedented heights, giving players nostalgic and groundbreaking experiences.
Mirage’s undeniable success carries a broader implication for Ubisoft. It points to an untapped market yearning for the series’ return to the traditional stealth mechanisms that once defined it. While Mirage’s sales have impressed, they are the tip of the iceberg.
Ubisoft’s future plans for the franchise, including titles like Assassin’s Creed Nexus VR, AC Red, AC Hexe, and AC Jade, all point toward a diversified approach. This diversified strategy, coupled with a renewed focus on quality stealth-centered games, could cement the franchise’s legacy for years to come.
Based on the success of Assassin’s Creed Mirage, the message to Ubisoft is clear: the future of the franchise could very well lie in its past. A more significant investment in stealth-centric titles, enriched with the essence of the original series, can not only rejuvenate the franchise but also create a legacy that stands the test of time.
As Mirage has shown, the thirst for stealth-driven gameplay is real, and it’s high time Ubisoft quenches it with the elixir of quality and innovation.
Now, if only Ubisoft can release Assassin’s Creed: Mirage on Steam. Then, we’ll find out what the masses think of Basim and his time as the lead character.
