The Assassin's Creed series, a cornerstone of action-adventure gaming, has experienced a decisive shift over the past few years. Initiated by Ubisoft's 2017 release, Assassin's Creed Origins, the franchise ventured into the realm of role-playing games (RPGs). In this modern RPG era of Assassin's Creed, another chapter is about to unfold as Assassin's Creed Valhalla gears up to join the Xbox Game Pass collection on January 9th.
Assassin's Creed Valhalla's impending arrival on Game Pass has reignited discussions among fans regarding the recent evolution of the series. There's a growing divide between those who embrace the expansive RPG approach and those who yearn for the series' earlier, more focused incarnations. Interestingly, fans of the classic style have not been left behind entirely, thanks to the release of Assassin's Creed Mirage, a game that harks back to the series' stealth roots, albeit as a budget spin-off rather than a primary release.
Valhalla, in particular, has garnered attention and curiosity, especially with its engaging Viking theme and stunning settings. It largely adheres to the framework established by its predecessors, Origins and Odyssey, but there's a compelling draw to Valhalla that has piqued the interest of many, prompting a temptation to try it out, especially now that it's more accessible via Xbox Game Pass. Our dedicated reviewer, PJ, gave Valhalla an enthusiastic review back in 2020, a sentiment that is shared by quite a few fans who have been captivated by these expansive game worlds.
Next week's Game Pass debut could potentially be the first Assassin's Creed RPG experience for some. The series has certainly come a long way from its initial entry, introducing players to historic open worlds filled with quests, customization, and a narrative depth that aligns with RPG standards. The switch from action-focused, linear gameplay to expansive, player-driven exploration has undoubtedly marked a new era for Assassin's Creed, one that Ubisoft seems keen to continue developing.
In addition to Valhalla, January's additions to the Game Pass library include several other titles that promise to enrich the gaming experience for subscribers. Yet, the spotlight remains on Assassin's Creed Valhalla, a game that not only serves as a showcase for the capabilities of the Series X console but also represents the zenith of the series' modern RPG transformation.
As players anticipate the opportunity to explore the Norse lands of Valhalla through Game Pass, the conversation inevitably turns to the future of the series. Many questions abound: Will Ubisoft maintain this RPG trajectory, or might they choose to revisit and revitalize the more traditional gameplay elements beloved by long-time fans?
Regardless of the direction, the Assassin's Creed franchise continues to hold a significant place in the gaming landscape. Whether it's the lush landscapes of ancient Egypt in Origins, the epic odysseys across Greece in Odyssey, or the fierce Viking invasions in Valhalla, each game has contributed to an ever-expanding universe that captures the imagination of players worldwide.
For those who have never ventured into the series' recent RPG offerings, Valhalla's availability on Game Pass is an enticing opportunity to experience the grandeur and depth that have come to define modern Assassin's Creed titles. And for devoted fans and critics alike, Assassin's Creed Valhalla presents another chapter in the ongoing debate about what lies at the heart of this iconic series—a debate that seems set to continue as new titles are developed and released in the years to come.
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