This is where the legendary series first really began. While it does have a lot of the key elements that would go on to define the Assassin's Creed series as we know it today, the game isn't exactly what I would call "polished."
While elements of the well known parkour system are in place here, the world in the game is pretty bland and not all that interesting to explore, especially when you compare it to the more lived-in, vibrant settings of later games in the series.
The clunky controls, often awkward camera, and buggy AI, especially when it comes to the enemy's detection system, often break what little emersion the game has managed to create and reminds you that you are playing a game. The pacing also feels a little off at times, with slow, dull sequences taking place outside of the simulation that breaks up the plot, something most of the AC games suffered from beginning here and going up through Black Flag.
That isn't to say the game is entirely bad, however. It does a good job of laying the groundwork for later games in the franchise and introducing players to the systems and mechanics the series would become known for. And while the pacing does get broken up at times by the aforementioned real-world segments, the story the game tells is quite compelling and helped to set a good standard for the series.
Overall, while I wouldn't recommend paying anywhere close to full price for it if you can get it digitally on sale or find it at your local thrift store or used games shop for $5, I'd say go for it. Its also worth playing if you're looking to do a full replay of the series or are looking to play through the AC franchise in order for the first time.
While elements of the well known parkour system are in place here, the world in the game is pretty bland and not all that interesting to explore, especially when you compare it to the more lived-in, vibrant settings of later games in the series.
The clunky controls, often awkward camera, and buggy AI, especially when it comes to the enemy's detection system, often break what little emersion the game has managed to create and reminds you that you are playing a game. The pacing also feels a little off at times, with slow, dull sequences taking place outside of the simulation that breaks up the plot, something most of the AC games suffered from beginning here and going up through Black Flag.
That isn't to say the game is entirely bad, however. It does a good job of laying the groundwork for later games in the franchise and introducing players to the systems and mechanics the series would become known for. And while the pacing does get broken up at times by the aforementioned real-world segments, the story the game tells is quite compelling and helped to set a good standard for the series.
Overall, while I wouldn't recommend paying anywhere close to full price for it if you can get it digitally on sale or find it at your local thrift store or used games shop for $5, I'd say go for it. Its also worth playing if you're looking to do a full replay of the series or are looking to play through the AC franchise in order for the first time.