Imo the modern day story is uninteresting after the events of AC3, but the expanded naval combat is so fun as it’s own game that it doesn’t matter. Edward is a fun protagonist and it was shocking to see the AC3 connection once I beat the story as I completely forgot about it. Just don’t go into this game expecting the typical Assassin’s Creed gameplay experience as the tailing / stealth missions are almost an afterthought compared to the pirating / sailing mechanics.