Assassin’s Creed is a series that has been around since 2007, and it has undergone significant changes throughout the years. The latest addition to the franchise is Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, which was released in November 2020. With a new setting, storyline, and gameplay features, many fans are wondering if this is the best game of the series yet. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Assassin’s Creed Valhalla and see how it compares to the other games in the series.
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is set in England during the Viking age, and players take on the role of Eivor, a Viking warrior who becomes embroiled in the conflict between the Saxons and the Norse. The game has an open-world structure, and players are free to explore the vast landscapes of England, from the bustling cities to the rolling countryside.
One of the most significant changes in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is the combat system. The game features a new dual-wielding mechanic that allows players to wield two weapons simultaneously. The combat system is more visceral and impactful than in previous games, and it adds a new layer of strategy to the game. Players must carefully time their attacks and dodges to defeat their enemies, and they can also use various abilities and techniques to gain the upper hand in battle.
Another new feature in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is the settlement mechanic. Players must build and upgrade their own settlement, which serves as a hub for various activities, such as crafting, trading, and recruiting new allies. The settlement adds a new dimension to the game, and it gives players a sense of ownership over their progress in the game.
The storyline of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is also a significant departure from the previous games in the series. The game focuses on the conflict between the Saxons and the Norse, and it explores the themes of conquest, colonization, and cultural identity. The story is told through a series of quests and missions, which are tied together by a central narrative that reveals the mysteries behind the hidden world of the Assassins and the Templars.
So, is Assassin’s Creed Valhalla the best game of the series yet? The answer is not a simple yes or no. While it has many features and improvements that make it a strong contender for the title, it also has some drawbacks that might make it less appealing to some players.
One of the strengths of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is the setting. England during the Viking age is a fascinating and immersive world, full of historical detail and cultural richness. The game captures the atmosphere of the time period, from the harsh landscapes to the complex social structures of the Norse and Saxon societies. The game also features a cast of memorable characters, from Eivor, the protagonist, to a host of supporting characters that add depth and complexity to the story.
Another strength of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is the combat system. The new dual-wielding mechanic adds a level of depth and strategy to the game, and it makes combat more exciting and engaging. The game also offers a wide range of abilities and techniques that players can use to customize their playstyle and adapt to different situations.
The settlement mechanic is also a significant improvement over previous games in the series. It gives players a sense of progress and accomplishment, as they build and upgrade their own community. The settlement also offers various activities and quests that add to the game’s replay value and keep players engaged in the world.
However, there are also some drawbacks to Assassin’s Creed Valhalla that might make it less appealing to some players. One of the most significant criticisms of the game is its length. The game is vast and sprawling, with hundreds of hours of content to explore. While this might be a selling point for some players , others might find it overwhelming or tedious. The game’s story is also criticized for being too long and meandering, with some players finding it difficult to stay invested in the narrative.
Another drawback of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is the game’s technical issues. The game was plagued with bugs and glitches at launch, and some players experienced significant performance issues. While many of these issues have been addressed in subsequent updates, some players may still encounter problems with the game’s performance.
In conclusion, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is a strong addition to the series, with many features and improvements that make it a standout game. The setting, combat system, and settlement mechanic are all highlights of the game, and they add new dimensions to the franchise. However, the game’s length, story, and technical issues may make it less appealing to some players. Ultimately, whether or not Assassin’s Creed Valhalla is the best game of the series is a matter of personal preference. It’s a game that’s worth playing for fans of the series and newcomers alike, but it may not be the perfect game for everyone.
