Game Reviews

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey: A Greek Epic

14 Feb 2024 23 min read

Updated On: February 14, 2024 by What is Esports? Team

Venturing into the heart of Ancient Greece might appear a tad overwhelming at first glance. Believe us, we’ve shared that sensation of being somewhat dwarfed by the grand scale and profound legacy of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey.

Yet, with ample time dedicated to traversing each hidden alcove and historic pathway, we’ve unravelled its enigmatic tales. Our collective wisdom is primed to shepherd you through this magnificent saga; it marries exhilarating escapades with a rich weave of mythology and antiquity.

Immerse yourself fully — let the legends awaken around you!

Key Takeaways

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is a rich blend of historical and mythological elements, allowing players to experience Ancient Greece through intense combat, exploration, and interaction with historical figures like Socrates.
The game offers various transport methods across land and sea for an authentic Greek adventure, alongside expansion packs that introduce new storylines and characters tied to the ancient world.
With its critical acclaim, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey not only delivers captivating gameplay but also sets the stage for future series instalments to explore different periods of history.

Historical and Literary Allusions in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey

The game is filled with references to Greek mythology and literature, immersing players in the rich cultural tapestry of Ancient Greece. From encounters with mythical creatures to quests inspired by Homer’s epic poems, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey brings the stories of the past to life.

Greek Mythology

We dive deep into the heart of Greek mythology with Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, where myth meets history in a vibrant tapestry. Creatures from ancient tales roam the hills and seas; we fight against legendary beasts like the Minotaur and Medusa.

Our journey mirrors that of the heroes of old, embarking on quests that make us feel like we’re part of epic stories from Homer.

Our adventure takes us through a world steeped in legend, where every location oozes with mythological significance. We rub shoulders with iconic characters such as Leonidas and Herodotos, engaging in plots that could have sprung straight out of an epic narrative.

As we navigate this richly woven setting, our actions echo heroic deeds synonymous with Greek mythology.

The Odyssey

Transitioning from the rich world of Greek mythology, we dive into “The Odyssey” as an essential element of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. The game draws heavily on this epic poem attributed to Homer, and players will encounter various references and characters from this timeless story.

As they journey through the game, they will come across familiar names such as Odysseus, Penelope, and the Cyclops Polyphemus. These nods to “The Odyssey” add depth and familiarity to the game’s narrative, creating a captivating experience that resonates with both history enthusiasts and gamers.

Moreover, players will find themselves embarking on their own odyssey within the game – navigating treacherous waters, facing mythical creatures, and overcoming monumental challenges akin to those experienced by Odysseus in his legendary quest.

Argonauts and the Argo

The Argonauts and the Argo play a significant role in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, drawing on Greek mythology as the game guides players through their epic adventure. Players encounter references to Jason and his legendary crew aboard the famous ship, Argo.

This inclusion adds depth to the narrative by integrating mythological elements into the gameplay experience, captivating players with its ties to Ancient Greek history and mythology.

Embracing historical accuracy alongside creative storytelling, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey seamlessly weaves elements of the Argonauts’ tale into its expansive world. The incorporation of this mythological reference enriches the gaming experience, providing an immersive journey that intertwines with iconic tales from Ancient Greece.

As players navigate through these mythical allusions, they uncover a compelling connection between ancient lore and modern gaming excitement.

Sirens

Sirens, those captivating yet deadly creatures from Greek mythology, make a compelling appearance in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. Players encounter these enchanting beings as they sail the Aegean Sea, adding an eerie and thrilling dimension to their epic journey.

The game masterfully weaves the Sirens into its immersive narrative, staying true to their mythological origins while making them a formidable and unforgettable presence in the game world.

These mythical beings serve as a testament to the game’s attention to detail and commitment to bringing Ancient Greece vividly to life.

Prometheus

Prometheus, the Titan known for stealing fire from the gods to give to humanity, plays a significant role in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. In the game, players encounter references and allusions to Prometheus through various quests and characters.

The inclusion of Prometheus adds depth to the narrative and provides an opportunity for players to engage with Greek mythology on a personal level.

As part of its historical and literary allusions, the game effectively brings forth the story of Prometheus, offering gamers an immersive experience that goes beyond mere gameplay.

Gameplay and Its Ties to Greek Culture

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey’s gameplay is steeped in Greek culture, from the intense combat inspired by Spartan warriors to the climbing mechanics that make players feel like they’re scaling the statues of ancient Greek gods.

The game also pays homage to classical art and the male form, while allowing players to explore and traverse the vast open world of Ancient Greece.

Combat

Embark on thrilling battles in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, mastering the art of combat as a skilled mercenary amidst the backdrop of Ancient Greece. Engage in epic clashes against Spartan warriors and mythological creatures, wielding an arsenal of lethal weapons.

The game offers fluid and responsive combat mechanics, allowing players to unleash devastating attacks and perfect their fighting skills within an open-world setting. As players progress through the game, they can customise their fighting style and master both melee and ranged combat techniques to overcome various adversaries.

Immerse yourself in the Peloponnesian War with intense combat scenarios that capture the essence of historical fiction while delivering an action-packed gaming experience. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or new to the adventure genre, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey provides an exhilarating journey through ancient warfare, ensuring every battle is engaging and visually stunning.

Climbing the Greek Gods

To experience the grandeur of Ancient Greece in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, players can indulge in the unparalleled thrill of scaling colossal statues and monuments that pay homage to the Greek pantheon.

The game’s vertical gameplay mechanic allows us to navigate intricate paths leading up to monumental structures, offering breathtaking views and unlocking hidden secrets. As we ascend these awe-inspiring edifices, we gain a sense of reverence for the mythical deities they represent, immersing ourselves deeper into the rich tapestry of Greek mythology woven throughout the game.

In Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, ascending these towering marvels is not just about conquering physical obstacles; it embodies our ascent towards god-like prowess and signifies our journey towards becoming legendary warriors within this epic world steeped in ancient lore.

Greek Art and the Male Form

Climbing the Greek Gods immerses players in the mythic landscape of Ancient Greece, and another way Assassin’s Creed Odyssey brings this world to life is through its representation of Greek art and the male form.

The game beautifully showcases the classical sculptures and paintings that celebrated the idealised male physique. These artistic representations not only serve as visual inspiration but also provide historical context, allowing players to appreciate how physical beauty was revered in ancient Greek society.

In Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, encountering these artworks throughout the game world adds a layer of authenticity to the experience, emphasising the cultural significance of artistic depictions of masculinity in Ancient Greece.

Getting Around Ancient Greece

Sail the Aegean Sea on a majestic ship, engaging in naval battles and exploring the numerous islands scattered throughout the region. The game’s expansive waterways provide an authentic experience of Ancient Greek seafaring.
Utilise horseback riding to traverse the rugged terrain, from verdant hillsides to bustling city streets. The ability to seamlessly transition between land and sea adds depth to the exploration aspect of gameplay.
Make use of fast travel points strategically placed across the map, enabling efficient movement between discovered locations. This feature encourages players to uncover every corner of Ancient Greece at their own pace.
Engage in parkour – like movement mechanics, allowing for dynamic and fluid traversal through urban environments. Ascend ancient structures, leap across rooftops, and embrace the freedom of movement within bustling cityscapes.
Employ various mounts such as legendary creatures like mythical horses or even rideable beasts from Greek mythology, adding an element of fantasy and wonder to your travels throughout the land.
Experience seamless transitions between different modes of transportation, ensuring that no matter where your journey takes you, you can smoothly switch between means of getting around Ancient Greece.

The Story of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey

Embark on a journey through ancient Greece as we explore the setting, characters and plot of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Greek history and mythology as you unravel the mysteries of this epic adventure.

To delve deeper into the captivating story of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, read our full blog post!

Setting and Characters

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey unfolds in the vast and vibrant world of Ancient Greece, where players are immersed in a richly detailed re-creation of the historic setting. The game features a mix of historical figures such as Socrates and mythical creatures, seamlessly blending factual elements with fictional characters.

Players assume the role of either Kassandra or Alexios, navigating their journey through the beautiful landscapes while encountering intriguing personalities along the way. The game’s expansive map encourages exploration, allowing players to uncover the wonders of Ancient Greece at their own pace.

The characters in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey bring depth and complexity to the narrative, each contributing to an immersive experience that combines historical accuracy with thrilling gameplay mechanics.

Plot

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey follows the journey of a mercenary, either Alexios or Kassandra, as they navigate through the tumultuous landscape of Ancient Greece. Delving into a web of political intrigue and personal vendettas, players will encounter historical figures such as Socrates and Hippocrates while charting their own path through the Peloponnesian War.

The game offers multiple branching storylines and complex moral choices that directly impact the plot, ensuring an immersive and engaging narrative experience.

As our adventure continues, we find ourselves embroiled in conflicts between Athens and Sparta, navigating through alliances and betrayals in a bid for control over Ancient Greece’s fate.

Each decision made by players shapes the world around them, reflecting on relationships with other characters and ultimately leading to one of several possible endings. This captivating tale immerses gamers in an intricate tapestry of historical events and mythological encounters unique to Assassin’s Creed Odyssey.

Expansion Packs and Additional Content

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey offers a range of expansion packs and additional content to enhance the gaming experience. Here’s what you can expect:

The Legacy of the First Blade: This expansion introduces new characters, weapons, and storylines that delve deeper into the origins of the Assassin Brotherhood.
The Fate of Atlantis: Players can explore the mythical realm of Atlantis while uncovering secrets and facing legendary foes.
Lost Tales of Greece: This ongoing series delivers free episodic quests that expand on the main storyline and provide additional adventures in Ancient Greece.
New Gear and Outfits: Additional content includes new gear sets, armour, and cosmetic items to customise your character’s appearance and abilities.
Discovery Tour: Experience an educational mode that allows players to explore Ancient Greece without combat, providing historical insights into the game’s setting.

Critical Reception and Future of the Series

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey received critical acclaim for its immersive gameplay and stunning recreation of Ancient Greece. The game’s expansion into the massive open world, filled with historical and fictional elements, has captured the attention of both gamers and experts in the industry.

The future of the series looks promising as it continues to blend historical accuracy with creative storytelling, offering players a rich and engaging experience that bridges gaming with history.

The game’s reception has highlighted its ability to transport players into an epic adventure through vibrant landscapes and compelling narratives. With its success in bringing Ancient Greece to life, there is anticipation for future installments to continue exploring different historical periods while maintaining the captivating gameplay that has become synonymous with the Assassin’s Creed series.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Assassin’s Creed Odyssey immerses players in a vivid and expansive world inspired by Ancient Greece. The game brilliantly weaves historical and literary elements into its gameplay, offering a rich and engaging experience.

With its stunning visuals, compelling storyline, and attention to detail, it’s no wonder that this open-world adventure has captured the hearts of both gaming experts and novices alike.

As players navigate through this Greek epic, they are taken on an unforgettable journey through a time-honoured civilisation that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.