Assassin’s Creed Mirage

PLAYED ON: PC via Epic Games Store

This took some time but I finally came around to play Assassin’s Creed Mirage and finish it. This was lowkey one of the games I was looking forward to playing in 2023, being a longtime Assassin’s Creed fan.

Assassin's Creed Mirage takes us back to what made the series great in the first place. Set in the vibrant streets of ninth-century Baghdad, Mirage follows the story of Basim Ibn Ishaq, a former street thief turned assassin on a mission to unravel the secrets of the Order of Ancients.

First off, about the game’s setting. Baghdad in Mirage is just amazing. The city feels alive with its bustling markets, intricate architecture, and rich history, as you navigate through the maze of streets and rooftops. The map size of the game feels perfect for me and the game also doesn’t force you to explore and visit every corner of the map, unlike AC Valhalla.

"So many battle and so few scars Basim. What's your secret?" - Ubba "I don't get hit!" - Basim "Aha! The simplest strategies are the best." - Ubba

This conversation between Ubba & Basim (was during a battle arc) in AC Valhalla makes sense now. In Mirage, Basim takes more damage from enemy attacks and fighting many enemies at once is harder, hence you, as a player, are meant to choose to use stealth around guards and dodge their attacks when in combat. Mirage brings back the classic Assassin's Creed vibe with a focus on stealth and strategy. Playing as Basim, you'll need to use your wits to outsmart your enemies, whether it's sneaking past guards or planning the perfect assassination. And let me tell you, there's nothing quite like the satisfaction of pulling off a flawless takedown without anyone noticing.

Courtesy of Ubisoft's GIFY Page

But it's not all about just sneaking around. Mirage also gives you plenty of tools to play with, from throwing knives to sleep darts, allowing you to approach each situation in your own style. Plus, the nonlinear structure of the game encourages exploration, so you can make the city your playground. Hand-to-hand combat is present but stealth is the preferred approach in most scenarios.

The biggest letdown in terms of gameplay was the locked doors everywhere found in the assassination/blackbox missions. It annoyed me a lot as it forced me to take a certain path to complete the mission. But it depends on how you like to play.

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The game's graphics, especially during the cutscenes, felt not-so-good. Even though it has the vibes of AC Origins, it still feels like a DLC of AC Valhalla, in terms of the gameplay mechanics and graphics in some moments.

In-Game Screenshots taken by us

As for the story; Basim's journey from a lowly street thief to a seasoned assassin is one heck of a ride. Sure, some of the supporting characters could use a bit more depth, but Basim himself is a compelling protagonist with a lot of layers to uncover. And as you unravel the mysteries of the Order of Ancients, you'll find yourself drawn deeper into the intrigue of ninth-century Baghdad and Basim’s actual past. If you’ve played AC Valhalla, you’ll know what to expect but that mystery around Basim’s story still feels intriguing as you play. Nevertheless, the ending for underwhelming for me or maybe I was expecting too much 😅

Now the best thing about this game - the music. Brendan Angelides did an amazing job! I LOVED the music of AC Mirage & it just elevated the whole experience of the game. The opening music (of AC’s 15th Anniversary), the whole game’s music and everything in between, were top-notch.

TSHC Score: 8.2/10

CONCLUSION:

Assassin's Creed Mirage is a welcome return to form for the series. With its emphasis on stealth, exploration, and a vibrant historical setting, Mirage offers a compelling experience that may not be perfect but certainly resonates with many players.

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