Assassin’s Creed Mirage Hands-Off Preview – Ubisoft has made it abundantly clear that Assassin’s Creed Mirage is about going back and honouring the series’ inaugural outing from way back in 2007. Developed by Ubisoft Bordeaux with assistance from 11 other studios, Assassin’s Creed Mirage is an emphatic shift in terms of scope compared to 2020’s Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. That sounds like a negative, but it isn’t; it just means Ubisoft is looking to make a more intimate Creed than the sprawling RPG juggernauts of the past six years.
The three key pillars in the game outlined during a digital preview that PSU attender are Assassinations, Parkour, and Stealth, which have been the beating heart of the franchise since 2007. You’ll still be parkouring your way across rooftops as expected, while Basim has access to the latest technology to aid him in surreptitiously stalking and eliminating his target. Oh, and if there was any doubt that the game’s primary setting will be lacking in size, then don’t worry; it’s comparable to Paris or Constantinople from previous Assassin’s Creed titles.
Ubisoft was keen to point out that Assassin’s Creed Mirage weaves a self-contained narrative that takes place during a vital timeline in the series’ titular organisation, although it does sound like you can take a leap (of faith) right into Basim’s even if you aren’t all that familiar with the franchise’s increasingly complex lore. It’s a ‘coming of age’ tale that explores the tenants and role of the Creed like no game has touched on before. Aside from Basim himself, who starts out as a street thief and is haunted by nightmares, players will also brush shoulders with fellow thief and friend Nehal, as well as a key figure in Ali Ibn Muhammad.
So, what of the three pillars? Well, parkour is described as easy to access and master, while stealth is a reliable tool that is built on a foundation of investigation, hunting, striking, and evasion. Basim won’t have an easy time of it though, as Ubisoft confirmed that its AI system has been totally revamped, while stealth assassination animations have also been totally rebuilt for Mirage. In another nod to the original, Basim also has access to throwing knives, with smoke bombs and other tools also available.
Combat returns and refreshed, and is meant to be a backup when stealth fails. Basim possesses a ‘swift and efficient’ moveset, with new core fight animations designed specifically for this title.
One gameplay sequence we were showcased involved Basim scouting the area with his eagle companion, Enkidu. Sounds familiar? Well, it is. However, this time there are enemy archers that will target your feathered friend, so you must dispatch them first if you are to get a lay of the land. Basim is then shown to stealthily make his way through the compound and pick off the archers, thus allowing his eagle to pinpoint key areas. It’s a nice twist on the usual scouting mechanic, and ensures that you must be always vigilant, even when you’re not looking through Basim’s eyes.
We also see some classic examples of blending in. To eliminate the archers, Basim uses the crowds to hide in plain sight, where he makes good use of blow darts to disable enemies and distract their comrades. It’s classic Assassin’s Creed shenanigans. There’s also a really interesting new mechanic that allows players to target multiple enemies before seemingly teleporting to each one for an instant kill. I’m not sure what this attack actually is, but it looked great all the same.
Assassin’s Creed Mirage is already looking impressive. Visually, Baghdad is stunning, with gorgeous sunsets and bustling market places laying down an immersive atmosphere, while the gameplay looks like a fine balance between old and new. Yes, it’s honouring the original game, but it’s clear Mirage is bringing plenty of surprises with it. Hopefully the story holds up and the core loop doesn’t disappoint. For now, I’m definitely optimistic about the future of the series.
Assassin’s Creed Mirage is due out on PS5, PS4, PC, Xbox Series X/S, and Xbox One on October 12, 2023. PSU attended a digital event held by Ubisoft for this hands-off preview.