You play as Altair, a disgraced 12th-century assassin with a hit list that includes key figures in the Third Crusade. To be precise, the year is 1191, and gameplay alternates between conflict-embroiled Jerusalem, Damascus and Acre (though these locations open to the player gradually). In classic video game fashion, there's a vast conspiracy which unfolds as the story plays out. History buffs rejoice - according to Ubisoft, the story and environments follow are historically accurate.
A leap of faith, in the literal sense
Sometimes it's best to flee - run like you stole it, Altair!
At first, character movement seems ripped directly from Prince of Persia, with light-footed jumping from roof to roof and fluid movements over obstacles. In free-run mode, Altair shares the acrobatic characteristic as the Prince, and he pulls off the moves with an uncanny deftness. Assassin's Creed, however, tones down the fantastic moves - don't expect to see 20-step wall runs. Instead, look for new layers in character movement. Controls correspond to individual body parts and are context-sensitive. Depending on the situation, a single key may cause Altair to grasp for the top of a wall or push off a ledge, for instance.
Making chase in a bustling village center
Seems pretty risky just to get a good view
Running isn't always the best decision, and there are often a number of ways to get from A to B in the open world. As an assassin, it's often best to lay low, and that's where stealth comes into play. Blending into the crowd may be the best defense when traveling, and videos show Altair doing his best impression of a monk to escape danger. AI plays a crucial role in these scenarios. Keep to yourself, and a crowd will ignore you; agitate citizens, and those around you may turn hostile in a hurry.
Avoid detection by moving above the crowd
There's plenty of acrobatic action to be had
When it's time to abandon passivity in the face of danger, you may immediately switch to a heightened state of alert. Ready for combat but no longer blending in with villagers, Altair will move quicker but be more easily recognized by hostiles. From here, it's a step away from full-on combat. This is where gameplay departs most starkly from the exaggerated swordplay in Prince of Persia. Altair has at his disposal some offensive options: fists, daggers, sword and a hidden blade (in place of a missing finger for full dramatic effect).
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