Here’s everything we know about Assassin’s Creed Odyssey, including the release date, the latest gameplay details and videos. We got the chance to play the game ourselves, so read our review and our comparison with Origins to find out what we think.
When was Assassin’s Creed Odyssey released?
While many assumed there would be no Assassin’s Creed release in 2018, Ubisoft confirmed at E3 2018 that Assassin’s Creed Odyssey would be released on 5 October 2018.
Which platforms is Assassin’s Creed Odyssey available on?
While Ubisoft didn’t mention platform support during the E3 2018 reveal, the game is set to come to PS4, Xbox One and PC, much like Origins. We also expect support for the high-end PS4 Pro and Xbox One X, allowing us to enjoy Ancient Greece in glorious 4K. Some may be holding out hope for a Nintendo Switch port because Assassin’s Creed on the go sounds incredible, but we’re doubtful that the hardware could power the kind of experience offered by the game. And even if it could, we think it’d be too aggressive on battery life to make it playable when out and about. We’re happy to be proven wrong though, Ubisoft! Weirdly enough, there will be one other way to play the game: on Chrome. Yup, the browser. Google has announced that it’s using the game as a way to test it’s new streaming tech – dubbed Project Stream – and that a limited number of players will be able to sign up for the trial, giving you a way to play Odyssey for free. To take part you’ll need to live in the US and be at least 17. You’ll also need accounts with both Google and Ubisoft and a reliable 25Mbps internet connection, and Google naturally also recommends you use a wired USB gamepad or external mouse. Head to Google’s site to apply to take part if you meet the requirements, and see it in action below – supposedly streaming in 1080p at 60fps:
What should I expect from Assassin’s Creed Odyssey gameplay?
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is set in Ancient Greece in the days before the events of Assassin’s Creed Origins, which technically makes Odyssey a prequel to Origins. What should we expect? Well…
Male and female lead characters
For the first time in the Assassin’s Creed franchise, you’re able to choose between a male and female protagonist. And before all those butt-hurt gamers start complaining about women being in the game, it’s worth noting that Spartan women had a lot more freedom in Sparta compared to other Greek states (and even some modern-day countries!) making it historically accurate. You can take a look at the Gamescom trailers below – one for Alexios, and one for Kassandra.
Dialogue trees
Ubisoft has taken the RPG changes first introduced in Origins and upgraded them for Odyssey. As well as being able to upgrade your gear and skills like in the previous game, you’re also able to dictate how interactions with NPCs play out. You’re able to choose from several answers, and what happens is down to how you respond. You could talk your way out of a fist-fight, or antagonise your enemies. It’s all down to you and your play-style.
New weapons
As shown off in one of the two trailers showcased at E3 2018, Odyssey introduces a bunch of Greek-themed weaponry (including a trident!) along with the re-introduction of ship combat. Ship combat lets you ram into enemy vessels, fire on them with arrows and javelins (optionally flaming) and board other ships to take the fight to them.
Huge battle sequences
Due to the setting of Odyssey, you’ll come across multiple Conquest battles between the Athenians and the Spartans. These take place with or without you, although your input can help turn the tide for your chosen side, and they look incredible. As showcased in the extended gameplay trailer, you’ll cut your way through hundreds of NPCs alongside your Spartan or Athenian brethren with a flurry of combat skills as you try to turn the tide of the battle.
Bounty hunters
Throughout the game, if you stir up enough trouble you’ll draw the attention of bounty hunters. These procedurally-generated enemies will pursue you across the map, often turning up when you’re already in the midst of a tricky fight to make things even tougher. They pack tougher stats and some special abilities like poison attacks, so they’re always a bit of a surprise and can throw a real wrinkle into a fight. In our time with the game we even fought one who brought his pet bear along with him for the fight, so, uh, look out for that. For more on the gameplay, watch our 40-minute hands-on video, featuring a full playthrough of a high-level side quest including a boss, bounty hunters, and some of the new abilities in action:
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey trailers
Take a look at the first deep-dive into the world of Assassin’s Creed Odyssey showcased at E3 2018, including open-world gameplay and combat:
Lewis Painter is a Senior Staff Writer at Tech Advisor. Our resident Apple expert, Lewis covers everything from iPhone to AirPods, plus a range of smartphones, tablets, laptops and gaming hardware. You’ll also find him on the Tech Advisor YouTube channel.
