Assassin's Creed® Syndicate

Assassin's Creed® Syndicate immerses players in a richly detailed Victorian London, featuring twin protagonists Jacob and Evie Frye. The game offers a fresh take on the franchise with the introduction of a grappling hook for fast traversal, gang warfare mechanics, and a dynamic open world filled with atmospheric streets and historic landmarks. Players appreciate the freedom to explore and engage in varied activities such as liberating boroughs, combat, and stealth missions. The dual-protagonist approach adds charm, with Evie's stealth gameplay often preferred over Jacob's brawling style.

Despite its strengths, the game suffers from technical issues including crashes and bugs, particularly with its DLCs like Jack the Ripper and The Last Maharaja. Storyline and character development receive mixed reviews, with some finding the narrative lighter and less engaging than previous titles. However, the game's overall design, voice acting, and immersive setting make it a worthy entry in the series, especially when purchased at discounted prices.

Highlights

Players praise the immersive Victorian London setting with its atmospheric streets and detailed environments. The grappling hook mechanic enhances traversal, making exploration fluid and enjoyable. The dual protagonists, Jacob and Evie Frye, provide varied gameplay styles, with Evie's stealth missions standing out. Combat is engaging and fast-paced, while gang warfare adds strategic depth. The soundtrack and voice acting are also noted for enhancing the experience. Side activities like liberating territories, historical missions, and collectibles enrich gameplay and extend playtime.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on technical issues, including frequent bugs, crashes, and freezing, especially on PC versions and in DLC content. The story is often described as light and less compelling compared to earlier Assassin's Creed titles, with some players finding the characters less memorable. Parkour mechanics receive mixed feedback, with some preferring the fluidity of previous games like Unity. Additionally, repetitive mission structures and occasional AI shortcomings detract from immersion. The game's requirement for online connectivity and mandatory updates frustrate some players.