Introduction
Ubisoft, a prominent game development company, has been known for their popular franchises such as Assassins Creed and Breakpoint. However, there have been growing concerns among gamers about the direction Ubisoft is taking in terms of game mechanics and focus. This article aims to provide an honest critique of Ubisoft games and their development strategies.
The Love-Hate Relationship with Assassin’s Creed: A Look at the Parkour
Many gamers have experienced a love-hate relationship with certain video game franchises. While these games often have great concepts and innovative ideas, they sometimes fall short of expectations. One franchise that I feel compelled to discuss is Assassin’s Creed. Having played nearly every entry in the series, with the exception of one and Rogue, I can confidently say that Assassin’s Creed has its ups and downs, but there is one aspect that truly shines – the parkour.
The Importance of Parkour
When it comes to Assassin’s Creed, I find myself caring less about the story and more about the parkour mechanics. The parkour element is what initially drew me to the game and made me fall in love with it. In order to truly appreciate the evolution of the parkour in Assassin’s Creed, let’s take a step back and revisit the second and third entries in the series – Assassin’s Creed 2 and Brotherhood.
Assassin’s Creed 2 and Brotherhood: The Golden Era of Parkour
Recently, I decided to replay Assassin’s Creed 2, and I must admit that while the game may feel a bit outdated in terms of controls, the parkour mechanics are still some of the best in the series. These games offered a level of control over the character’s movements that was unparalleled at the time. The flow of the parkour was smooth and seamless, allowing players to traverse the rooftops and streets of Renaissance Italy with ease.
The Decline in Parkour Flow
However, as the series progressed, particularly in Revelations, I noticed a significant decline in the fluidity of the parkour. While it can be argued that the character’s age in the game, being around 80 years old, justifies the occasional pauses and trips, it doesn’t make sense in the context of Assassin’s Creed 2 and Brotherhood. For me, this break in flow interrupted the enjoyment of the parkour experience.
Still Great, but Not Perfect
Despite the decline in parkour flow, Assassin’s Creed still manages to deliver a solid parkour experience. The mechanics are still good, but they are not perfect. It’s important to remember that the first game in the series, Assassin’s Creed, was released a long time ago, and it was the foundation upon which the parkour mechanics were built. As the series has evolved, so too have the parkour mechanics, with some missteps along the way.
Assassin’s Creed has had its fair share of hits and misses, but the parkour mechanics have always been a standout feature. While the series may not have achieved perfection in this aspect, it has undoubtedly set a high bar for other games to follow. As a fan, I am excited to see how the parkour evolves in future iterations of the franchise and hope that it continues to be a defining element of the Assassin’s Creed experience.
The Importance of Manual Jump in Assassins Creed Games
Assassins Creed is a popular video game series known for its immersive open-world gameplay. Throughout the various installments of the franchise, players have encountered different mechanics and abilities. However, one particular mechanic, the manual jump, holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers. In this article, we will explore the significance of the manual jump and why its removal in recent games has left fans longing for its return.
Enhanced Mobility and Speed
The manual jump in Assassins Creed games provided players with enhanced mobility and speed. It allowed them to bypass climbing animations or take shortcuts to reach their destinations quickly. The ability to jump directly onto platforms or scale walls effortlessly gave a sense of fluidity and agility to the gameplay. Players could strategize and find alternate routes, making navigation more intuitive and enjoyable.
Mistakes and Predictive Systems
Even in the best of games, mistakes are bound to happen. Whether it’s a miscalculation by the player or an error in the system trying to predict their movement, the manual jump acted as a saving grace. By grabbing onto a nearby ledge or obstacle while jumping, players could avoid potential harm by falling on concrete floors or wasting time on failed attempts. This mechanic proved invaluable in improving gameplay and reducing frustration.
A Sense of Empowerment
The removal of the manual jump mechanic from Assassins Creed games has left many players feeling a sense of disempowerment. The ability to manually control jumps and navigate the environment with precision gave players a feeling of agency and control. It was a skill that players could master and use creatively to overcome challenges. With its removal, the games have shifted towards a more automated approach, diminishing the sense of accomplishment and personal skill.
Yearning for the Past
As the latest installment, Assassins Creed Mirage, approaches, there is a growing anticipation among players for a return to the past mechanics that made the earlier games so beloved. While the addition of new mechanics, such as Corner swings, may excite some, the longing for the manual jump remains strong. Fans reminisce about the beauty and simplicity of the older games, where manual jumps were a staple. They long for the days when the gameplay mechanics were more player-driven and skill-based.
While the newer games may offer more advanced graphics and complex storytelling, the removal of the manual jump mechanic highlights the importance of simplicity and player agency. The ability to manually control jumps brought a unique charm to the gameplay experience and showcased the creativity and skill of the player. As fans eagerly wait for the release of Assassins Creed Mirage, they hope for a nod to the past and the reintroduction of the manual jump, a mechanic that holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers.
The Controls and Depth of Assassins Creed
Assassins Creed is a popular video game franchise known for its immersive gameplay and historical settings. One of the main reasons why players are drawn to the series is the fact that they have more control and depth compared to other games.
More Control, More Depth
Unlike many other games where the movements and interactions are limited, Assassins Creed offers players a wide range of control options. It allows players to perform various actions such as harassing civilians, beating up opponents, and executing stunning leaps from rooftop to rooftop. This level of control adds a layer of realism and excitement to the gameplay that keeps players engaged.
Inspiring YouTube Content
The impact of Assassins Creed’s immersive experience is evident in the content produced by YouTubers. One highly recommended YouTuber, White Light, recently made a video about Assassins Creed as a whole. He delved into the game’s control mechanics and explained them in great detail. It was refreshing to finally hear someone acknowledge and discuss the aspects that players have been complaining about for years.
An Era of Complaints
Even in the early days of Assassins Creed, players expressed their dissatisfaction with certain gameplay elements. Some players would go as far as writing essays in the comment sections of videos just to express their frustration. The lack of control and depth in the gameplay was a prominent issue at the time.
A Change in Parkour Mechanics
After the Ezio Trilogy, the developers attempted to simplify the parkour mechanics in Assassins Creed 3. They introduced a single button control for parkour movements. While this change made it easier to perform parkour actions, it also created some frustrating moments. Players found themselves constantly climbing on tables and barrels and struggling to climb down. However, the addition of tree parkour added a new dimension to the gameplay, although it was more restricted compared to urban settings.
The Ever-Evolving Series
Assassins Creed has come a long way since its inception. The franchise has evolved and improved its control and depth with each installment. It has taken player feedback into consideration, constantly striving to provide a more immersive gaming experience.
The control and depth offered by Assassins Creed have played a significant role in its success. The game allows players to have more agency, enabling them to perform a wide range of actions and explore virtual worlds in a more realistic way. The series continues to evolve, and players eagerly await the next release, hoping for even greater control and depth in their gaming experience.
An Overview of the Assassins Creed Game Series
Assassins Creed III: The Appeal of the Little Settlements
Assassins Creed III, though not considered the best game in the series, had a few redeeming qualities. One aspect that stood out for many players was the option to build side settlements and complete missions for the inhabitants. These missions provided players with bonuses and money in return for their assistance. However, what truly made this game enjoyable were the well-developed characters. The experience of helping and listening to them added depth and immersion to the gameplay.
Assassins Creed IV: The Pirate’s Dream
Assassins Creed IV: Black Flag is widely regarded as one of the best games in the series, particularly for those seeking a pirate-themed adventure. The standout feature of this game was the exhilarating ship combat, which captivated players. Sailing the open seas while being serenaded by your crew singing sea shanties created an enchanting atmosphere. The waves crashing against your ship further enhanced the experience. The music was so alluring that many players still listen to these sea shanties on YouTube, sometimes even adding the sound of waves in the background to recreate the complete ambiance.
Assassins Creed Unity: A Memorable Yet Lacking Game
Assassins Creed Unity held its ground as one of the most popular games in the series for a while. Thanks to its impressive gameplay showcased on YouTube, it created a strong desire among players to reinstall the game and enjoy it once more. Despite the initial excitement, this game lacked memorable missions and failed to leave a lasting impact. While it had its moments, it paled in comparison to previous installments, and there were fewer remarkable aspects worth mentioning.
Assassins Creed Syndicate: A Disappointing Experience
Assassins Creed Syndicate marked a significant downturn in the series, with many considering it a low point. This game failed to deliver on several fronts, leaving players dissatisfied. It would be difficult to even begin listing the numerous flaws in this game. While not every decision made by the developers was terrible, the overall experience was marred by a lack of innovation and a significant decline in quality compared to its predecessors.
The Assassins Creed game series has had its ups and downs. While some installments, like Assassins Creed III and Assassins Creed IV, managed to captivate players with their unique features and immersive experiences, others, such as Assassins Creed Unity and Assassins Creed Syndicate, fell short of expectations. Despite their flaws, these games still have a dedicated fan base, and the popularity of the series continues to grow.
Exploring the Flaws of the Assassin’s Creed Series
The Stealth versus Parkour Debate
The Assassin’s Creed series has always been known for its stealth mechanics, allowing players to silently take down their targets without getting detected. However, in recent installments, the stealth aspect seems to have taken a backseat. While the stealth mechanics are still functional, they lack the challenge and depth that fans of the series have come to love. On the other hand, the parkour mechanics have seen a decline in quality, with the introduction of tools like grappling hooks that do most of the work for the player.
From AC Origins to Valhalla: A Cramped Journey
As the series has progressed from “AC Origins” to “Valhalla,” it is evident that the games have strayed from their original path. While “AC Origins” was still decent and had a compelling story and character, it began to lose the essence of what made the series great. The introduction of open-world exploration and RPG elements shifted the focus away from the core assassin gameplay. While many players enjoy these changes, it has left some long-time fans yearning for the more traditional Assassin’s Creed experience.
The Disappointing AC Odyssey
One of the most divisive entries in the series is “AC Odyssey.” While it is set in ancient Greece, a captivating setting for many players, it introduced some controversial changes. Gone were the days of effortless assassinations, as players now had to rely on specific builds and tutorials to successfully take down their targets. This departure from the series’ roots left many fans disappointed and frustrated. However, there were still aspects to love, such as the engaging main story that delved into the player character’s family history.
Valhalla’s Parkour Woes
Out of all the recent Assassin’s Creed games, “Valhalla” has received the most criticism for its parkour mechanics. Unlike its predecessors, “Valhalla” lacks structures and buildings to climb, making traversal a tedious and uninspiring experience. The world feels vast, yet devoid of opportunities for the player to utilize the parkour abilities. Even if the game were to incorporate the mechanics from the original Assassin’s Creed, it wouldn’t make much of a difference without ample structures to scale and explore.
The Worries for AC Mirage
With the upcoming release of “AC Mirage,” there is a sense of apprehension among fans. Ubisoft has proven to be excellent at marketing their products, often creating hype around features that end up being mere gimmicks. The return of social stealth in “Valhalla” was touted as a major selling point, only to disappoint players who found that it had little to no practical use. These concerns are further amplified by Ubisoft’s track record, such as the underwhelming “Ghost Recon Breakpoint” that failed to live up to expectations.
The Assassin’s Creed series has seen a shift in focus from its core stealth mechanics to open-world exploration and RPG elements. While these changes have resonated with some players, they have left others longing for the classic Assassin’s Creed experience. Issues such as lackluster parkour mechanics and the dilution of stealth have further added to the series’ decline in recent years. As fans eagerly anticipate “AC Mirage,” it remains to be seen whether Ubisoft can deliver a game
A Disappointing Tactical Game: A Review
When I first heard about the tactical game where players are hunted by an Elite Squad of wolves and a UAV, I was excited for an intense and immersive experience. However, the reality did not match my expectations. The game lacked the thrill and challenges promised, leaving much to be desired.
Deceptive UAV and Ineffective Enemy Patrols
In the game, the UAV was supposed to add an extra layer of difficulty by constantly monitoring your movements. However, it turned out to be a mere annoyance. Simply lying in the grass made players invisible to the enemies. The enemy patrols were rendered useless as they seemed oblivious to your presence. Moreover, the incessant chatter among the enemies alerted players to their locations, eliminating any sense of danger or surprise.
Helicopters: The Game Breaker
The inclusion of helicopters in the game was a major disappointment. These vehicles were broken and made traversing the game world effortless. Players could easily bypass any obstacle or danger by quickly reaching their objectives with helicopters. This completely undermined the concept of being hunted, as players had the freedom to move around without any consequences.
The Spartan Mod: Restoring the Game’s Potential
All hope is not lost for this game. There is a mod called Spartan mod that can drastically improve the gaming experience. This mod alters enemy behavior, enhances gun mechanics, and implements other changes that make the game more challenging and immersive. While the mod offers an amazing experience, players still need to self-impose limitations if they truly wish to feel the thrill of being hunted.
The Need for Game Design Understanding
One of the main problems with Ubisoft games, including this tactical game, is the lack of a visionary and passionate game director. It seems that no one truly understands or plays games with a passion. This absence of a dedicated creative force leads to disappointing and underwhelming gameplay experiences that fail to captivate players.
An Honest Critique of Ubisoft Games and their Development Strategies
Restrictive Gameplay and Hand-Holding
One of the major criticisms directed towards Ubisoft is their tendency to restrict gameplay and hold the player’s hand too tightly. This phenomenon, known as the “Rita proof Square law,” prevents players from engaging in actions that could potentially result in minor consequences. Even a slight action that may cause a 1% loss of health is not allowed. This over-restriction of gameplay can be clearly observed in Assassins Creed Syndicate, among other titles.
Copying Mechanics from Other Games
Another issue that Ubisoft is often accused of is the incorporation of mechanics and ideas from other popular games. This trend can be witnessed in both Assassins Creed and Breakpoint, where the parkour mechanics and team dynamics resemble those found in other successful games. This leads to a lack of originality and creativity, making Ubisoft appear unoriginal and not focused on developing unique gameplay experiences.
Following Trends, Not Innovating
The entire gaming industry is guilty of following trends to some extent, but Ubisoft seems to be relying heavily on this strategy. Instead of focusing on developing mechanics that truly suit the game, Ubisoft seems to be more concerned with aligning themselves with the current trends. This approach may lead to games that lack a unique identity and fail to stand out from the crowd.
An Unfulfilled Promise: Mirage
Mirage is an upcoming game that many people are eagerly anticipating. However, based on the gameplay trailers, it appears that the parkour mechanics remain unchanged. While the game seems to be a step in the right direction, it is not quite there yet compared to Valhalla. The impressive map with a dense city full of verticality is a positive aspect, but the lack of innovation in the parkour mechanics raises doubts about whether Mirage will truly deliver something special.
Is the Quickest Tape Better?
The gaming industry is constantly evolving, with new releases and updates captivating players from all around the world. However, not every new addition to the gaming world is a hit. One such example is the attempt to incorporate the “quickest tape” feature, which, like Ghost Recon, may not live up to the expectations of providing an exceptional gaming experience.
Missing the Mark: Fear Takedown
The teaser trailer had gamers hopeful for a fear takedown mechanic similar to the one seen in Batman: Arkham Knight or Ghost of Tsushima. Unfortunately, it appears that this feature falls short in execution. Rather than seamlessly executing a fear takedown, the character seems to teleport around, lacking the special element that made the original mechanic so captivating. It’s disheartening to see such a potentially game-changing feature fail to meet its potential.
A Potential Obstacle for Gamers
As players, we often rely on various gaming mechanics to enhance our experience. However, it seems that this fear takedown mechanic might just be another element that we’ll have to “Nerf” or disable in order to fully enjoy the game. This raises concerns and leaves us questioning the future of gaming. Will the industry continue to prioritize subpar mechanics that need to be modified, or will we see a return to the immersive and flawless experiences we’ve come to expect from AAA games?
A Dark Age for Gaming?
Based on recent developments, it seems like we may be entering a dark age for gaming, at least in terms of AAA releases. The lackluster execution of promising features and mechanics leaves fans disappointed and yearning for more. It’s disheartening to witness the decline of what used to be an industry known for pushing boundaries and delivering unforgettable experiences. The hope for a brighter future within the gaming industry is slowly fading.
A Need for Reflection and Improvement
It’s clear that there are areas in which developers can improve. Perhaps, instead of focusing on unnecessary features, they should invest more time in perfecting the core aspects of a game. Providing a solid foundation and honing the gameplay mechanics could result in a more satisfying experience for players. It’s time for the gaming industry to reflect on its current trajectory and find ways to recapture the magic that once made it so beloved.
A Plea for Unity
In this video, I express my concerns and hopes for the future of gaming. While I may have focused more on certain aspects than others, the intention remains the same to highlight the need for improvement and a return to the quality and innovation that once defined the industry. Let’s come together as gamers and demand better, holding developers accountable for their creations. Remember to like and subscribe if you share these sentiments. Together, we can help shape the future of gaming.
Innovation is crucial in the world of gaming, but it is equally important to retain mechanics that have proven to enhance gameplay. Crisp animations, electric grabs, and manual jumps all brought an extra layer of excitement, immersion, and efficiency to older games. By reintroducing these mechanics, developers can create more immersive and enjoyable experiences for players, ensuring that the magic of gaming continues to captivate audiences for years to come.
The tactical game, in its current state, leaves much to be desired. The ineffective UAV, broken helicopters, and lack of a visionary game director all contribute to the disappointing gameplay experience. However, with the use of the Spartan mod and a more dedicated game development approach, this game has the potential to provide the thrilling and immersive experience it initially promised.
Ubisoft, despite its popularity and success, has faced criticism for its restrictive gameplay, borrowing mechanics from other games, and excessive focus on following trends. While it is important to note that these are subjective opinions, they highlight concerns that many gamers have about the direction Ubisoft is going. As players, we hope that Ubisoft will start focusing more on mechanics that truly suit their games and foster innovation, providing unique and memorable gaming experiences.
