The Assassin’s Creed series has been a staple of the gaming world for over a decade, with each new installment offering a unique blend of historical fiction, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals. Two of the most popular titles in the series are Assassin’s Creed Syndicate and Assassin’s Creed Unity, both of which have received critical acclaim and commercial success. However, the question remains: which one is better? In this article, we will delve into the world of Assassin’s Creed and compare these two titles, exploring their gameplay, storylines, and overall gaming experiences.
Introduction to Assassin’s Creed Syndicate and Unity
Assassin’s Creed Syndicate and Unity are both action-adventure games developed by Ubisoft, with Syndicate being released in 2015 and Unity in 2014. Both games are set in different historical periods, with Syndicate taking place in Victorian-era London and Unity in Revolutionary France. The games follow the traditional Assassin’s Creed formula, with players taking on the roles of assassins fighting against the Templar Order.
Gameplay Comparison
One of the most significant differences between Syndicate and Unity is their gameplay mechanics. Syndicate introduces a new combat system, which allows for more fluid and dynamic fights. The game also features a variety of new abilities, such as the use of a grappling hook to traverse the city and a gang system that allows players to recruit and command a team of allies. Unity, on the other hand, focuses more on stealth and strategy, with players needing to use their wits and cunning to outmaneuver their enemies.
Combat Mechanics
The combat mechanics in Syndicate are more fast-paced and action-oriented, with players able to switch between two playable characters, Jacob and Evie Frye. The game’s combat system is more responsive and intuitive, making it easier for players to take down their enemies. Unity, while still offering a satisfying combat experience, is more methodical and requires players to use their environment and abilities to gain the upper hand.
Exploration and Navigation
Both games offer vast open worlds to explore, with Syndicate’s London being a particular highlight. The game’s use of a grappling hook and zipline system makes navigating the city a breeze, and the addition of a horse-drawn carriage allows for faster travel. Unity’s Paris, while beautifully rendered, can feel more restrictive, with players needing to use the game’s parkour system to climb buildings and traverse the city.
Storyline and Characters
The storylines of Syndicate and Unity are both engaging and well-written, with a strong focus on the Assassin-Templar conflict. Syndicate follows the story of Jacob and Evie Frye, two twins who are fighting to take down the Templar-controlled gangs in London. The game’s storyline is more personal and character-driven, with a strong focus on the relationship between the two protagonists. Unity, on the other hand, follows the story of Arno Victor Dorian, a young assassin fighting to avenge his father’s death and uncover the truth behind the Templar conspiracy.
Character Development
The characters in Syndicate are more fleshed out and relatable, with Jacob and Evie having distinct personalities and motivations. The game’s supporting cast, including the enigmatic Alexander Graham Bell and the ruthless Templar leader, Crawford Starrick, add depth and complexity to the story. Unity’s characters, while well-acted and well-written, can feel more one-dimensional, with Arno being a more traditional protagonist.
Historical Context
Both games are set in historical periods, with Syndicate taking place in the midst of the Industrial Revolution and Unity during the French Revolution. Syndicate’s use of historical figures and events, such as the construction of the London Underground and the rise of the British Empire, adds a layer of authenticity to the game. Unity’s historical context is also well-researched, with the game’s depiction of the French Revolution and its key figures, such as Napoleon Bonaparte, being accurate and engaging.
Graphics and Sound Design
The graphics and sound design in both games are stunning, with Syndicate’s London being a particular highlight. The game’s use of detailed textures, realistic lighting, and impressive character models makes the game a visual feast. Unity’s Paris is also beautifully rendered, with the game’s use of advanced lighting and shading techniques creating a immersive and realistic environment.
Soundtrack and Voice Acting
The soundtracks in both games are composed by renowned musicians, with Syndicate’s score being composed by Austin Wintory and Unity’s by Ryan Amon. The soundtracks are both haunting and beautiful, with a strong focus on orchestral pieces and choral arrangements. The voice acting in both games is also top-notch, with the cast of Syndicate, including Paul Amos and Victoria Atkin, delivering standout performances.
Technical Performance
The technical performance of both games is solid, with Syndicate running smoothly on most hardware configurations. The game’s use of advanced graphics techniques, such as dynamic lighting and global illumination, creates a visually stunning experience. Unity, while still performing well, can suffer from occasional framerate drops and texture pop-in.
In conclusion, both Assassin’s Creed Syndicate and Unity are excellent games that offer unique and engaging experiences. While Unity’s focus on stealth and strategy may appeal to some players, Syndicate’s more fast-paced and action-oriented gameplay, combined with its engaging storyline and well-developed characters, make it the better game. Ultimately, the choice between these two titles will depend on personal preference, but for fans of the Assassin’s Creed series, Syndicate is an absolute must-play.
| Game | Release Year | Setting | Gameplay Mechanics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assassin’s Creed Syndicate | 2015 | Victorian-era London | Fast-paced combat, grappling hook, gang system |
| Assassin’s Creed Unity | 2014 | Revolutionary France | Stealth-oriented gameplay, parkour system, cooperative multiplayer |
- Assassin’s Creed Syndicate offers a more personal and character-driven storyline, with a strong focus on the relationship between the two protagonists.
- Assassin’s Creed Unity features a more methodical and strategic gameplay experience, with a focus on stealth and cooperation.
By examining the gameplay mechanics, storylines, and overall gaming experiences of Assassin’s Creed Syndicate and Unity, it is clear that both games have their strengths and weaknesses. However, Syndicate’s engaging storyline, well-developed characters, and fast-paced gameplay make it the better game. Whether you are a fan of the Assassin’s Creed series or just looking for a new gaming experience, Syndicate is an absolute must-play.
What are the main differences between Assassin’s Creed Syndicate and Unity in terms of gameplay?
Assassin’s Creed Syndicate and Unity have distinct differences in gameplay. Syndicate introduces a new combat system, allowing players to switch between two protagonists, Jacob and Evie Frye, each with unique abilities and fighting styles. The game also features a more open-world design, with a greater emphasis on exploration and discovery. In contrast, Unity focuses on a more linear narrative, with a greater emphasis on stealth and strategy.
Another significant difference is the parkour system. While both games feature the series’ signature parkour mechanics, Syndicate introduces a new grappling hook that allows for faster traversal and more fluid movement. Unity, on the other hand, focuses on a more realistic parkour system, with a greater emphasis on precision and timing. Overall, Syndicate offers a more action-oriented experience, while Unity is more focused on stealth and strategy.
How do the settings of Assassin’s Creed Syndicate and Unity compare?
Assassin’s Creed Syndicate is set in Victorian-era London, while Unity is set in Revolutionary-era Paris. Both games offer richly detailed and immersive environments, but they differ significantly in terms of atmosphere and tone. Syndicate’s London is a dark and gritty city, with a focus on the struggles of the working class and the rise of industrialization. Unity’s Paris, on the other hand, is a city in turmoil, with a focus on the violence and upheaval of the French Revolution.
Both games feature detailed and accurate recreations of their respective cities, with a focus on historical accuracy and authenticity. However, Syndicate’s London is more expansive, with a greater emphasis on exploration and discovery. Unity’s Paris, on the other hand, is more focused on the narrative, with a greater emphasis on key locations and set pieces. Overall, both games offer unique and immersive settings, but they differ significantly in terms of atmosphere and tone.
What are the main differences between the protagonists of Assassin’s Creed Syndicate and Unity?
The protagonists of Assassin’s Creed Syndicate and Unity are distinct and complex characters. Syndicate’s protagonists, Jacob and Evie Frye, are twins who are both Assassins, but they have different personalities and abilities. Jacob is a hot-headed and impulsive fighter, while Evie is a more stealthy and strategic Assassin. Unity’s protagonist, Arno Victor Dorian, is a more traditional Assassin, with a focus on stealth and strategy.
One of the main differences between the protagonists is their backstory and motivation. Jacob and Evie are driven by a desire to protect their family and community, while Arno is driven by a desire for revenge and justice. Additionally, the protagonists of Syndicate are more focused on the Assassin-Templar conflict, while Arno is more focused on his personal vendetta. Overall, the protagonists of both games are complex and nuanced, but they differ significantly in terms of personality and motivation.
How do the graphics and sound design of Assassin’s Creed Syndicate and Unity compare?
Both Assassin’s Creed Syndicate and Unity feature impressive graphics and sound design, but they differ significantly in terms of style and tone. Syndicate’s graphics are more vibrant and colorful, with a focus on the industrial and Victorian-era aesthetic of London. Unity’s graphics, on the other hand, are more muted and realistic, with a focus on the gritty and violent atmosphere of Revolutionary-era Paris.
The sound design of both games is also distinct. Syndicate features a more energetic and pulsating soundtrack, with a focus on the industrial and technological advancements of the Victorian era. Unity’s soundtrack, on the other hand, is more somber and reflective, with a focus on the violence and upheaval of the French Revolution. Additionally, the sound effects and voice acting in both games are highly detailed and realistic, with a focus on immersion and authenticity.
What are the main differences between the multiplayer modes of Assassin’s Creed Syndicate and Unity?
Assassin’s Creed Syndicate and Unity have distinct multiplayer modes. Syndicate features a more cooperative multiplayer mode, with a focus on team-based gameplay and objectives. Players can team up with friends to complete missions and take down enemies, with a focus on strategy and communication. Unity, on the other hand, features a more competitive multiplayer mode, with a focus on player-versus-player combat and competition.
Another significant difference is the type of multiplayer modes available. Syndicate features a variety of cooperative modes, including a “Gang War” mode where players can compete against each other in a series of challenges. Unity, on the other hand, features a variety of competitive modes, including a “Dominion” mode where players can compete against each other in a series of matches. Overall, both games offer unique and engaging multiplayer experiences, but they differ significantly in terms of style and tone.
How do the storylines of Assassin’s Creed Syndicate and Unity compare?
The storylines of Assassin’s Creed Syndicate and Unity are distinct and complex, but they share some similarities. Both games are set in the Assassin’s Creed universe, with a focus on the conflict between the Assassins and the Templars. However, the storylines of both games differ significantly in terms of tone and focus. Syndicate’s storyline is more focused on the personal struggles of the protagonists, Jacob and Evie Frye, as they navigate the complexities of the Assassin-Templar conflict.
Unity’s storyline, on the other hand, is more focused on the larger narrative of the Assassin’s Creed universe, with a focus on the French Revolution and the rise of the Templars. The game’s protagonist, Arno Victor Dorian, is a more traditional Assassin, with a focus on stealth and strategy. Overall, both games offer engaging and complex storylines, but they differ significantly in terms of tone and focus.
Which game is more recommended for new players to the Assassin’s Creed series?
For new players to the Assassin’s Creed series, Assassin’s Creed Syndicate is more recommended. The game offers a more accessible and intuitive gameplay experience, with a focus on exploration and discovery. The game’s storyline is also more focused on the personal struggles of the protagonists, making it easier for new players to become invested in the narrative.
Additionally, Syndicate’s gameplay mechanics are more streamlined and refined, making it easier for new players to pick up and play. The game also features a more comprehensive tutorial and guidance system, helping new players to learn the game’s mechanics and controls. Overall, Syndicate is a more accessible and engaging game for new players, making it a great starting point for the Assassin’s Creed series.