by Russell Irons ‘19

“Assassin’s Creed Odyssey,”released earlier this month, is a refreshing take on the once stagnant formula released annually by Ubisoft. The video game generated a fair amount of hype simply based on its setting during the Peloponnesian War, a conflict between Sparta and Athens from 431-404 BC.

“Odyssey” delivers a stunning open game world larger than that of “GTA: V” with all kinds of terrain, from the snow-capped peaks of Mount Olympus to the underwater ruins of temples. You can traverse the expansive area by foot, horse, or trireme, an ancient Greek ship powered by oarsmen, and with it you can journey across the Adriatic Sea and engage in naval combat.

The gameplay expands upon the engaging combat system introduced with “Assassin’s Creed Origins.” Prior to the new gameplay system, “Assassin’s Creed” games were notorious for a boring combat system in which the player could spam blocking moves and remain immortal. “Odyssey” offers a challenge, and the player must remain focused in order to survive. Doing something too soon or too late can result in aquick end to their journey.

There are three skill trees present in the game: hunter, warrior, and assassin. Hunter skills deal with bows and ranged attacks, warrior skills are for close combat (such as the Sparta Kick from “300”), and assassin skills are for remaining in the shadows and poisoning enemies. The diversity of options ensures the gameplay will remain refreshing, and unlike other games, “Odyssey” does not pigeonhole the player in to choosing one and sticking with it. Players are able to choose their approach based on the situation of mission they are doing. The constant warring between Athens and Sparta in each province enables the player to tip the scales in favor of whichever side suits the situation by subverting either faction, and helping the opposition take over in a conquest battle. The equipment system gives the player various weapons to choose from, each of which perform differently in combat. The story of “Odyssey” revolves around Alexios or Kassandra (based on which gender you picked). The character was born to a Spartan warrior, and after aseries of unfortunate events, ended up on the island of Kephallonia as a child.

The story explores the character getting wrapped up in the Peloponnesian War while uncovering a large plot against his/her family, and has various outcomes depending upon actions the player takes. A lot of freedom is given regarding decisions large and small, and your choices have an evident impact on the game world. The plot is very engaging, and it carries with it a sense of gravitas.

“Assassin’s Creed Odyssey” is a welcome improvement from its predecessors and a worthwhile $59.99 purchase for fans of openworld games. Microtransactions are not forced down your throat, and the wealth of content will keep you entertained for dozens of hours.

Grade: A