Assassin's Creed Origins stands out as an action role-playing game set in ancient Egypt, where you take on the role of Bayek, a protector navigating a world of political intrigue and mythological elements. This title shifts the series toward deeper RPG mechanics, offering an expansive open world filled with exploration, combat, and narrative depth. Released in 2017, it remains accessible on Xbox One and Xbox Series consoles, blending historical fiction with engaging mechanics that appeal to those interested in stealth, action, and character progression.
Gameplay
The core of Assassin's Creed Origins revolves around a hitbox-based combat system that emphasizes precision and strategy. You wield weapons categorized as common, rare, or legendary, each rated by damage, speed, and range. Light attacks deliver quick strikes, while heavy attacks pack more power but require careful timing. A skill tree divides into three branches: Hunter for enhancing ranged capabilities with bows, Warrior for strengthening melee fights, and Seer for improving stealth and assassination techniques.
Exploration plays a key role, with Bayek using his eagle companion Senu to scout areas, mark enemies, and reveal points of interest, replacing traditional detection methods. Progression comes from earning experience through quests, battles, and discoveries, allowing level ups that unlock new abilities. Stealth mechanics encourage silent takedowns and parkour across detailed environments, from bustling cities to vast deserts.
Game Modes
Assassin's Creed Origins focuses on a single-player campaign that unfolds Bayek's story across ancient Egypt. The main narrative drives the experience, with side quests providing additional challenges and lore. Expansions extend this further, introducing new regions and threats.
The Hidden Ones expansion continues the tale years later, leading Bayek in forming a brotherhood against oppressors in a fresh territory. The Curse of the Pharaohs shifts to a supernatural setting, pitting you against mythical beasts, undead pharaohs, and mummies in realms inspired by Egyptian lore.
Expansions and Additional Content
The Season Pass enhances the base game with major additions like The Hidden Ones and The Curse of the Pharaohs, boosting the level cap and offering hours of new adventures. It also unlocks customization options, such as the Roman Centurion Pack with gear inspired by Roman soldiers, including two weapons, a shield, and a mount.
Another pack, the Horus Pack, draws from the Egyptian god of the sky, providing an outfit, a mount, two bows, and a shield. A day-one exclusive weapon and a base pack of 500 Helix Credits round out the offerings, supporting further upgrades and personalization.
Is It Worth Playing?
Assassin's Creed Origins holds strong appeal for those who enjoy open-world action RPGs with a mix of combat, stealth, and exploration. Player reception highlights its strengths, with ratings like 9 out of 10 from major outlets praising the overhauled mechanics and immersive setting. The game continues to receive positive feedback for its narrative rooted in revenge and historical drama, even years after launch.
It suits solo players seeking a lengthy campaign, around 30 hours for the main story, plus extras from expansions. With ongoing availability on current consoles and inclusion in subscription services, it remains a solid choice for series fans or newcomers drawn to ancient Egypt themes, though those preferring multiplayer might look elsewhere.
