10 Reasons You Should Play Assassin’s Creed Odyssey in 2024

Assassin’s Creed is one of Ubisoft’s biggest franchises. Despite the controversies surrounding Ubisoft, it’s undeniable that the series still has a loyal fanbase.

Odyssey represents a major evolution from its predecessor, Assassin’s Creed Origins, which revamped the series with RPG elements and a massive open world. Odyssey takes it even further, refining these elements to perfection.

So, let’s not waste time—here are 10 reasons why you should play Assassin’s Creed Odyssey in 2024:

1. Fully Explore Ancient Greece by Land and Sea

Odyssey is one of the most stunning entries in the franchise, hands down. Its enormous map invites you to explore diverse landscapes, from ancient cities with iconic Greek architecture to dense forests, mountains, and rolling hills. You’ll come across landmarks and monuments you may have read about in history books—or ones you didn’t even know existed.

Out at sea, you can dive to uncover treasures beneath the waves or engage in naval battles where you plunder enemy ships. It’s easily one of the most immersive exploration experiences I’ve ever had in a game.

2. Shape Your Own Story

One of Odyssey’s standout features is its choice-driven storytelling. Playing as Alexios or Kassandra, you’ll face decisions that directly affect the game’s narrative, sometimes even altering its ending. Your choices carry weight, making the story feel personal and giving you full control over your journey.

3. Old Style or New Style? Your Choice.

Ubisoft has pushed the boundaries of Assassin’s Creed by introducing deep RPG elements, and Odyssey polishes them to a shine. You can customize your gameplay by upgrading skills, picking gear that matches your build (from helmets to boots), and choosing between weapons like swords, spears, axes, or bows.

Want to play stealthily, assassinating enemies from the shadows? Or do you prefer the brute force of a Spartan warrior taking on multiple enemies head-on? Maybe you’re a sharpshooter channeling Artemis, sniping foes from afar. Whatever your playstyle, You can do it in Odyssey.

4. Life as a Mercenary: Face Your Destiny

A compelling main character can make or break a game, and Ubisoft nailed it with Alexios and Kassandra. You start your journey as a mercenary on the small but picturesque island of Kefalonia.

Despite its serene beauty, you carry a tragic past that shapes your path forward. From taking on dangerous missions to making gut-wrenching decisions, Odyssey keeps you emotionally invested.

5. Take to the Seas and Sing Those Shanties

Yes, you’re a mercenary, but you’re also a ship captain. Sailing the Aegean Sea is a major part of the game, and while it might not hit the same highs as Black Flag, Odyssey offers plenty to love.

You can recruit NPCs as lieutenants for your ship, upgrade it for better battles, and dominate the seas. Whether you’re engaging in naval combat or simply enjoying the Greek sailors’ shanties, this aspect of the game is deeply satisfying.

6. It’s Your Odyssey

Unlike many other entries in the series, Odyssey gives you complete freedom to approach its story, exploration, and side missions however you like. While roaming the massive world with your loyal horse Phobos, you’ll constantly run into surprises: bandits guarding treasure, heavily fortified military camps, caves with wild animals, and more.

Accompanying you is your eagle, Ikaros, which acts as an “Eagle’s Eye” of sorts to scout enemy positions and loot locations. This dynamic duo makes exploration both engaging and rewarding.

7. Battle Mythical and Fantasy Creatures

Assassin’s Creed wouldn’t be the same without a touch of myth and fantasy. Odyssey surprises you with encounters you might not expect, such as battling cultists, facing off against the Minotaur, or taking on Medusa, who can turn you to stone.

Each fight is uniquely challenging, requiring the right strategy, skill, and equipment to succeed. These mythical beasts are not just filler—they’re epic, memorable encounters that push your abilities to the limit.

8. Side Missions That Actually Matter

In most open-world games, side missions often feel like filler. That’s not the case here. In Odyssey, almost every side mission is thoughtfully designed.

Some are lighthearted and funny, like helping someone buy medicine at the market, while others are darker and more serious, like assisting Socrates in a philosophical debate. Because the game uses a level-based progression system, completing side missions also feels rewarding as they help you stay ahead of tougher challenges.

9. Stunning Visuals and a Lively World

I’m the kind of gamer who can sit and admire a game’s scenery for hours, and Odyssey excels in this department. From watching a serene sunset or enjoying the calm of the sea at night, the game offers countless breathtaking moments.

What’s more, the world feels alive. NPCs interact with each other in bustling markets, farmers tend to their fields, and soldiers have routines like eating and sleeping. This attention to detail adds so much depth to the game.

10. Can’t-Miss Expansions

If 50+ hours of exploration isn’t enough for you, Odyssey offers two incredible DLC expansions:

Legacy of the First Blade

The Fate of Atlantis

Both expansions add hours of gameplay and expand the lore of the Assassin’s Creed universe in meaningful ways.

In Legacy of the First Blade you will discover the origins of the Hidden Blade, the iconic weapon of the Assassins, as you face off against the Order of the Ancients. While The Fate of Atlantis let you explore the mythical realms of Elysium, the Underworld, and the legendary Atlantis.

Final Thoughts

Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is more than just another entry in the franchise; it’s a remarkable title that seamlessly combines exploration, combat, and storytelling. As you embark on your journey through Ancient Greece, you’ll encounter a unique experience that sets Odyssey apart from its predecessors. This game is absolutely worth your time, no matter when you dive in.