When Assassin's Creed was released in 2007 for the Xbox 360, players were transported back in time to the Holy Land in 1191. A bartender named Desmond Miles is abducted and forced to relive the memories of his ancestor, an assassin named Altaïr. For some reason, these memories are crucial to a mysterious organization.
The game follows Altaïr as he tries to complete nine assassination targets set by his leader Al Mualim. However, the player also controls Desmond between sessions in the "Animus", allowing him to move through time and experience different eras of history.
One of the game's most innovative features is its freedom of choice and movement. Players can use architectural details like window ledges and carvings to navigate the environment, making for intense chase scenes when being pursued by guards.
The gameplay involves using various methods to gather information about targets, such as eavesdropping, interrogation, and pickpocketing. Once this information is obtained, players can choose their approach, whether it's a full frontal assault or a stealthy approach from the rooftops.