In the vast landscape of video games, few titles have left as significant a mark on the industry as Assassin’s Creed Syndicate. Released on October 23, 2015, for PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, this installment not only helped steer the franchise back on course after the rocky launch of Assassin’s Creed Unity but also introduced a groundbreaking feature that has since become a staple in the action-adventure genre: dual protagonists.
The introduction of dual protagonists in Assassin’s Creed Syndicate was a pivotal moment for the series and the gaming industry at large. Players were given the opportunity to control both Jacob and Evie Frye, twin Assassins with unique abilities and perspectives. This innovation set a precedent that has been embraced by other franchises, enriching narratives and gameplay mechanics across the board.
The Evolution of Dual Protagonists in Gaming
While the concept of multiple playable characters is not new, its implementation has varied widely across genres. In the shooter genre, for instance, Halo evolved from having Player Two as a mere clone of Master Chief to introducing distinct characters like the Arbiter. Similarly, Grand Theft Auto V allowed players to switch between three protagonists, each with their own storylines and missions.
In Assassin’s Creed Syndicate, the dual protagonist feature was not merely a gimmick but a well-integrated element of the game’s narrative and mechanics. Evie Frye, the series’ third female lead, stood out as a significant character, especially given the controversy surrounding the lack of playable female characters in Unity. Despite initial marketing focusing more on her brother Jacob, Evie’s character received widespread acclaim, culminating in a DICE award nomination in 2016.
Impact on Diversity and Representation
The success of Evie Frye and the dual protagonist system in Syndicate marked a turning point for Ubisoft, prompting the company to embrace greater diversity in its games. This shift is evident in titles like Far Cry 5 and Immortals: Fenyx Rising, where players can customize their character’s gender and ethnicity.
In subsequent Assassin’s Creed games, this commitment to diversity continued. Odyssey allowed players to choose between Alexios and Kassandra, with the latter considered the canonical lead. Valhalla introduced Eivor, whose gender could be switched at will, further emphasizing the franchise’s dedication to inclusive storytelling.
“The introduction of dual protagonists in Assassin’s Creed Syndicate was a pivotal moment for the series and the gaming industry at large.”
Narrative Depth and Player Engagement
The dual protagonist approach offers more than just diversity; it enriches the narrative depth and player engagement. Games like The Last of Us Part II and Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 have demonstrated how multiple protagonists can enhance storytelling by offering different perspectives and emotional arcs.
In The Last of Us Part II, the gradual revelation of Abby’s importance adds layers to the narrative, while Spider-Man 2 builds on Miles Morales’ character development from previous installments. These examples illustrate how dual protagonists can be used to create more immersive and emotionally resonant experiences for players.
The Future of Dual Protagonists in Gaming
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, the dual protagonist model shows no signs of fading. Upcoming titles like Assassin’s Creed Shadows promise to explore new territories with characters like Naoe and Yasuke, potentially drawing inspiration from historical figures and diverse settings.
This trend reflects a broader shift in the industry towards more inclusive and dynamic storytelling. By allowing players to experience the game world through multiple lenses, developers can craft richer, more engaging narratives that resonate with a wider audience.
In conclusion, Assassin’s Creed Syndicate not only revitalized its franchise but also set a new standard for character-driven storytelling in video games. As the industry continues to embrace dual protagonists, players can look forward to even more innovative and inclusive gaming experiences in the years to come.
