Assassin's Creed Nexus VR - Review
Published on February 20, 2023
What an unexpected arrival! It's like stumbling upon a hidden treasure after years of speculation and anticipation. Picture this: It's the turn of the millennium, and Ubisoft, initially focused on crafting a sequel to Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, veers off course to explore the realm of assassins, particularly the enigmatic Hashashin group led by Hasan El Sabah, renowned for their creed: Nothing is True, Everything is Permitted.
These assassins, reminiscent of the original John Wicks but centuries ahead of their time, laid the groundwork for a sprawling franchise that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Thus, Assassin’s Creed was born, marking the inception of an enduring saga that still captivates audiences to this day.
With its groundbreaking premise of delving into the ancestral memories of historical assassins through the Animus Device, the franchise seemed tailor-made for VR long before the technology became mainstream. In many ways, the birth of Assassin’s Creed: Nexus in 2007 feels predestined, a culmination of years of anticipation.
And now, after what feels like an eternity of waiting, Assassin’s Creed: Nexus has finally graced Meta Quest headsets with its presence. We had hoped to deliver our review in tandem with the game's release, but fate had other plans. Nevertheless, with our batteries recharged and our blades sharpened, we're ready to embark on this epic journey.
In Assassin’s Creed Nexus, you assume the role of a cunning hacker enlisted by a rogue Abstergo agent on a quest to unearth the blueprints of a mysterious supercomputer of possibly extraterrestrial origin. Your mission? Traverse the memories of legendary assassins throughout history, scouring for artifacts that hold the elusive blueprints.
Rather than introducing new protagonists, Ubisoft grants VR enthusiasts the chance to embody some of the franchise's most iconic characters, including Ezio Auditore in Renaissance Italy, Kassandra in Ancient Greece, and Connor Kenway in Colonial America. It's a thrilling lineup, though a part of me yearns for the inclusion of Altaïr from the series' inaugural installment.
Spanning 16 exhilarating missions, Assassin’s Creed Nexus seamlessly transports players across various time periods and locales, ensuring an immersive and captivating experience. From bustling cities to tranquil landscapes, there's no shortage of breathtaking vistas to explore.
Assassin’s Creed Nexus VR represents a return to the series' roots, shedding the excesses of recent console releases in favor of refined gameplay focused on core elements like pick-pocketing and social stealth. The result? A more streamlined and authentic Assassin's Creed experience that harkens back to its origins.
The game strikes a delicate balance between accessibility and immersion, offering intuitive mechanics that empower players without compromising on challenge. However, while the auto-aim feature ensures precision in combat, it may occasionally detract from the thrill of the hunt.
Despite its minor shortcomings, Assassin’s Creed Nexus captivates with its fluid gameplay, stunning visuals, and engaging narrative. It offers a tantalizing glimpse into a world teeming with history and intrigue, inviting players to partake in an unforgettable adventure.
In summary, Assassin’s Creed Nexus is a testament to the franchise's enduring legacy and a shining example of VR gaming done right. With its gripping storyline, immersive gameplay, and memorable moments, it stands as a worthy addition to the Assassin's Creed universe, leaving players eagerly awaiting their next virtual escapade.
