Assassin’s Creed II

Q: Is the combat too easy?

The combat is more fluid than the first game, but it relies on your willingness to experiment. While you can counter-kill most enemies, using the disarm mechanic or gadgets makes the game significantly more fun and “Resilient” in its tactical depth.

Q: What is the significance of the "Feathers"?

The feathers are a tribute to Ezio’s younger brother. While they are a traditional “collectible,” finding them all unlocks a special cape and a heartfelt cinematic with Ezio’s mother. It’s a quiet, emotional side-quest for the Narrative Seeker.

Q: How does the "Notoriety" system work?

Performing “illegal” actions in public increases your notoriety. If it gets too high, guards will recognize you instantly. You can lower it by tearing down posters, bribing heralds, or assassinating corrupt officials. This adds a constant “Social Stealth” layer to your movement through the city.

Q: Do I need to know the modern-day story?

The game starts with a quick recap of Desmond’s situation. While the focus is 90% on the Renaissance, the “Animus” segments provide the framework for why you are reliving these memories. It’s a sci-fi mystery that adds a unique flavor to the historical setting.

Q: Is it better to play the original or the "Ezio Collection"?

The Ezio Collection (PS4/Xbox One/Switch) is highly recommended. It includes all DLCs, features improved textures and lighting, and runs at a more stable frame rate, providing the highest quality experience for a modern professional setup.

Overall Rating: 4.42 • 2921 reviews

The Narrative Seeker The Resilient Player

Step into the boots of gaming’s most iconic hero in Assassin’s Creed II, the sweeping epic that transformed a franchise into a cultural phenomenon! Spanning decades of the Italian Renaissance, you follow Ezio Auditore da Firenze from a carefree youth to a master of the shadows. This is the destination for those who want a story that feels like a multi-season prestige drama. Whether you are soaring over the canals of Venice in a Da Vinci flying machine or uncovering a global conspiracy in the heart of the Vatican, every moment is a masterclass in world-building and emotional payoff.

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Details

Some of the particulars and information about Assassin’s Creed II.

Developer: Ubisoft Montreal

Release Date: November 17, 2009

How Long to Beat: 27 hrs

Great for:

The Narrative Seeker The Resilient Player

Ratings

Some of the ratings and scores for Assassin’s Creed II.

89 Metacritic

9.2 IGN

-- Our Score

Genres

Action

Adventure

Role-Playing Game

Systems

Here's where you can find Assassin’s Creed II and play.

ESRB: Mature

Blood

Intense Violence

Strong Language

Overview

Why Play?

How Much Time?

Overview

This transformative sequel expanded every facet of the original’s vision, delivering a vibrant adventure that rewards narrative curiosity and the patience of a player dedicated to building a legacy.

The Gold Standard For The Narrative Seeker

Assassin’s Creed II is widely considered the peak of the series’ storytelling. For the Narrative Seeker, the draw is the sheer humanity of Ezio’s journey. Unlike the stoic Altaïr, Ezio is charismatic, flawed, and deeply motivated by the love for his family. You witness his life over 20 years, meeting historical giants like Lorenzo de’ Medici and Caterina Sforza. The narrative doesn’t just provide targets; it builds a world of political intrigue and ancient mystery that makes you feel like an active participant in one of history’s most fascinating eras.

Economic Mastery For The Resilient Player

This entry introduced the “Villa Monteriggioni” system, adding a layer of management that perfectly suits the Resilient Player. Your family’s ancestral home is initially a ruin, but through persistent investment, you can rebuild it into a thriving stronghold. Every florin spent on renovations increases your passive income, which in turn allows you to buy better armor, weapons, and pouches. The satisfaction comes from the long-term loop of adventuring in the city and returning to see your home, and your power, visibly grow, turning the game into a rewarding “Legacy Simulator.”

A Masterpiece Of Renaissance Art Direction

The game takes you through a breathtaking tour of Italy, from the rolling hills of Tuscany to the misty canals of Venice and the grand architecture of Florence. For those seeking a high-quality escape, the visual and auditory fidelity is transcendent. The haunting, melodic score by Jesper Kyd remains one of the greatest in gaming history, perfectly capturing the mystery and romance of the era. The inclusion of the “Assassin Tombs”—highly detailed platforming puzzles hidden in cathedrals and landmarks—offers a visceral way to engage with the world’s history and architecture.

Trailer

A Quick Look at Assassin’s Creed II

Curious what Assassin’s Creed II is all about? The trailer gives you a great first look at the world, the vibe, and the kind of story you're stepping into.

Videos

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Screenshots

Screenshots of Assassin’s Creed II

Want to see what Assassin’s Creed II actually looks like in-game? These screenshots will hopefully give you a feel for what the world of Assassin’s Creed II is like.

Extras

Downloadable Content for Assassin’s Creed II

DLC just means more of a good thing. Here are some for Assassin’s Creed II

Assassin's Creed II: Bonfire of the Vanities

Reclaim The Cities Of The North

These two story expansions are integrated into the “Ezio Collection” on modern consoles. They fill in the “missing” sequences near the end of the game. Battle of Forlì offers a high-action defense of a fortress alongside Caterina Sforza, while Bonfire of the Vanities takes you back to Florence to dismantle a religious extremist’s grip on the city. For the Narrative Seeker, these chapters are vital for understanding Ezio’s transition from an Assassin to a leader of people.

Advanced Stealth Challenges and Flying Machine Returns

The DLCs introduce some of the most complex stealth sections in the game, particularly in Florence, where you must navigate heavily guarded plazas without being detected. They also include a dedicated mission for the Da Vinci Flying Machine, allowing you to use the mechanic more freely than in the main story. These expansions provide a high-value “endgame” that tests every skill you have learned throughout Ezio’s long odyssey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have Questions About Assassin’s Creed II?

Is the combat too easy?

What is the significance of the "Feathers"?

How does the "Notoriety" system work?

Do I need to know the modern-day story?

Is it better to play the original or the "Ezio Collection"?

Franchise

Explore More From Assassin's Creed

There's more to Assassin's Creed than Assassin’s Creed II. Check out some of the other games in the franchise.

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