Setting
Assassin's Creed Origins transports players to ancient Egypt during the waning years of the Ptolemaic period in 49 BCE. The game's open-world environment is a stunningly accurate recreation of the geography, cities, and historical landmarks from this era. Great care was taken by the developers to capture the authentic look and feel of Ptolemaic Egypt through intense research and attention to detail.
The vast Nile Delta region serves as the main setting, including the major cities of Alexandria, Memphis, and Giza. Players can seamlessly travel between the crowded metropolises teeming with civilians, merchants, and guards and the rural farmlands along the life-giving Nile River. The arid deserts stretching as far as the eye can see offer challenges with sandstorms, mirages, and nomadic bandits. Lush oases provide temporary respite with waterfalls and vegetation. No matter where you go, the ubiquitous presence of the colossal pyramids loom on the horizon.
The authentically rendered details are simply breathtaking - from the unmistakable ivory-white limestone used to construct the Pyramids of Giza to the iconic double-crowned pylon gateways of ancient Egyptian temples. The famed Lighthouse of Alexandria casts its powerful beam out over the Mediterranean coast. Every architectural element exhibits a profound understanding of ancient Egyptian art, motifs, and construction methods. The hustle and bustle of city streets, complete with roaming animals, busy marketplace stalls, and worshipers at the temples, fully immerses players in the daily life and culture.
Pivotal moments in the game's story see players interact with and even influence legendary historical figures like Cleopatra, Julius Caesar, and Ptolemy XIII as they navigate the complex web of political machinations, power grabs, and outright conflicts that roiled Egypt under Roman occupation. However, the narrative goes beyond just depicting famous figures and events - it strives to capture the nuances of what life was like for ordinary Egyptians caught in the middle.
For those craving even more background on Egyptian history and mythology, Origins offers numerous secret tombs and mythological locations to discover, each filled with mysterious puzzles and insight into ancient beliefs. Exploring these hidden chambers provides a welcome diversion from the critical path while deepening one's appreciation for the richness of Egyptian culture and legends. Apep's locked realm and the Sphinx's everlasting vigil are just a couple of the surprises awaiting curious adventurers.
From densely populated cities to desolate deserts, sleepy farmlands to mythic realms - Assassin's Creed Origins crafts a living world awash in the wonders and complexities of Ptolemaic Egyptian civilization. The exquisite level of historical authenticity in this virtual ancient Egypt is simply unparalleled in gaming, providing the opportunity to truly immerse oneself in this long-gone era and all its vibrancy.
