Ubisoft's Reasoning: Why Assassin's Creed Mirage Doesn't Let You Kill Animals

James

3 min read

Post on May 21, 2025

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Ubisoft's Reasoning: Why Assassin's Creed Mirage Doesn't Let You Kill Animals

Assassin's Creed Mirage, a welcome return to the series' roots, has sparked discussion amongst fans, particularly regarding its decision to remove the ability to kill animals. This departure from recent titles has left many wondering: why? While some might initially see this as a limitation, Ubisoft's reasoning reveals a thoughtful approach to game design and a desire to recapture the essence of what made the original Assassin's Creed games so captivating.

This article delves into the reasons behind this change, exploring the narrative implications, gameplay mechanics, and the overall vision for Mirage.

A Return to Stealth and Assassination Focus:

Mirage aims for a more streamlined, focused experience, harkening back to the stealth-action gameplay of the earlier games in the franchise. The removal of animal killing directly contributes to this goal. Previous titles, with their expansive gameplay loops, often allowed for a wide array of actions, sometimes diluting the core assassination focus. By removing the option to harm animals, Mirage forces players to engage more directly with the core mechanics: stealth, parkour, and precise assassinations. This heightened focus sharpens the gameplay and enhances the overall player experience.

Narrative Coherence and Basim's Character Arc:

Mirage tells the story of Basim Ibn Ishaq, a character previously seen in Assassin's Creed Valhalla. His journey in Mirage focuses on his transformation into a Master Assassin. Allowing players to freely kill animals might have clashed with the narrative arc, potentially undermining Basim's development and the game's overall thematic consistency. The narrative emphasis on stealth and precision aligns directly with the choice to omit animal killing.

Gameplay Design and Environmental Storytelling:

The decision also ties into the overall design philosophy of Mirage's world. The game's environments are designed to be explored and interacted with in specific ways. The absence of animal killing enhances the immersion, preventing actions that could feel out of place within the established narrative and gameplay loop. Instead of focusing on extraneous actions, the game encourages players to engage with the richly detailed environment through stealth and exploration, adding to the overall immersive experience.

Modern Game Design Trends and Ethical Considerations:

While not explicitly stated by Ubisoft, the rising awareness of ethical considerations within game design might have influenced this decision. The increasing sensitivity towards animal welfare in media could have played a role in shaping the design choices for Mirage. This aligns with broader trends in game development, where developers are increasingly mindful of the potential impact of their games on players and society.

The Bigger Picture: A More Focused Experience:

Ultimately, the removal of animal killing in Assassin's Creed Mirage isn't a limitation, but rather a design choice that enhances the game's overall experience. It contributes to a more focused, streamlined gameplay loop that better reflects the spirit of the original Assassin's Creed games, while simultaneously aligning with the narrative arc of Basim Ibn Ishaq and broader industry trends. By prioritizing stealth, precision, and narrative coherence, Ubisoft has crafted an experience that promises a return to the core tenets of the franchise. This careful consideration of gameplay mechanics underscores Ubisoft’s commitment to delivering a refined and engaging Assassin's Creed experience in Mirage.

What are your thoughts on this design choice? Share your opinions in the comments below!