The Assassin’s Creed franchise is gearing up for a revolutionary new chapter, with Ubisoft teasing that its next entry, codenamed Hexe and set for release in 2026, will be “very different” from anything the series has done before. Described as embodying a “strong feminine energy,” this game promises a fresh perspective, centered on a powerful female protagonist and a unique historical setting that’s already generating buzz. As Ubisoft Montreal crafts this bold departure, fans are buzzing with excitement over what could be a defining moment for the nearly 20-year-old franchise. Here’s everything we know about this groundbreaking Assassin’s Creed title, why it’s poised to redefine the series, and what makes its feminine energy so captivating.

A Radical Departure for Assassin’s Creed

Ubisoft’s Vice President and Executive Producer, Marc-Alexis Côté, has hinted that Hexe will stand apart from recent blockbusters like Assassin’s Creed Shadows or Valhalla, which leaned heavily on sprawling RPG mechanics and expansive open worlds. Instead, Hexe is being designed to offer a distinct experience, blending the series’ core elements—stealth, parkour, and historical intrigue—with innovative gameplay and a narrative that prioritizes emotional depth. The phrase “very different” suggests Ubisoft is taking risks, aiming to surprise players with a fresh take on the Assassin’s Creed formula.

The game is set during the 16th-century witch hunts in the Holy Roman Empire, a period when fear of witchcraft led to the persecution of tens of thousands, predominantly women. This dark, tumultuous era provides a rich backdrop for a story that’s both historically grounded and emotionally charged. Unlike the vibrant, war-torn Japan of Shadows or the mythic landscapes of Odyssey, Hexe’s world is expected to be moodier, with fog-laden villages, gothic architecture, and eerie forests that evoke a sense of foreboding. This setting, combined with the game’s unique tone, positions Hexe as a bold experiment for the franchise, one that could appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers drawn to its haunting aesthetic.

The Power of Feminine Energy

The standout feature of Hexe is its “strong feminine energy,” a phrase that has sparked intrigue and speculation across gaming communities. At the center of this vision is the game’s protagonist, rumored to be named Elsa, a young woman navigating the dangers of the witch hunt era. Elsa is described as a complex, multifaceted character, blending resilience, cunning, and a touch of mysticism. Her story is likely to explore themes of empowerment and defiance, as she confronts a society that seeks to suppress her strength. This focus on a solo female lead marks a significant moment for Assassin’s Creed, especially after Shadows split its narrative between Yasuke and Naoe.

Elsa’s abilities are a key part of what makes Hexe feel different. Unlike traditional assassins who rely on physical prowess, Elsa possesses supernatural powers, a first for the series’ mainline protagonists. One confirmed ability, dubbed the “witch walk,” allows her to possess a cat to distract enemies, adding a creative twist to stealth gameplay. Other rumored powers include casting illusions or manipulating emotions, which could tie into the game’s historical context of witchcraft accusations. These abilities, while fantastical, are expected to be grounded in Assassin’s Creed’s sci-fi lore, possibly linked to Isu technology or Animus anomalies, ensuring they feel cohesive within the franchise’s universe.

The “feminine energy” extends beyond Elsa to the game’s broader narrative and aesthetic. The story is likely to highlight female solidarity, with supporting characters—perhaps other accused witches or allies in the Assassin Brotherhood—playing key roles. The game’s art direction, with its emphasis on soft lighting, intricate textiles, and natural motifs, may also reflect this energy, creating a world that feels both beautiful and oppressive. Fans are already praising Ubisoft’s commitment to a female-driven story, especially in an industry where male protagonists often dominate.

Gameplay: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

Hexe is being crafted as a return to the series’ stealth-focused roots, drawing inspiration from earlier titles like Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood and the more recent Mirage. However, it’s not a full throwback, as the game will incorporate “guided open-world elements” that allow for exploration within a more linear framework. This hybrid approach aims to balance the tight, mission-driven structure of classic Assassin’s Creed with the freedom players expect from modern entries.

A major innovation is the “Fear System,” a mechanic inspired by the Jack the Ripper DLC from Assassin’s Creed Syndicate. This system lets players exploit the paranoia of the witch hunt era, using Elsa’s supernatural abilities to sow fear among enemies. For example, players might trigger hallucinations to scare guards or plant false evidence to spark witch accusations, creating opportunities for stealth or escape. The Fear System adds a psychological dimension to gameplay, making Hexe feel like a fresh evolution of the series’ stealth mechanics.

Elsa’s supernatural powers further enhance the experience, offering new ways to approach missions. The “witch walk” is just one example, with other abilities potentially allowing Elsa to blend into shadows or create decoys. These powers are balanced by limitations, such as cooldowns or resource costs, to encourage strategic play. Traditional Assassin’s Creed elements, like hidden blade assassinations and rooftop navigation, remain central, ensuring Hexe retains the series’ signature feel while pushing boundaries.

Why Fans Are Buzzing

The announcement of Hexe’s unique direction and feminine energy has set the gaming world ablaze, with fans on platforms like X calling it a potential game-changer. Several factors are fueling the hype:

A Fresh Historical Lens: The witch hunt setting is a rare choice for video games, offering a blend of historical drama and gothic horror. Fans are excited to explore a world where fear and superstition reign, with every mission steeped in tension. The era’s focus on female persecution makes it a perfect fit for a story about feminine strength.

Supernatural Innovation: Elsa’s magical abilities are a bold departure, adding variety to the stealth and combat that define Assassin’s Creed. The Fear System and “witch walk” have sparked endless speculation about creative gameplay, from outsmarting enemies to manipulating crowds.

A Powerful Female Lead: Elsa’s role as a solo protagonist is a major draw, especially after Shadows faced criticism for balancing two leads. Her supernatural powers and story of defiance resonate with fans eager for a new icon, with some already comparing her to Kassandra from Odyssey.

A Focused, Atmospheric Experience: The shift to a linear, stealth-driven game with a darker tone appeals to fans who miss the series’ earlier days. Hexe’s horror-infused aesthetic sets it apart from the epic scope of recent entries, promising a moodier, more immersive adventure.

Ubisoft’s Ambition: Developed by Ubisoft Montreal, the studio behind Origins and Valhalla, Hexe carries high expectations. The involvement of creative talent like Clint Hocking, known for innovative games, adds confidence that Hexe will deliver something special.

Challenges and Expectations

While the hype is palpable, Hexe faces challenges. Ubisoft’s recent struggles, including the controversial development of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, have made some fans wary. Shadows faced backlash over historical accuracy and a major leak that spoiled its story, and Hexe’s early reveal could invite similar issues. The supernatural elements, while exciting, risk alienating fans who prefer the series’ historical realism. Ubisoft will need to carefully integrate Elsa’s powers into the Animus framework to avoid breaking immersion.

The game’s place in Ubisoft’s packed Assassin’s Creed roadmap—featuring nine titles by 2031, including Jade, Invictus, and a Black Flag remake—raises concerns about resource allocation. Fans are hopeful Ubisoft Montreal can deliver a polished experience, but the studio’s financial challenges and rumors of a Tencent buyout add pressure. Hexe’s success will depend on Ubisoft’s ability to balance innovation with quality, ensuring it stands out in a crowded lineup.

Ubisoft’s Broader Vision

Hexe is a key part of Ubisoft’s strategy to diversify Assassin’s Creed through the Animus Hub, a platform launched with Shadows to unify the franchise’s experiences. Set for release in 2026, Hexe will likely launch alongside other projects, such as the Black Flag remake, showcasing the series’ range. The emphasis on feminine energy aligns with Ubisoft’s push for inclusivity, seen in characters like Naoe and Kassandra, and could set a precedent for future titles.

The game’s narrative may also tie into the series’ modern-day storyline, revitalized in Shadows with new Animus anomalies. Elsa’s story could introduce a present-day character or Isu artifact, connecting Hexe to upcoming projects like Nebula or Scarlet. Fans are eager to see how Ubisoft weaves these threads, especially with hints of a dystopian future circulating online.

What’s Next for Hexe?

As Hexe is still in development, Ubisoft is expected to share more details in 2025, possibly through a gameplay trailer or Ubisoft Forward event. The game’s 2026 release window gives the team time to refine its vision, with community feedback likely shaping its final form. Fans are speculating about everything from Elsa’s backstory to the game’s soundtrack, rumored to feature haunting folk melodies inspired by the era.

Hexe’s reveal has set a high bar, with its feminine energy and unique setting positioning it as a potential standout. As anticipation builds, the game is poised to prove that Assassin’s Creed can evolve while staying true to its roots, delivering a story and experience that resonates with players worldwide.

Conclusion

Assassin’s Creed Hexe is shaping up to be a transformative addition to the franchise, with its “very different” approach, strong feminine energy, and witch hunt setting promising a bold new era. Elsa’s supernatural powers, the innovative Fear System, and a hauntingly beautiful world make Hexe a thrilling prospect, one that could redefine what an Assassin’s Creed game can be. Despite challenges like Ubisoft’s busy slate and the need to balance tradition with innovation, the early details have fans convinced this is a game worth waiting for. As the hidden blade prepares to strike in 2026, Hexe is ready to cast a powerful spell, proving that feminine energy can light up even the darkest corners of history.