While Assassin’s Creed Syndicate wasn’t the fan favorite many hoped for, its thrilling side missions delivered pure joy to players.

Nine years have passed since Assassin’s Creed Syndicate was released. While the game may not have been the installment fans were hoping for, it still managed to bring something unique to the table: its presentation of the side activities, which were intricately linked to the main narrative.

The game was able to deliver on one aspect. | Image Credit: Ubisoft

It is obvious that Syndicate didn’t even come close to the heights of its predecessors like Black Flag or AC2, but it carved its own niche by offering one of the most enjoyable side missions in the series. Even players who disliked the game have acknowledged this, hoping future titles bring back this approach.

Side activities in Assassin’s Creed Syndicate stood out despite its issues

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One of the criticisms Assassin’s Creed Syndicate faced after its release was how it simplified many core mechanics of the series, especially the combat mechanics. In previous installments, players had to think before engaging in a fight, but now players could take on large groups with minimal effort.

While this made the game more accessible to new players, it reduced the feeling of control of the character that older games offered. However, it made up for these flaws with its focus on chaotic, freewheeling side activities that offered players a break from the main story.

These side activities became one of the most memorable parts of the game. The missions were diverse and flexible in nature, which made them particularly enjoyable. All while continuing the overarching goal of dismantling Crawford Starrick’s criminal empire.

The mission includes hijacking trains, battling enemies, and stealing cargo (while chasing in the boat), highlighting Syndicate‘s more carefree gameplay.

For hardcore Assassin’s Creed fans, Syndicate might not have delivered the deep, intricate gameplay they loved from earlier titles, but it still offered a unique kind of thrill that kept them entertained, as shown in the comments.

Not the beloved installment, but still worth the ride

Players were able to enjoy the exciting side activities. | Image Credit: Ubisoft

Syndicate may not have been the groundbreaking title that many fans were hoping for, but it wasn’t a failure either. In many ways, it represented a shift in the series: one that valued enjoyment, variety, simplified systems, and deep narratives.

While the game lacked the depth of earlier Assassin’s Creed titles (both in terms of narrative and combat), it was undeniably enjoyable and full of pure thrill. This was made even more immersive by the twin protagonists, Jacob and Evie Frye, who brought their chemistry, wit, and unique personalities to the forefront.

For hardcore fans, Syndicate may not have had the depth or complexity of its predecessors, but it delivered something just as important: the pure joy of gameplay, whether they are tearing through the streets of London or sneaking onto trains.

In the end, it’s clear that Assassin’s Creed Syndicate was a flawed, but hidden gem entry in the series. It may not be the installment that everyone remembers fondly, but it certainly brought fun to the series.