Assassin’s Creed: 5 Must-Plays & 5 That Suck

Potentially the greatest game in the franchise, Assassins Creed 2 arrived at the peak time of the generation and with a wealth of upgrades to boot. It's astonishing progression from the first game sees this is unquestionably the most highly acclaimed in the series.

With a likeable lead in Ezio Auditore - complete with his relatable, thrill seeking, natural story arc of boy to man - players were treated with a believable protagonist.

Stunning visuals, glorious reconstructions of Venice, The Vatican and Florence, and effortless combat meant that the game still stands out amongst its peers.

The title set the stage for each iteration seen thereafter, and established the bar that others should strive to reach.

The timing-based combat can feel a little limited at times, but otherwise it's a fun, charming, artful and purposeful journey from opening to close. The pacing is splendid, with little filler to deter away from the main action, which does somewhat hinder later games. You constantly feel that your actions are meaningful, and leading to the next phase of the story.

Add in tremendous voice acting, great character models and one Leonardo Da Vinci (and his aeroplane), and it's clear this game is something special - for fans of the series, and for those who've never played a single one.