The critical reviews I've seen on here and elsewhere make me very sad, because this game doesn't deserve it at all. Ubisoft's focus on creating the atmosphere, not the game itself, sets Assassin's Creed apart from other games, as developing the reality of the experience and atmosphere took priority over the gamers' enjoyment. Strangely enough, because they forgot to think much about whether the game is enjoyable, they made it extremely fun. This, of all games, is among the easiest to completely forget reality, or even the fact that you're playing a game, as the atmosphere is so engrossing and beautiful. Yes, there is repetition, but it was executed perfectly as to promote the reality of an assassin's life, without losing the player's interest. Imagine yourself being in the holy lands during the third crusade as a tourist, spy, warrior, assassin, rock climber, and parkourist all at once, while enjoying a highly riveting plot and an astoundingly beautiful atmosphere, coupled with perfectly executed music. That, is the essence of Assassin's creed.
