We take a look at how Ubisoft is painstakingly recreating 9th-century Baghdad for Assassin’s Creed Mirage.
“Assassin’s Creed Mirage” is set in the 9th century during the reign of the Abbasid Caliphate, a period that spanned a century and is often referred to as the Golden Age of Islam. Baghdad emerged as the epicenter of science, culture, and innovation during this time and was renowned as a prominent center for learning.
Through astute propaganda efforts, members of the Abbasid clan strategically pursued dominion over the empire, gaining substantial support from both Arab and Persian communities.
From 750 to 833 AD, the Abbasid dynasty orchestrated a remarkable increase in the empire’s prestige and authority, fostering advancements in commerce, industry, arts, and sciences. This era of prosperity was particularly notable during the reigns of al-Manṣūr, Hārūn al-Rashīd, and al-Maʾmūn.
Assassin’s Creed Mirage: The Era of Strife
The Abbasid Caliphate reached its peak around 861 AD. However, following the assassination of Caliph Al-Mutawakkil, the caliphate underwent a period of extreme instability and strife. This era witnessed rapid and violent successions of four caliphs, with various military groups vying to exert control over them.
The Story of Assassins creed Mirage is set during this period of anarchy. The narrative follows the journey of a young thief named Basim Ibn Ishaq, as he evolves into an assassin subsequent to his induction into an ancient organization called The Hidden Ones. Given the ample drama and espionage prevalent during this period, long-time fans of Assassin’s Creed will undoubtedly find themselves in familiar territory. Moreover, with the game’s return to its linear gameplay origins, a plethora of side quests are available to enable players to delve into the culture and encounter prominent figures from that era.
Assassin’s Creed Mirage: City Division
The city of Baghdad will feature four distinct sections for players to explore. Abassiyah, the hub of learning, served as a place where philosophers, astronomers, and artists thrived, exchanging knowledge. Karkh, the bustling market district, was once alive with people engaging in the trade of goods from around the world. Harbiyah, the industrial district, was a dense and grimy corner of the city where slavers, robbers, and other unsavory individuals sought their livelihoods. Lastly, there was the Round City or Madīnat as-Salām, renowned as the center of power and the home of the caliphate.
Constructed by the caliph al-Mansur, who held the belief that it was his destiny to erect the city and for his descendants to govern it, lay the city at the center. Within the city’s heart resided the caliph’s palace, the mosque, and the headquarters for guards. It also encompassed the renowned library known as the House of Wisdom within its premises.
Assassins Creed Mirage : Meeting Historical Characters
Ubisoft has taken deliberate steps to introduce players to key figures from the Abbasid era. This period was characterized by flourishing arts, culture, and scientific advancements. As a result, players are likely to encounter experts in various fields who were prominent proponents of this era.
Three brothers—Mohammed, Ahmed, and Al-Hasan—collectively known as the Banu Musa, will play a role in the plot and likely assist in furnishing gear and equipment to Basim. Each of them exhibited remarkable expertise in a distinct scientific discipline: astronomy, mechanics, and mathematics. Nevertheless, when their expertise converged, they formed a singular scientific team whose enduring legacy significantly contributed to the progression of science during this extraordinary era of prosperity.
Assassins Creed Mirage The Biomes
While exploring the city of Baghdad is bound to be intriguing, the game also offers ample countryside for players to venture into. In addition to the Alamut fortress, the game features four distinct biomes, including deserts, oases, and grasslands. Despite having a smaller scale than its predecessors, the developers have strived to incorporate a wealth of details, evident in the minutiae. From the exquisite gardens of the circular city to the unforgiving deserts, it falls upon the players to explore and unveil the concealed secrets within the game. Notably, the downloadable expansion, centered around the legendary tale of Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves, becomes available through pre-order.
The Game releases on October October 5 for Consoles and PC.
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