TGS 09: Why Assassin's Creed II is GTA, Hitman and Arkham Asylum in one stealthy package

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Part Agent 47, part Dark Knight, all merciless murdering

It’s GTA Venice

Well, almost. Along with the vast free-roaming recreation of the canal-riddled city, Ezio’s adventure features other GTA-style features. Evading guards is similar to GTA IV. You’re tasked with breaking your pursuers’ line of sight, and must escape a perimeter highlighted on your map. You can also change your clothes to better fit in with crowds. And you can even hire a gang of thieves or mercenaries to fight for you – a bit like San Andreas’ gang system.


Ezio has more brutal pain-bringing takedowns than Batman

OK, so fighting in a glorified hoodie isn’t as cool as knocking out goons with the Dark Knight’s multi-purpose cape of win. But you won’t mind when you pull people off roofs or throw Ezio from a three story building before crushing two unsuspecting foes. The ice-cold Italian even has access to a huge database that gives detailed info on characters and locations (like the one in Arkham Asylum) and a WayneTech-esque smoke bomb to blind guards.


Enemies are as smart as Metal Gear’s guards

Just like the baddies Snake has to sneak past, the A.I. Ezio has to face is faster, more brutal and more determined than in the first game. Guards are much more thorough when looking for you now, often stabbing haystacks and other potential hiding places while searching for you. They’re loads quicker on their feet, too. And they’ll surgically serve you up a swift death if you trip up while running from them.

From what we’ve seen so far, Ezio’s game looks set to right the wrongs from the original Assassin’s Creed. With a promised 27 hour campaign, greater mission variety, and more considered stealth play, we’re looking forward to taking a murderous Venice vacation.

Sep 23, 2009

David Meikleham
David Meikleham
Google AMP Stories Editor

David has worked for Future under many guises, including for GamesRadar+ and the Official Xbox Magazine. He is currently the Google Stories Editor for GamesRadar and PC Gamer, which sees him making daily video Stories content for both websites. David also regularly writes features, guides, and reviews for both brands too.