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Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China
Item: Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2015

GenresAdventure, Action, Platformer, Side View Perspective, RPG, Single Player

AvailableApr 21, 2015

PlatformPlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC

DeveloperUbisoft, Climax Studios

Overview

Chronicles: China takes place after the film Assassin's Creed: Embers. It features the Chinese assassin Shao Jun in 1526. After being trained by legendary Italian assassin Ezio Auditore da Firenze, Shao Jun returns to her homeland to exact vengeance against the Templar group Eight Tigers, who wiped out the Chinese brotherhood. Shao Jun's quest took her through Macau, Nan'an, the Forbidden City and the Great Wall, as she killed the Tigers one by one and finally assassinating the final target, Zhang Yong. Years later, Shao Jun, who became an Assassin Mentor and had rebuilt the brotherhood, plotted the assassination of Jiajing Emperor by sending him an elixir of life. Chronicles: China was originally announced in September 2014 as part of the season pass for Assassin's Creed Unity. It was released on April 21, 2015, in North America and April 22, 2015, in other territories, on Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. Chronicles: China is the first title in the franchise to utilize Epic Games' Unreal Engine 3.

Elsewhere

6.3

Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

14%

Mixed (50-79)

75%

Negative (0-49)

11%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions of the critics regarding the story of Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China are varied. Some critics, such as COGconnected and Official Xbox Magazine UK, find the story engaging and focused, with COGconnected even stating that it provides a fresh perspective on the Assassin's Creed franchise. These critics appreciate the narrative's emphasis on revenge and the protagonist's mission to defeat the Templars. However, there are several critics who express negative opinions about the story. IGN, in both their US and Spain reviews, criticizes the lack of heart and passion in the narrative, suggesting that it feels dry and unengaging. Destructoid and Game Revolution both highlight the forgettable characters and weak dialogue, while Polygon mentions the lack of major revelations and character development for the protagonist. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the story of Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China is lacking in depth and fails to capture the essence of the Assassin's Creed series. Critics like CGMagazine and God is a Geek express disappointment in the narrative, with CGMagazine stating that it lacks depth and fails to capture the essence of the series. Similarly, DarkStation describes the story as paper-thin, and GameTrailers mentions the struggle to make an impact and the lack of connection with the main character. While there are some positive aspects mentioned by certain critics, such as the engaging nature of the revenge plot and the fresh perspective it brings, the overall sentiment is that the story of Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China falls short of expectations. The lack of character development, weak dialogue, and shallow delivery contribute to the negative opinions expressed by the majority of the critics.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics are divided on the story of Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China. Some praise its engaging revenge plot, while others criticize its lack of depth, forgettable characters, and weak dialogue. Overall, most critics feel the narrative falls short of capturing the essence of the Assassin's Creed series, with disappointment in its execution and character development.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

42%

Mixed (50-79)

55%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China are varied, but there are some common positive aspects that stand out. Many critics praise the stealth mechanics and emphasize the importance of stealth in the gameplay experience. The ability to hide, sneak, and assassinate enemies is often highlighted as a satisfying and well-implemented aspect of the game. Critics such as Destructoid and Softpedia specifically mention the controls being similar to the core series and the enjoyment of navigating around enemies. The variety of tools and abilities available to the player is also mentioned positively by critics like Attack of the Fanboy and COGconnected. The game's level design and interesting 2D levels are commended by Polygon and The Digital Fix. Overall, the positive aspects of the gameplay include the emphasis on stealth, well-designed levels, and enjoyable navigation. On the other hand, there are some negative opinions regarding the gameplay of Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China. Several critics mention issues with combat, describing it as clumsy, lacking flow, and feeling repetitive. CGMagazine and Game Revolution specifically criticize the combat mechanics, with the latter stating that it becomes boring. The restricted space and lack of improvisation options in combat are mentioned by Gamers' Temple as making it feel constrained. Some critics also mention frustrating control issues and poor climbing movement. Game Informer and TheSixthAxis highlight these control issues, while the latter criticizes the clunky and stilted combat. The lack of challenge in puzzles is also mentioned by Gamers' Temple. Overall, the negative aspects of the gameplay include issues with combat mechanics, control problems, and lack of challenge in certain aspects of the game. The overall consensus among the critics regarding the gameplay of Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China is mixed. While there are positive aspects such as the well-implemented stealth mechanics, enjoyable navigation, and interesting level design, there are also negative aspects such as clumsy combat, control issues, and lack of challenge in certain areas. The emphasis on stealth and the ability to strategize and earn high ratings are generally appreciated by critics. However, some critics feel that the gameplay lacks complexity and originality, with IGN and Gameplanet mentioning the lack of freshness and originality compared to similar games like Mark of the Ninja. Despite the mixed opinions, the game seems to have a solid foundation in terms of stealth mechanics and level design, but falls short in other areas such as combat and control execution.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics have mixed opinions on Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China gameplay. Positive aspects include well-implemented stealth mechanics and level design, while negatives include clumsy combat, control issues, and lack of challenge. While some appreciate the emphasis on stealth, others find the gameplay lacking in complexity and originality compared to similar games.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

59%

Mixed (50-79)

41%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The opinions of the critics regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China are generally positive. Many critics praise the game's art style, describing it as beautiful, incredible, and visually compelling. CGMagazine highlights the game's "beautiful painted look" and artistic style, while Gamers' Temple commends the "ink and watercolor graphics" that strongly convey a Chinese atmosphere. The use of a pseudo-traditional Chinese brush-painted style is also noted by God is a Geek. The visuals are often compared to living paintings, with Destructoid stating that everything looks like a living painting and Attack of the Fanboy describing the game as a beautiful "living painting" of 16th century China. The art direction, watercolor-like palette, and vibrant backgrounds are also praised by Game Revolution, Critical Hit, and Metro GameCentral. However, there are some criticisms regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of the game. Game Informer mentions that the maps lack detail and the icons are hard to see, while Softpedia highlights that some interactive elements are hard to distinguish from the background. The Digital Fix also notes that some backdrops are dull and lifeless, and DarkStation states that while the visual style is gorgeous, the rest of the game lacks momentum and danger. IGN and X-ONE Magazine UK mention that the muted colors and sparse environments make levels feel hollow, although IGN also acknowledges the smart use of multiple background layers that make each area feel like a place. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China has a visually appealing art style and graphics. The game's beautiful painted look, ink and watercolor graphics, and motion comic-like cinematics are praised by multiple critics. The art style successfully evokes the look of Chinese watercolors and adds character to the game. However, there are some criticisms regarding the lack of detail in certain aspects, such as maps and interactive elements, as well as the muted colors and sparse environments that make levels feel hollow. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment is positive, with the game's visuals being a highlight and contributing to its unique atmosphere and aesthetic.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics rave about the stunning art style of Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China, comparing it to a beautiful living painting of 16th century China. The visuals are praised for their watercolor-like palette and vibrant backgrounds. While some criticize the lack of detail in maps and interactive elements, the consensus is that the game's graphics are visually appealing, evoking Chinese watercolors and adding character to the game.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

13%

Mixed (50-79)

88%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The opinions of the critics regarding the Sound Design and Music of Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China are varied. CGMagazine praises the audio, stating that it is topnotch and meets the expectations set by Ubisoft, enhancing the overall presentation of the game. This positive feedback suggests that the sound design and music successfully immerse players in the game world and contribute to their enjoyment. On the other hand, several critics express negative opinions about the voice acting. God is a Geek mentions that the spoken dialogue and voice acting are not remarkable, while The Digital Fix criticizes the voice work, particularly the lack of personality in the main character's voice. The SixthAxis also adds that the protagonist sounds uninterested and monotonous, while the villains sound cartoonish at times. These criticisms indicate that the voice acting fails to bring the characters to life and may detract from the overall experience. Regarding the music, Softpedia comments that the soundtrack is decent, but some stages have themes that clash with the focus on China. This suggests that while the music is generally acceptable, it may not always align perfectly with the game's setting and atmosphere. GameTrailers goes further, stating that the sound design and music are lackluster and do not bring the game to life. This negative assessment implies that the overall impact of the sound design and music may be underwhelming. Overall, the critics' opinions on the Sound Design and Music of Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China are mixed. While CGMagazine and Softpedia appreciate certain aspects of the audio, such as the topnotch quality and decent soundtrack, other critics like God is a Geek, The Digital Fix, and The SixthAxis express disappointment with the voice acting. Additionally, GameTrailers provides a negative assessment of the sound design and music, suggesting a lack of liveliness. Considering these varying opinions, it can be concluded that the Sound Design and Music of Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China may have both positive and negative elements, leaving room for improvement in certain areas.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics have mixed feelings about the Sound Design and Music of Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China. While some praise the topnotch audio that enhances the game's presentation, others criticize the lackluster voice acting that fails to bring characters to life. The music receives a decent rating but faces criticism for not always aligning with the game's setting. Overall, opinions vary, with some highlighting positives and others pointing out areas for improvement.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

89%

Negative (0-49)

11%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The opinions of the critics regarding the voice acting in Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China are varied. Some critics, such as Softpedia and Game Revolution, found the voice acting to be good and adequate for the game. Softpedia specifically mentions that the main characters speak English while guards speak in Chinese dialects, which adds authenticity to the setting. This positive feedback suggests that the voice actors were able to effectively portray their characters and contribute to the overall immersion of the game. However, there are also critics, like The Digital Fix and TheSixthAxis, who express disappointment with the voice acting. The Digital Fix criticizes the lack of personality in the main character's voice work, while TheSixthAxis notes that the protagonist sounds uninterested and monotonous. These negative opinions indicate that the voice actors may have failed to deliver convincing performances, which could have detracted from the overall experience of the game. Another aspect of the voice acting that received criticism is the lack of authenticity in accents. Digitally Downloaded points out the choice of a voice actor without an authentic accent, expressing a desire for more appropriate voice actors in future games. Metro GameCentral also mentions that the English accents of the main characters feel out of place, while guards and minor characters speak in Chinese without subtitles. This inconsistency in accents may have created a disconnect between the characters and the game's setting. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards a mixed opinion on the voice acting in Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China. While some critics found it to be good and fitting for the game, others expressed disappointment with the lack of personality, monotony, and inconsistent accents. The positive feedback from Softpedia and Game Revolution suggests that there were successful aspects of the voice acting, but the negative opinions from The Digital Fix and TheSixthAxis highlight areas where improvements could have been made. Ultimately, the voice acting in this game seems to have left a somewhat underwhelming impression on the critics.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics are divided on the voice acting in Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China. Some praise its authenticity and immersion, while others criticize the lack of personality, monotony, and inconsistent accents. Positive feedback notes effective portrayal of characters, but negative opinions highlight areas for improvement. Overall, the voice acting leaves a mixed impression, with room for enhancement in future games.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

17%

Mixed (50-79)

67%

Negative (0-49)

17%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of the technical performance of Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China, there are some positive aspects mentioned by a few critics. COGconnected, Game Revolution, and Gameplanet all played the game on PS4 and noted that there were no major bugs or technical issues. This suggests that the game runs smoothly on this platform without any significant hindrances to the overall gameplay experience. Additionally, Critical Hit mentions that there were some issues with linking the game to Uplay, but it is unclear if this problem is widespread. Overall, these positive comments indicate that the technical performance on PS4 is generally satisfactory. However, there are also negative aspects mentioned by critics regarding the technical performance of the game, particularly on PC. Gameplanet played the game on PC and criticized the controls for feeling mushy at times and the platforming for having a floaty element that doesn't feel quite right. PC Gamer also played the game on PC and mentioned that the movement feels smudgy, while also highlighting the reliance on drawn-out animations as a downside. The Jimquisition's review on PC heavily criticizes the technical performance and stability of the game, describing it as a "technical shitshow" with frequent stuttering, glitches, and bugs that undermine the visual beauty of the game. These negative comments suggest that the technical performance on PC is lacking and may negatively impact the overall gaming experience. Taking into account the opinions of the critics, the overall consensus regarding the technical performance of Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China is mixed. While there are positive comments about the lack of major bugs or technical issues on PS4, the negative feedback from Gameplanet, PC Gamer, and The Jimquisition on PC highlights significant problems with controls, movement, and stability. It is worth noting that the negative comments are more prominent and detailed, indicating that the technical performance may be a significant drawback for the game, particularly on PC. Players on PS4 may have a more stable and enjoyable experience, while PC players may encounter frustrating issues that impact their immersion and enjoyment of the game.

TL;DR

technical performance

Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China gets a thumbs up for smooth performance on PS4 with no major bugs, but PC critics slam it for mushy controls, floaty platforming, smudgy movement, and frequent glitches. Overall, opinions are mixed, leaning towards technical issues overshadowing the game's visual appeal, making the PC experience less enjoyable compared to PS4.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

15%

Mixed (50-79)

75%

Negative (0-49)

10%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China are varied. Some critics, such as Destructoid and God is a Geek, highlight the presence of New Game+ modes and additional challenges that provide incentive for replaying the game. These modes unlock upon completion and allow players to replay levels, improve their scores, unlock more abilities, and collect missed collectibles. This adds replay value and extends the gameplay experience for those who enjoy mastering levels and achieving higher scores. The presence of side objectives, hidden collectibles, and multiple routes through levels, as mentioned by PSNStores, also contribute to the replay value by encouraging exploration and experimentation. On the other hand, several critics express concerns about the lack of replay value in Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China. CGMagazine and Gamers' Temple both mention the game's short length and simplicity of puzzles as factors that may discourage players from replaying or finishing the game. Game Informer notes that while the game offers rewards for high ratings and side missions, the gameplay starts to lose steam halfway through the campaign, potentially diminishing the desire to replay it. Game Revolution also highlights the repetitive levels and lack of standout moments as potential drawbacks that may reduce the game's replay value. Overall, the critics' consensus on the replay value of Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China is mixed. While there are elements that contribute to the game's replayability, such as the New Game+ modes, additional challenges, and multiple playstyles mentioned by various critics, there are also concerns about the game's short length, lack of variety, and repetitive levels. It is worth noting that some critics, like Impulsegamer and TheSixthAxis, find value in the game's cheap price and the potential for a new direction in the series. However, the overall sentiment suggests that while there are some aspects that may entice players to replay the game, it may not have a strong replay value for everyone.

TL;DR

replay value

Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China's replay value divides critics. Some praise New Game+ modes and challenges for replay incentive, while others cite short length and repetitive levels as deterrents. Mixed opinions on replayability highlight game's strengths and weaknesses, with some finding value in its price and potential for series evolution.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

18%

Mixed (50-79)

80%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China received a mixed reception from the critics. Several reviewers praised the game for its refreshing take on the Assassin's Creed series and its engaging stealth gameplay. Critics such as God is a Geek and Impulsegamer commended the game for its gameplay variety and satisfying platforming mechanics. Official Xbox Magazine UK also highlighted the focused and engaging stealth-platformer experience set in 16th century China. The visuals and art style were also appreciated by CGMagazine and Softpedia. These positive aspects of the game contributed to a generally favorable opinion among some critics. However, there were several criticisms raised by the reviewers regarding Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China. Many critics pointed out the game's weak story and lack of depth in gameplay. CGMagazine mentioned that the game failed to live up to the potential of the Assassin's Creed series and lacked depth in both story and gameplay. The Digital Fix and Game Revolution also expressed disappointment in the execution of the game, with the former highlighting fiddly controls and a dull experience, and the latter stating that the game was ultimately forgettable and lacked replay value. The combat mechanics were a common point of criticism, with Arcade Sushi and Gamers' Temple expressing frustration with the combat and the need for improvements in future installments. These negative aspects of the game contributed to a mixed opinion among the critics. Overall, the consensus among the critics regarding Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China was that it offered a different and refreshing experience within the franchise, but fell short in certain areas. The game was praised for its engaging stealth gameplay, satisfying platforming mechanics, and visually appealing art style. However, it was criticized for its weak story, lack of depth in gameplay, frustrating combat, and in some cases, lackluster execution. While some critics, such as PC Gamer and The Jimquisition, found the game to be a successful and well-paced adventure, others, like GameTrailers and DarkStation, considered it to be a mediocre and forgettable experience. Ultimately, the overall sentiment towards the game was mixed, with both positive and negative aspects influencing the critics' opinions.

TL;DR

Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised its unique take on the series and engaging stealth gameplay, others criticized its weak story, lack of depth, and frustrating combat mechanics. The game was commended for its platforming mechanics and art style but fell short in execution. Overall, opinions varied, with some finding it a refreshing experience while others deemed it forgettable.

CRITIK

Reviews

99 reviews found

Impulsegamer

PlayStation 4

Apr 27, 2015