Summary
- Release Year: 2009
- Genres: Adventure
- Platforms: PlayStation Portable
- Developers: Griptonite Games, Ubisoft Montreal
Assassin’s Creed: Bloodlines: A Hidden Gem on the PSP
Released in 2009, Assassin’s Creed: Bloodlines is the first Assassin’s Creed game on the PSP system. It follows the story of Altair right after the events of Assassin’s Creed as Altair tracks down the last Templars who fled the Holy Land and retreated to the Island of Cyprus.
Bloodlines was developed by Ubisoft Montreal, the same team that developed the original Assassin’s Creed game. The game features many of the same gameplay elements as the console versions of Assassin’s Creed, including stealth, parkour, and combat. However, Bloodlines also introduces some new features and mechanics, such as the ability to use a grappling hook to scale buildings and traverse the environment.
The story of Bloodlines is set in 1191, three years after the events of Assassin’s Creed. Altair, having completed his mission to eliminate the Templars in the Holy Land, is now tasked with tracking down and eliminating the remaining Templars who have fled to Cyprus.
Altair’s investigation leads him to the city of Limassol, where he discovers that the Templars are planning to use a powerful artifact known as the Apple of Eden to control the island. Altair must race against time to stop the Templars and prevent them from using the Apple for their own evil purposes.
Bloodlines features a variety of missions and objectives, including assassination missions, stealth missions, and combat missions. The game also features a number of side missions and collectibles, which can be completed to earn experience points and upgrades for Altair’s weapons and abilities.
One of the most unique features of Bloodlines is the ability to use a grappling hook to scale buildings and traverse the environment. The grappling hook can be used to reach high ledges, cross gaps, and even climb up walls. This adds a new level of verticality to the gameplay and allows Altair to explore the environment in new and exciting ways.
The combat in Bloodlines is similar to the combat in the console versions of Assassin’s Creed. Altair can use a variety of weapons, including swords, daggers, and throwing knives. He can also perform a variety of acrobatic attacks and counters. The combat is fast-paced and fluid, and it allows Altair to take down enemies with a variety of stylish and deadly moves.
The graphics in Bloodlines are impressive for a PSP game. The game features detailed character models, environments, and textures. The lighting and particle effects are also top-notch, and they help to create a realistic and immersive world.
The sound design in Bloodlines is also excellent. The game features a sweeping orchestral score that perfectly captures the atmosphere of the game. The voice acting is also top-notch, and it helps to bring the characters to life.
Overall, Assassin’s Creed: Bloodlines is a great addition to the Assassin’s Creed series. It features a compelling story, fun gameplay, and impressive graphics and sound design. If you’re a fan of the Assassin’s Creed series, or if you’re just looking for a great action-adventure game on the PSP, then you should definitely check out Bloodlines.
Pros
- Compelling story
- Fun and engaging gameplay
- Impressive graphics and sound design
- New features and mechanics, such as the grappling hook
Cons
- Some missions can be repetitive
- The game can be a bit short
- The camera can be finicky at times
Score: 8/10
Assassin’s Creed: Bloodlines is a great addition to the Assassin’s Creed series, and it’s a must-play for fans of the series or for anyone looking for a great action-adventure game on the PSP.
Review Score
7.5/10