Assassin's Creed II
Assassin's Creed II

Introduction

Begin your Assassin's Creed II journey with this introduction. Learn essential mechanics and steps to navigate Renaissance Italy as Ezio Auditore.

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Introduction

Welcome, Assassin, to the vibrant and dangerous world of Renaissance Italy! This guide will be your most trusted companion as you navigate the intricate web of conspiracy and revenge in Assassin's Creed II. Whether you're a seasoned assassin or new to the Brotherhood, this introduction will equip you with the essential knowledge and actionable steps to begin your journey as Ezio Auditore da Firenze.

Our focus here is on setting you up for success from the very first moments, ensuring you understand the core mechanics and make the most of early opportunities. Pay close attention to the following sections to gain an immediate advantage.

Initial Setup & Controls

Before diving into the narrative, familiarize yourself with the game's controls. While the game offers in-game tutorials, a quick review can save you frustration later:

  • Movement: Use the left analog stick (console) or WASD keys (PC) to move Ezio. Remember, holding the 'High Profile' button (R2/RT on console, Spacebar on PC by default) while moving allows for faster parkour and running.
  • Camera Control: The right analog stick (console) or mouse (PC) controls the camera. Always keep an eye on your surroundings!
  • Combat: The core combat system revolves around attacking, defending/countering, and dodging. Practice these early on against guards to get a feel for the timing. The 'Attack' button (Square/X on console, Left Mouse Button on PC) and 'Counter' button (Circle/B on console, Right Mouse Button on PC while blocking) are your primary tools.
  • Eagle Vision: A crucial ability! Activate Eagle Vision (L3/LS on console, V on PC) to highlight important objects, targets, and enemies. This is invaluable for stealth and reconnaissance.

First Steps in Florence: Sequence 1

Your adventure begins in Florence, and the initial sequences serve as an extended tutorial. Don't rush through them; they introduce vital mechanics.

Memory 1: Boys Will Be Boys

This memory introduces you to Ezio's rivalry with Vieri de' Pazzi and his thugs. Your primary objective is to engage in a brawl.

  1. Follow Federico: Begin by following your brother, Federico Auditore, across the rooftops of Florence. This is your first taste of parkour. Pay attention to the on-screen prompts for climbing and jumping.
  2. The Brawl: Once you reach the Pazzi thugs, you'll be thrust into your first combat encounter.
    • Strategy: Focus on one enemy at a time. Use light attacks to break their guard and heavy attacks for more damage. block (hold R1/RB on console, Right Mouse Button on PC) and counter-attack when prompted.
    • Healing: If your health gets low, remember that you can purchase Medicine from Doctors later, but for now, avoid taking too much damage.
  3. Retrieve the Money: After the brawl, you'll need to collect the money from the ground. This introduces you to looting.
  4. Visit the Doctor: Federico will instruct you to visit a Doctor. Follow the objective marker to the nearest Doctor's shop.
    • Action: Interact with the Doctor to heal any injuries. This is a free service during this introductory memory. In the future, healing will cost Florins.
  5. Return Home: Head back to the Auditore residence to conclude the memory.

Memory 2: You Should See the Other Guy

This memory focuses on a simple errand for your father, Giovanni Auditore.

  1. Speak to Giovanni: Find your father in his study within the Auditore villa. He will give you a letter to deliver.
  2. Deliver the Letter: Follow the objective marker to the designated recipient. This is a straightforward delivery mission, designed to get you familiar with navigating the city.
  3. Collect the Reply: After delivering the letter, you'll receive a reply.
  4. Return to Giovanni: Head back to the Auditore villa and deliver the reply to your father to complete the memory.

Early Game Tips & Best Practices

  • Explore! While the main story guides you, take some time to explore Florence. Climb towers to synchronize viewpoints, which reveals more of the map and provides fast travel points.
  • Collect Feathers: You'll start seeing white feathers scattered throughout the cities. These are collectibles that contribute to a side quest. While not immediately critical, collecting them as you go saves time later.
  • Practice Parkour: The more you move around the city, the better you'll become at free-running. Experiment with different routes and learn to identify climbable surfaces.
  • Stealth is Key: While Ezio is a capable fighter, stealth is often the more efficient and safer approach. Learn to blend into crowds, use hiding spots (haystacks, benches), and perform silent assassinations.

By following these initial steps and tips, you'll lay a strong foundation for your journey as an Assassin. The path ahead is long and filled with challenges, but with careful planning and skillful execution, you will bring justice to those who deserve it.