While Ezio Auditore da Firenze is a master of direct combat, the true strength of an Assassin lies in their ability to remain unseen. This section delves into the art of silent infiltration, evasion, and elimination, ensuring you can navigate the bustling streets and heavily guarded palaces of Renaissance Italy without raising an alarm. Mastering stealth isn't just about avoiding fights; it's about controlling the flow of engagement, setting up opportune assassinations, and escaping sticky situations with ease. From blending seamlessly into crowds to utilizing environmental elements, we'll equip you with the knowledge to become a ghost in the machine, a silent predator striking from the shadows.
The principles outlined here are applicable across all versions of Assassin's Creed II, whether you're navigating the intricate textures on PC, the familiar controls of PS3 and Xbox 360, or the unique interface of the Wii U. Understanding guard patrol patterns, line-of-sight mechanics, and the various tools at your disposal will elevate your gameplay from a series of frantic encounters to a symphony of calculated, silent movements. Prepare to embrace the shadows, for in stealth, Ezio finds his true power.
Blending and Evasion
Blending is your most fundamental stealth tool. Ezio can seamlessly disappear into groups of citizens, monks, or even courtesans. To blend, simply walk or stand near a group of 3-4 non-hostile NPCs. A white outline around Ezio indicates successful blending. While blended, guards will not detect you unless you perform a suspicious action (like running, climbing, or bumping into them) or if they are in a heightened alert state and actively searching your immediate vicinity. Use blending to move through heavily patrolled areas, approach targets, or escape pursuit.
- Courtesans: These groups are particularly effective for blending and can also be hired to distract guards, creating openings for Ezio.
- Scholars/Monks: Often found near churches or public squares, these groups offer excellent cover.
- Crowds: Any sufficiently dense group of citizens can provide temporary cover, especially when moving at a walking pace.
Evasion is crucial when blending isn't an option or when you've been spotted. Utilize rooftops, haystacks, and wells to break line of sight and lose pursuers. Remember that guards have a limited pursuit range and will eventually give up if you remain out of sight for long enough. Climbing quickly to a high vantage point is often the most effective way to escape a chase.
Silent Takedowns and Distractions
Direct assassinations are the cornerstone of stealth. Always aim for a High Profile Assassination from above or a Low Profile Assassination from behind or while blended. These are instant kills and generate minimal noise. When approaching a target, observe their patrol route and the surrounding environment for opportunities. Haystacks and benches offer excellent cover for silent kills.
Distractions are invaluable for manipulating guard patrols and creating openings. Ezio has several tools at his disposal:
- Throwing Knives: Can be used to silently eliminate isolated guards from a distance or to create a diversion by hitting a wall or object.
- Money Pouch: Throwing florins creates a scramble among citizens, drawing guards' attention away from Ezio. This is particularly effective in crowded areas.
- Whistle: While hiding in a haystack or behind cover, whistling can lure a single guard towards your position for a silent takedown.
- Courtesans/Thieves: Hired factions can be instructed to distract or engage guards, clearing a path or creating a diversion for an assassination.
Always prioritize silent takedowns to maintain your stealth rating and avoid unnecessary combat. Plan your approach, utilize your environment, and strike with precision.