Game Introduction
Welcome, Misthios, to the vast and beautiful world of Ancient Greece! Assassin's Creed Odyssey is an epic RPG that casts you as a mercenary, a descendant of the legendary Leonidas, caught in the throes of the Peloponnesian War. Your journey will be one of choice, consequence, and thrilling combat. This introductory section will guide you through your very first steps in the game, ensuring you're well-equipped to face the challenges ahead.
Character Selection: Kassandra or Alexios?
Upon starting a new game, your first crucial decision will be to choose your protagonist: Kassandra or Alexios. This choice is purely cosmetic and affects only the voice acting and character model; the story, quests, and abilities remain identical. We recommend choosing the character whose voice and demeanor you find more engaging, as you'll be spending hundreds of hours with them!
The Prologue: Leonidas' Last Stand
Before you even meet your chosen hero, you'll be thrown into a historical battle sequence as the legendary Spartan King Leonidas. This serves as an exhilarating tutorial for the game's combat mechanics. Pay close attention to the prompts:
- Basic Attacks: Use your primary attack for quick strikes and your secondary attack for heavier, slower blows.
- Dodging: Master the dodge mechanic (usually Circle/B) to avoid incoming attacks. Timing is key!
- Parrying: Learn to parry (usually L1+Square/LB+X) to stun enemies and open them up for counter-attacks. This is a vital skill for later encounters.
- Abilities: You'll briefly experience some of Leonidas' powerful abilities. These are a taste of the active skills you'll unlock for your main character.
Successfully defending the Hot Gates as Leonidas will transition you into the main narrative.
Chapter 1: Kephallonia - "So It Begins"
Your true adventure starts on the idyllic island of Kephallonia, where you'll be introduced to your character as a struggling mercenary. The very first quest, aptly named "So It Begins," serves as your primary tutorial for the open world and core gameplay loops.
Quest Objectives:
- Confront Duris: Your initial task is to collect a debt from Duris. Head to the marked location on your map, which will be a small farmstead.
- Deal with the Thugs: Duris won't be cooperative, and you'll face a small group of thugs. This is your first real combat encounter as your chosen Misthios.
- Strategy: Focus on one enemy at a time. Use your basic attacks and practice your dodges. Don't be afraid to use your Spartan Kick ability (if unlocked early) to knock enemies off ledges or into environmental hazards.
- Looting: After defeating the thugs, remember to loot their bodies for Drachmae (the in-game currency) and crafting materials.
- Collect the Debt: After the fight, Duris will be more amenable. Interact with him to collect the debt.
- Return to Markos: Head back to Markos' vineyard, your base of operations on Kephallonia, to report your success.
Key Takeaways from "So It Begins":
- Exploration: Kephallonia is your sandbox for learning. Explore its nooks and crannies.
- Combat Fundamentals: This quest reinforces basic combat. Practice makes perfect!
- Looting and Resources: Always loot enemies and chests. Resources like Wood, Iron, and Leather are crucial for upgrading your gear.
- Dialogue Choices: Notice the dialogue options presented. Your choices can sometimes influence outcomes, even in minor ways.
Completing "So It Begins" will immediately lead into the next main quest, "Debt Collector," where you'll continue to hone your skills and uncover more of Kephallonia's secrets. Get ready, Misthios, your odyssey has truly begun!