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MONSTER

Assassin's Creed: The Ezio Collection

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Assassin's Creed: The Ezio Collection
Item: Assassin's Creed: The Ezio Collection
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2016

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Open World, Puzzle and Logic, RPG, Single Player

AvailableNov 15, 2016

PlatformPlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One

DeveloperUbisoft Montreal

Overview

Make history as the legendary Master Assassin, Ezio Auditore da Firenze, in Assassin’s Creed The Ezio Collection, which includes the acclaimed single-player campaigns and single-player add-on content (no multiplayer content) from Assassin’s Creed II, Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood, and Assassin’s Creed Revelations with enhanced graphics. Live the life of Ezio and learn the ways of the Assassin as he seeks vengeance for the betrayal of his family. Travel through 15th-century Renaissance Italy, including the capital Rome and finally onto 16th-century Constantinople.

Elsewhere

9.0

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

A masterclass in character-driven storytelling, The Ezio Collection shines with Ezio’s transformative arc and rich historical immersion, cementing its legacy as Assassin’s Creed’s emotional core. Yet, clunky pacing, disjointed present-day plots, and dated mechanics undermine its impact, leaving a bittersweet ode to a franchise’s golden era.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The reviews of Assassin’s Creed: The Ezio Collection consistently highlight the trilogy’s narrative strength and character development as its defining features. Critics like 3DJuegos, Digitally Downloaded, and JeuxActu emphasize Ezio Auditore’s evolution from a roguish youth to a seasoned assassin, praising his emotional depth and the historical richness of Renaissance Italy, Constantinople, and Venice. The interconnected stories across Assassin’s Creed II, Brotherhood, and Revelations are lauded for their immersive world-building, with references to figures like Leonardo da Vinci and the conflict between Assassins and Templars. Gameplanet and Stevivor note the trilogy’s enduring appeal, while IGN Adria and The Games Machine highlight its role in shaping the franchise’s legacy. The inclusion of short films like Lineage and Embers (mentioned by Push Square and COGconnected) further enriches Ezio’s story, offering context that deepens his journey. However, several critics point to notable flaws, particularly with Desmond Miles’ storyline and the trilogy’s pacing. 3DJuegos and IGN Spain note that Desmond’s introduction is abrupt, potentially confusing newcomers, while MondoXbox and IGN Spain criticize the present-day plots as less engaging compared to Ezio’s historical adventures. Gaming Age and Vgames mention that the narrative feels dated, with some plot twists and technical limitations (like issues with short films, per Push Square) detracting from the experience. Additionally, PlayStation LifeStyle and GamingTrend observe that while the stories are compelling, they lack deeper exploration of character motivations or storytelling innovation, focusing more on action than narrative complexity. Overall, the consensus among critics is that The Ezio Collection remains a cornerstone of the Assassin’s Creed series, celebrated for its iconic protagonist and historical immersion. While some critiques about pacing, Desmond’s storyline, and dated mechanics persist, the trilogy’s emotional resonance and character growth are widely acknowledged as essential to the franchise’s identity. Jeuxvideo.com and Universo Nintendo stress its foundational role in the saga, while COGconnected and Nintenderos highlight its appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers. Despite its flaws, the collection is seen as a must-play for anyone interested in the series’ evolution, with Ezio’s journey standing out as one of gaming’s most memorable arcs.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Nostalgic charm meets clunky gameplay: 'Ezio Collection' delivers enduring mechanics and polished later entries but falters with dated controls, repetitive quests, and outdated combat—enjoyable for fans, yet falls short of modern standards.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

12%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

88%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Assassin’s Creed: The Ezio Collection receives praise for its enduring core mechanics and the retention of the series’ signature elements despite aging. Critics like 3DJuegos highlight that the formula of action, exploration, and stealth remains intact, with mechanics feeling “current after years” and control adjustments being minor. Digital Chumps and GRYOnline.pl note the integrity of the original experience, emphasizing smooth climbing, movement, and combat in later titles like Brotherhood and Revelations, while Stevivor acknowledges evolutionary improvements in control schemes and mechanics across the trilogy. Even as some games, such as Assassin’s Creed II, show clunkiness, reviewers like GameGrin and Nintenderos point to incremental refinements that enhance the experience over time, with JeuxActu praising the “refined version of the classic AC formula.” The collection’s ability to balance nostalgia with subtle progression is a recurring positive theme. However, the gameplay is frequently criticized for feeling outdated compared to modern standards. Gameplanet and Eurogamer Italy lament clunky controls, imprecise parkour, and dated combat systems, particularly in Assassin’s Creed II, where issues like “tedious opening stretches” (per Push Square) and “awkward camera controls” (from PlayStation LifeStyle) detract from immersion. Gaming Age and GamingTrend describe the experience as a “repetitive slog,” with sidequests blending together and combat mechanics lacking tactical depth. Even in later entries, GameGrin notes that Revelations’s parkour is smoother but still “clunky” compared to newer titles, while IGN Spain acknowledges that some mechanics feel “outdated” despite improvements like villa management and expanded side missions. These flaws, though not deal-breakers, highlight the collection’s struggle to keep pace with modern gaming expectations. The overall consensus among critics is that The Ezio Collection offers a nostalgic but uneven gameplay experience. While many praise its foundational strengths—such as 3DJuegos’s “freshness,” JeuxActu’s “retro” charm, and Nintenderos’ emphasis on unique mechanics—the collection’s dated controls, repetitive design, and lack of modern innovations are significant drawbacks. GameGrin and Gaming Nexus note that the games feel like a “step back” compared to later entries, yet they remain enjoyable for fans due to their core appeal. Critics like COGconnected and XGN acknowledge incremental progress across the trilogy but agree that the experience feels “outdated” by today’s standards. Ultimately, the collection is seen as a worthwhile trip down memory lane for longtime fans, even if its gameplay struggles to match the polish of modern Assassin’s Creed titles.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

The Ezio Collection’s visuals mix modernized perks—like 1080p, smoother frames, and vibrant historical settings—with glaring flaws: stiff animations, blocky models, and Switch-specific compromises. While upgrades hint at progress, they can’t hide the trilogy’s dated core, leaving its charm bittersweet against today’s standards.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

88%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Assassin’s Creed: The Ezio Collection received mixed but generally positive remarks, particularly highlighting technical upgrades and nostalgic charm. Many reviewers praised the 1080p resolution improvements, enhanced draw distances, and sharper textures, which modernized the trilogy for newer consoles. Push Square celebrated the vibrant visuals of Florence and the “modernization of the trilogy,” while XGN highlighted the detailed historical recreations of cities like Constantinople. The remastered versions on PS4 and Xbox One also saw smoother frame rates and better color saturation, with IGN Spain noting brighter details and improved landscapes. Even on the Nintendo Switch, Jeuxvideo.com acknowledged “improved textures, lighting, and colors” in Assassin’s Creed II, though it fell short of PC/PS4/Xbox One versions. These upgrades, while modest, were seen as a step forward for older titles, preserving their artistic appeal despite technical limitations. However, the visual shortcomings of the original games remained glaringly apparent. Critics frequently pointed to outdated character models, stilted animations, and poor texturing that failed to meet modern standards. 3DJuegos criticized the “outdated polygonal quality,” while JeuxActu highlighted persistent issues like “character model flaws (ears, nose), hair, tearing, NPC pop-in, and pixelation in cutscenes.” The Nintendo Switch port faced particular scrutiny, with Eurogamer Italy noting low texture quality and resolution constraints (720p in handheld mode), and PC Games criticizing “creepy eyes” and clipping pupils. Even on more powerful platforms, games like Assassin’s Creed II were seen as less polished, with MondoXbox pointing to “blocky character models” and stiff animations. These flaws underscored the trilogy’s age, making its visuals feel increasingly dated compared to newer entries in the franchise. Overall, critics agreed that the Ezio Collection’s visual upgrades were a mixed bag—improvements were evident but insufficient to fully modernize the games. While some praised the nostalgic charm of historical settings and the modest technical refinements (e.g., Push Square’s “vibrant visuals” or XGN’s “aesthetic quality”), others emphasized that the trilogy’s graphical limitations remained a significant drawback. The Switch port, in particular, faced criticism for its compromises, with Universo Nintendo acknowledging “clear downgrades” compared to previous-gen versions. Despite these issues, many reviewers conceded that the collection retained its appeal through its immersive world-building and historical detail, even if its visuals couldn’t keep pace with modern expectations. The consensus was that while the Ezio Collection’s graphics were a step forward for older titles, they ultimately highlighted the gap between early 2010s design and today’s standards.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

music and sound design

Description unavailable

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

While Assassin’s Creed: The Ezio Collection’s voice acting earns praise for its immersive Spanish and Italian dubs (lauded by LaPS4, Hobby Consolas), critics like Push Square and Starbit highlight inconsistent quality and technical flaws in other tracks, underscoring uneven regional execution.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

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

The voice acting in Assassin’s Creed: The Ezio Collection receives mixed but largely positive reception from critics, with several reviewers highlighting its strengths. LaPS4 praises the Spanish dubbing, noting the involvement of renowned actors like Juan Diego Botto and calling it a “positive aspect” of the games. Hobby Consolas lauds the voice acting as “un doblaje para quitarse el sombrero,” emphasizing its high quality and immersive nature, while Multiplayer.it describes the Italian voice work as “ottimo” (excellent), praising its richness and ability to transport players into the game’s historical settings. Nintenderos also commends the Spanish dubbing as “excellent,” though it acknowledges the need for a language pack to access it. These reviews collectively underscore the technical and artistic merits of the localized voice performances, particularly in Spanish and Italian, which enhance the games’ narrative depth and authenticity. However, some critics express significant dissatisfaction with the voice acting, particularly regarding its quality and consistency. Push Square delivers a strong critique, condemning the voice acting in Assassin’s Creed II as subpar, though they do not elaborate on specific issues. Starbit similarly criticizes the vocal work for being of “lower quality,” attributing it to audio compression that detracts from immersion. These negative assessments suggest that while certain dubs (like Spanish and Italian) are well-received, others may suffer from technical limitations or uneven execution, creating a fragmented experience across different language tracks. The contrast between praise and criticism highlights the variability in how voice acting is perceived, possibly influenced by regional production standards or player expectations. Overall, the critics’ opinions reflect a nuanced consensus: while the voice acting in The Ezio Collection is generally praised for its quality in specific languages—particularly Spanish and Italian—there are notable criticisms regarding consistency and technical shortcomings. LaPS4, Hobby Consolas, Multiplayer.it, and Nintenderos celebrate the immersive and professionally delivered performances, whereas Push Square and Starbit point to flaws that undermine the experience. This divergence suggests that the voice acting’s effectiveness may depend on the language version accessed, with some dubs standing out as exceptional while others fall short. Despite these contradictions, the majority of reviews acknowledge the effort put into localization, even if not all aspects meet every critic’s standards.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Assassin’s Creed: The Ezio Collection delivers technically stable but underwhelming remasters across platforms. PS4 and Xbox One offer smoother frame rates and quicker load times, while Switch struggles with 30fps, lag, and inconsistent graphics. All versions suffer from outdated visuals, persistent bugs, and a lack of modernization—30fps feels archaic. Nostalgia can’t mask the flaws: this is a port, not a revival.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

87%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of Assassin’s Creed: The Ezio Collection across platforms shows mixed but generally stable results, with some positives noted by critics. On PS4, reviewers like PlayStation LifeStyle praised smoother frame rates and reduced texture pops compared to original releases, while LaPS4 highlighted improved load times despite outdated effects. For the Nintendo Switch, IGN Adria and Jeuxvideo.com acknowledged stable 30fps performance, with some graphical improvements in handheld mode, though Eurogamer Italy noted pop-up effects and low-resolution textures as persistent issues. On Xbox One, COGconnected and ZTGD observed consistent 30fps with quick load times, while IGN Spain praised visual upgrades despite frame drops. Overall, the remasters are technically stable but lack significant modernization across all platforms. However, technical shortcomings dominate the critiques. On PS4, 3DJuegos and JeuxActu criticized 30fps limitations, graphical glitches, and a lack of V-sync, while GameGrin highlighted movement issues in Assassin’s Creed II. The Switch faced more pronounced challenges: Gaming Nexus and Hobby Consolas pointed to long load times and hardware strain, with Multiplayer.it noting inconsistent graphical fidelity across the trilogy. On Xbox One, IGN Spain lamented frequent frame drops and minimal technical upgrades, while MondoXbox criticized the absence of bug fixes or new features. Across all platforms, critics like LaPS4 and Stevivor emphasized that the games feel outdated, with 30fps being a common limitation despite minor optimizations. The overall consensus among critics is that The Ezio Collection is technically stable but underwhelming as a remaster. While PlayStation LifeStyle and IGN Adria acknowledged improvements in frame rates and load times on their respective platforms, the lack of 60fps, outdated graphics, and unresolved bugs from original releases were widely criticized. Platforms like PS4 and Xbox One saw more consistent performance, but the Switch version faced significant hardware-related challenges, as highlighted by Eurogamer Italy and GamingTrend. Despite these issues, many reviewers, including Stevivor and XGN, acknowledged that the games remain playable and charming, even if they fall short of modern technical standards. The collection’s technical performance reflects a balance between nostalgia and the limitations of porting older titles to newer hardware.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

A nostalgic, content-heavy package that entices fans with Ezio’s epic journey and 100+ hours of exploration, but its aging mechanics and repetitive quests limit appeal for those seeking fresh challenges—ideal for completists or history buffs, less so for others.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The replay value of Assassin’s Creed: The Ezio Collection is widely praised for its substantial content, nostalgic appeal, and depth. Critics like GameGrin and Gameplanet highlight that the trilogy’s long stories, historical settings, and collectibles make it a worthwhile revisit for fans, while Digital Chumps and PlayStation LifeStyle note the enduring charm of Ezio’s narrative and the inclusion of DLCs and side quests. The collection’s sheer volume of content—over 100 hours for full completion, as emphasized by Hobby Consolas and Jeuxvideo.com—adds to its appeal, particularly for completists. Additionally, the portability of the Switch version (mentioned by GamingTrend) and improved visuals on modern platforms (as noted by Multiplayer.it) enhance accessibility, making it a compelling package for both newcomers and returning players seeking nostalgia. However, several critics point out limitations in replayability due to aging mechanics and repetitive gameplay. Gaming Age and Vgames criticize the games’ outdated control schemes and monotonous sidequests, arguing that they deter repeat playthroughs for veterans. Stevivor and COGconnected also note that the collection may feel redundant for those who’ve already played the titles, with some reviewers (like ZTGD) stating it’s more of a "trip down memory lane" than an engaging experience. Additionally, IGN Spain and Gamers’ Temple mention that the lack of new content or modern updates reduces long-term appeal, particularly for players seeking fresh challenges. While God is a Geek acknowledges the games’ enjoyability despite their dated design, others like GamingTrend and Universo Nintendo suggest that the core mechanics may not justify multiple playthroughs for all audiences. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward acknowledging the collection’s value for fans and newcomers alike. While many praise its historical significance, storytelling, and extensive content (as highlighted by GameGrin, Jeuxvideo.com, and Nintenderos), others caution that its replayability is largely tied to nostalgia or completionism rather than innovative gameplay. The divide between older and newer players is clear: fans of the series, as noted by Multiplayer.it and XGN, find it a must-have for its emotional resonance and legacy, while critics like Gaming Age and Vgames argue that its repetitive nature limits broader appeal. Despite these critiques, the collection remains a significant package for those invested in Ezio’s journey, even if its replayability is more about revisiting a beloved story than discovering new challenges.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

41%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment toward Assassin’s Creed: The Ezio Collection is largely positive, with reviewers emphasizing its nostalgic value, strong storytelling, and accessibility for both fans and newcomers. Critics like 3DJuegos, GameGrin, and LaPS4 highlight the trilogy’s enduring appeal, praising its historical significance, character development, and cohesive narrative arc centered on Ezio Auditore. The remastering efforts are seen as a boon for older hardware, with Eurogamer Italy and IGN Adria noting improved portability on Nintendo Switch and visual enhancements that make the games more approachable. Additionally, the collection’s value-for-money proposition is frequently lauded, with Digital Chumps and Gameplanet pointing to its affordability and the opportunity to experience three iconic titles in one package. Many reviewers, such as Nintenderos and Universo Nintendo, stress that while the games are aged, their charm and cultural impact on the Assassin’s Creed series remain compelling. However, several critics point to notable drawbacks, including outdated mechanics, technical limitations, and a lack of substantial upgrades. 3DJuegos and GRYOnline.pl criticize the absence of graphical improvements or multiplayer modes, arguing that these omissions diminish the collection’s appeal compared to newer entries in the franchise. JeuxActu and Vgames specifically mention the high price tag (50€) as a barrier, questioning whether the remaster justifies its cost given its technical shortcomings. Others, like Gaming Nexus and Starbit, note that while the Switch port is functional, the games feel dated in terms of gameplay and visuals, with PlayStation LifeStyle and COGconnected suggesting they are less appealing to seasoned players seeking modern polish. The lack of significant changes from original releases also draws criticism, as highlighted by GRYOnline.pl and IGN Spain, who view the collection more as a nostalgic relic than an essential upgrade. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among reviewers is that The Ezio Collection remains a worthwhile purchase for fans of the series and newcomers alike, though its appeal is somewhat niche. XGN and NZGamer strongly endorse it as a must-buy for its cultural significance and storytelling, while Stevivor and IGN Spain acknowledge its value for those unfamiliar with the original trilogy but question its necessity for returning players. The mixed reception reflects a balance between appreciation for Ezio’s legacy and frustration with the collection’s technical compromises. Ultimately, as noted by Push Square and Hobby Consolas, the package is best suited for dedicated fans who prioritize nostalgia and narrative over cutting-edge gameplay, making it a bittersweet but ultimately rewarding experience for those invested in Assassin’s Creed’s history.

TL;DR

Nostalgia-driven, story-rich, and budget-friendly, The Ezio Collection is a bittersweet love letter to fans, blending timeless charm with outdated mechanics and a steep price tag that feels out of step with its aging gameplay.

MONSTER

Reviews

92 reviews found

XGN

Xbox One

Nov 25, 2016

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review strongly recommends the Ezio Collection as a must-buy, emphasizing its value, nostalgic appeal, and cultural significance in the Assassin's Creed series. It concludes with a resounding endorsement for both longtime fans and new players.

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InsideGamer.nl

PlayStation 4

Nov 27, 2016

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A mixed assessment: the collection is a worthwhile nostalgia trip for Ezio's story and gameplay but suffers from outdated mechanics, technical flaws, and an underwhelming Desmond storyline. It serves as a decent placeholder for fans awaiting new content.

GameOver.gr

PlayStation 4

Dec 7, 2016

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Ezio Collection is praised for its curated content and nostalgic value, with 'AC II' standing out as a near-perfect sequel. However, the lack of substantial changes in the remaster and the decline of the series post-Ezio Collection are noted as drawbacks. The review leans toward recommending it to fans but not as a necessity for others.

Hobby Consolas

Nintendo Switch

Feb 17, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that The Ezio Collection is recommended for fans seeking to revisit Ezio's story on the go, despite its age. It acknowledges the games' flaws but emphasizes their enduring appeal and quality as a collection.

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NZGamer

Xbox One

Nov 23, 2016

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Ezio Collection is a must-buy for new players due to its compelling story and three games at a discounted price. However, it fails as an upgrade for those who already own the trilogy, primarily due to subpar graphical improvements and the removal of multiplayer features.

GamingTrend

Nintendo Switch

Feb 22, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes it is a nostalgic and great reintroduction to the Ezio Trilogy, praising its accessibility, gameplay, and portability while acknowledging its age and minor flaws.

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Attack of the Fanboy

Xbox One

Nov 14, 2016

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review calls the Ezio Collection a worthwhile remaster that revitalizes the trilogy with improved visuals and additional content, though it lacks groundbreaking innovations. It recommends the collection as a must-play for fans of the series.

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Gameblog.fr

PlayStation 4

Nov 23, 2016

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite being a somewhat lazy remaster with unaddressed flaws, the collection is celebrated as the pinnacle of Assassin's Creed's storytelling and character development. It serves as a nostalgic tribute to Ezio's legacy, though it highlights the need for more substantial improvements in future entries.

Digital Chumps

PlayStation 4

Dec 18, 2016

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes positively, stating the collection is worth the price for fans and newcomers due to its strong stories and value, despite minor flaws in remastering and gameplay mechanics.

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Vandal

PlayStation 4

Nov 16, 2016

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes positively, calling the collection a worthwhile purchase for new players and a nostalgic trip for veterans. It praises the trilogy's enduring quality despite its age and acknowledges Ubisoft's effort in remastering the games.