Key Takeaways
1. Ubisoft is developing a live-action Assassin’s Creed series with Netflix, officially announced in summer 2025.
2. The series will be set in ancient Rome during 64 AD, a unique setting not previously explored in the franchise.
3. It will feature a standalone story, independent from the games, but may include familiar characters from the Assassin’s Creed universe.
4. Early fan reactions are mixed, with some recalling the disappointing 2016 film adaptation, although the ancient Roman backdrop has received positive feedback.
5. Filming is underway at Cinecittà Studios in Rome, with the series expected to debut in 2027, though this date is unconfirmed.
Franchises like The Witcher and Fallout have demonstrated that transforming video games into TV shows can indeed be successful. Ubisoft is looking to replicate this success with its live-action Assassin’s Creed series, which is being developed alongside Netflix and Ubisoft Film & Television. Although there was much speculation surrounding the project, it was only officially announced in the summer of 2025. Up until now, specific details about the setting and overall narrative had been scarce. Finally, Netflix has shared some crucial information: the series will unfold in ancient Rome during the year 64 AD.
Action and Intrigue in Ancient Rome
Netflix characterizes the series as a thrilling action adventure that showcases a covert conflict between two factions: one aims to control humanity’s destiny through manipulation, while the other fights for the right to choose freely. This aligns well with the fundamental conflict of the Assassin’s Creed franchise. However, the setting is entirely unique; there has never been an Assassin’s Creed game that takes place in ancient Rome before. While Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood, which is available for approximately $15 on Humble Bundle, is also set in Rome, it occurs during the Renaissance, nearly 1,440 years later.
A Standalone Story
It appears that the series will not be directly connected to any of the games, as it will tell its own independent storyline. Nonetheless, this doesn’t rule out the possibility of seeing familiar characters. The Assassin’s Creed universe revolves around memories accessed through the Animus, which means the show could potentially link to known characters or previous events within the franchise, even with its distinct plot. The return of characters like Ezio is a possibility, but for now, that remains purely speculative.
Mixed Reactions and Production Updates
So far, reactions on Reddit have been somewhat subdued. Many fans still recall the 2016 film adaptation, which received a lukewarm response due to its convoluted storyline and unremarkable characters, and currently holds a rating of 5.1 on Moviepilot. If Netflix has taken notes from these shortcomings, the modern-day storyline along with the Animus memories should be woven into the narrative more successfully. On the other hand, the ancient Roman backdrop has been met with mostly positive feedback from fans, as the era of Nero and the Great Fire of Rome feels almost custom-made for the political intrigue and tone typical of the franchise.
Filming for the series has commenced in Rome. According to Netflix, the majority of production is happening at the renowned Cinecittà Studios. The series is spearheaded by Roberto Patino (Westworld, Sons of Anarchy) and David Wiener (Halo, Homecoming), who are serving as creators, showrunners, and executive producers. An overview of the cast has been included in Netflix’s official announcement. The series is projected to debut in 2027, although this has yet to be officially confirmed by the platform.
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