Unit 6, Task 4: Analysis of a Computer Game or Film of Choice

In this task, I shall be analysing a game of my choice; watching the first five minute sequence. I shall be commenting on the content, genre, distribution method, codes and conventions, historical context, narrative, and representation in an article style. The game I have chosen is Assassins Creed 3: a personal favourite game of mine.

Actual Content

Content, obviously is one of the most important factors when it comes to reviewing any kind of media piece. It is the content that sells, that entices, that makes the viewer want more and more. Ultimately, it is the content that you rate; all the other factors are simple additions.

In the first the first minute (3:17-4:17), the storyline jumps straight into explaining the story of the game trilogy so far. Assassins Creed fans know that the game is heavily loaded with mythology and law.

The gruff man in the picture proves to be Desmond (The protagonist) actual father; a figure that didn’t show up until the last part of the second game (Assassins Creed: Brotherhood). In the first two minutes, a lot was explained about how Desmond was transformed from a low-life wasting money on alcohol and other abusive substances, to becoming an essential part in a new wave of technology to help save the world.

What is also interesting, in the last few moments, the enemy is introduced. (The Templars). Fans of the game experienced the plot twist first hand in the first game, however for those who don’t know; the Templars, or “Abstergo Industries”. In the second minute, the introduction explains that Desmond was captured by Abstergo and used his heritage as a way to find something; the Apple; one of the “pieces of Eden” artefacts scattered across time. The apple is the main object for helping Desmond later on. But for this moment, little is explained about what they will actually be used for. I feel as if it is meant to provoke an emotion, especially in the first few moments; as the scene is stunning of a City overview; yet the tone is quite dark and mysterious, making the consumer have a preferred view. It is surprising to see how much information they can fit into a minute or so.

Moving onto one to two minutes (4:17-5:17)

The first word that is mentioned in this part is “enemy”. This immediately sets the tone for the next minute, it takes a dark turn. Beliefs and religion play a huge part of this game trilogy. Even in the first game, you are cast into a very religious time and are fully aware of different ethnicities as you travel throughout Jerusalem. As avid fans know, this is where it all started off. Quickly, the tone is slightly lightened as “The Animus is explained.” The animus is a device that allows certain people; with a strong heritage to experience the lives of their ancestors. And with this power, The Animus shows history how it really happened. With this concept, the whole game is based on this fact.

In the final moments, there are words of freedom. It is a known fact that the Templars seemed to have the upper hand on the Assassins, and fans of the game; who have actually played the game know of the struggle The Order has against The Templars. However, the actual plot of the game now comes into play, and starts to be explained in these last few moments.

From the image that is shown, whilst this is explained; it is clear the plot is about the end of the world. And rather subsequently, Desmond is the only person that can save it. This is kind of obvious, and I have to admit; I saw it coming. However, it proves to be a very good plot for the game. This links to a lot of movies happening currently; where there is only one character that can save the world.

In the final few seconds, there is a rather emotional and empowering scene. It describes that how Desmond can save the world, but only through the Animus; through his heritage, a rather empowering statement that re-enforces the value of being proud of who you are, of your family and where you have come from.

In the second to third minute minute (5:17-6:17)

The rather patriotic feel continues in these two minutes. Yet the “epic” feel continues, as the imagery helps with the voiceover. In this particular bit, the feeling given out is very inspiring,

and helping to peace together the last two games. This is a good part of new comers to the game trilogy to catch up on what they have missed. This particular scene is an iconic image for Assassins Creed, as Desmond’s Ancestors; (Altair and Ezio) stand above Desmond. Though this is subtle; it signifies a lot about how both characters are massively respected within the game and mentioned almost as if they were iconic figures. In the eyes of the gamer; these two characters, are, in a sense.

Finally, that particular scene ends with a rather dramatic twist; like a lot of Assassin’s Creed storyline; there is a twist. Desmond becoming the key to saving the world. But what I find most amusing is how Assassins Creed III breaks into the fourth dimension. The date for which the world was predicted to end was the “21/12/12”. And that was the supposed day that the Mayans predicted that the world would end. Though this is a small detail, it breaks down the barrier slightly between reality and the game. Something I think is unique to games today. Although there is one key issue that is flawed within the narrative at this point. In this particular scene (5:38); it mentioned that “none of us knows what it’ll bring”. Meaning the date, however previously in one of the earlier scenes it shows the world seeming to end (see the picture above). It follows with this: “But something larger than the Assassins and Templars is approaching. Bigger than all of us. And if we can’t find a way to stop it-these next few weeks will probably be our last. EVERYONE’S last.” Though the world probably is mentioned, this is counted as confusion in the plot; they either should or should not know that the world is going to end. This is a subtle message, yet if you process and break down the scenes like I have done, you can clearly see this small mistake.

However moving on, it continues to explain why the Ancient Civilisation, a powerful race (Their version of The Mayans); the ones who predicted the date of their ending of the world. They prove to be the creator of “The Apple” the ancient artefact. Though this explanation is short and sweet, it fills in a missing peace to the puzzle, again adding more to the rich backstory that the game actually has. But this adds a more fantasy level to the game, (if the Apple of Eden isn’t already). They mention that the Ancient Civilisation has powers; suggesting a supernatural

twist to the game that has, up until this point, proved to be very realistic. Akin to our own History.

Finally there are two final scenes within this minute that are tied together. The first scene shows the place that Desmond will be based at for the entire game; this helps develop the plot and set the scene for what the gamer is about to experience. It is mentioned that the Apple and the Ancient civilisation lead him to that particular point; this adds again to the development of the plot and scene.

In this final part, the empowering theme continues; as the scene explains how Desmond, with the knowledge of both his Ancestors, with the Apple of Eden to support him in his journey to save the world, a very inspiring and light tone to end on, considering that a minute before the subject was dark and depressing.

Moving onto the third to fourth minute (6:17-7:17)

In the final few seconds of the third minute, the what seems to be a very long introduction comes to an end before the actual characters in the real-time game comes to life.

One quote, the last sentence is very empowering; “We stand by his side, ready to support him however we can. His name is Desmond Miles and he has brought us to the end.” This concludes the rather “epic” feel to the Introduction to this game. It made me feel ready to jump straight into the game, that I wall fully refreshed upon the story, and what to expect.

The next scene moves into what the actual game will look like; with what seems to be the main characters all in one van. Personally I feel, as if the intro could have been better, as it feels a bit awkward to watch.

Not much dialogue is shared between the four characters here. I expected more, especially from such an epic-feeling introduction. However, thankfully the awkward silence stays for only a few moments before the narrative kicks in.

However, one of the small details within the car ride catches my eye; on the stereo (as seen in the picture to the left) it says a specific date; “10.31.12” this, linking back to the date of the end of the world. That actual date was when the game was released, again, a small detail that although seems relevant to the time (So players know how long it is until the world was meant to end in the game) It was actually a small break in the “4th wall” meaning to break the reality between reality and game. A small, but very clever detail.

The first line of words spoken, again is a small detail; yet is spoken by Desmond’s father (the narrator of the introduction). Short and commanding. The two words; “We’re here.” Clearly sums this particular character up; he is driven, focused and set on one goal. What I love about this game, is that they waste no time in introducing the characters and getting straight into their personalities.

The minute ends with Desmond’s father, again saying “Let’s go.” Before he speaks; the place as to where Desmond and his team will be based is shown, again this links into setting the tone and scene; giving the players a small hint as to what the “base” or the main area as to which they will play Desmond will look like.

Finally, moving onto the fourth to fifth minute (7:17-8:17)

At (7:20) the introduction officially ends, the player can now control the character and start to move Desmond around a little and explore the area. Though movement seems to be restricted, from seeing the actual video on the game and experiencing the game myself, I particularly remember not being able to run or

climb on anything; all the character does is walk. The game forces you to walk into the cave, whether you want to or not, which links to the oppositional style of viewing; as really you want to be able to test all the mechanics of the game.Though this may look like it’s not needed; I feel personally as if it is vital. The first moments in a game, usually, you are expected to be thrown into a battle and learn the tools quickly to survive. But one of the reasons as to why I love this game so much, is that it gives you little tastes; little bits so you have a feel of how the game works and how you play it in your own hands before you are thrust into the main part of the game. A small, but clever way of “dipping your toe in the water” as so to speak.

Finally, the last moments of the first five minutes of the game ends with another cut scene. This cut scene in particular doesn’t seem to be that important; however it shows one part of the game that seems to be very important; the Apple. The artefact. No doubt this is an important object, and seems to be the key to unlocking something. The reason why I say this, is because, as Desmond walks up to the wall inside the cave; the artefact glows. It ends with a shot of Desmond and the glowing artefact, and by the looks of things; it looks as if it will open the door to something inside.

Seeming as the rest of the characters in the background are holding boxes, I feel as if beyond the wall; is where they will setup their base for the game, and set up the Animus; leading to the player actually getting into the game and playing the characters in the set world for Assassins Creed III.

To sum up, there is a lot to get your head around if you are not familiar with the plot of Assassins Creed, and it may take more than one glance at looking at the whole story to really get what’s going on. Assassins Creed touches on really important moments in time; morals and religion are defiantly a high issue here, as if portrayed in the wrong way; it can easily lead to upset. (Thankfully, they haven’t done that yet.) But the epic feel of having such an important role within this game is always present, something I personally love about Assassins Creed. You can change history, simply by playing along with the game. Although this is seen as the preferred view, I hope in the future; the games will give you more options to choose your own pathways.

Genre

Technology

Seeming as Assassins Creed is a game; the very point of this piece of media is the technology. Though the game isn’t just an interface, especially now, as our games are becoming more and more advanced. We have found new ways to improve the graphics, to improve player input, to improve the system of the game it’s self and even the narrative. Something I feel is improving by the year.

The technology used in this game has been stated to be “next generation” playing on ships later on in the game has never been attempted by Assassins Creed before. However, relating back to the first five minutes; there isn’t much technology used, apart from GCI, as mostly the introduction is one huge cut scene. But then again, you can argue that the start of the game is the most impressive, as it must have taken a long time to devise the introduction sequence.

But what poses a greater question about technology is the actual marketing of the game it’s self. This game in particular was made in 2012. 2012 was the last year of the original consoles. This was before the movement of the “Next generation” of consoles. This was a huge marketing plan, as the new releases of PlayStation and Xbox were released in 2013. These, ultimately made fans of technology ditch their old beloved consoles, for the new and supposedly “improved and enhanced consoles.” Meaning games like Assassins Creed III can only be played on the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC. And with the next generation released, a lot of people threw away the old consoles before realising that they couldn’t play those games. This immediately suggests a Hierarchy, in a way, to me. A Hierarchy of gamers, almost. But this poses a more philosophical question to society. Is this fair? Is this just? I don’t personally believe this is fare, and does this discriminate against our society?

Really, if you think about it, this can easily suggest that there is a bigger divide between social classes then we realise. Bringing out the new consoles means money. And considering that the original price of the PlayStation 4 was £400, not a lot of people could afford the new PlayStation, making the Hierarchy a little more evident within our culture of gamers. This represents our cultures and classes, even if we don’t realise it.

Distribution Method

Unlike film. Games are only dispersed upon certain consoles. And linking back to what I have previously mentioned about the division of classes due to the price of consoles, only certain consoles can hold this game.

The game it’s self has been distributed over a wide range of consoles. But originally, it was for the Xbox 360 (and Elite) and the PlayStation 3 (and Slim). Usually, it takes a while for games to be released on the PC; due to the fact that the creators of the games want to see whether it will do well, before releasing the games out for PC release. Grand Theft Auto IV is a prime example of a major game that has done well, and has later released for the PC. This can also link to advertisement for the game; as often they will release a game for the big consoles, before accessing the bigger community the PC holds, as predominantly, the YouTubers use computers to record their content.

But in relevance to Assassins Creed, the PC was released on the 23thrd of November, whereas the release date for the consoles was the 31st of October. However one more console has been added to the list; the Wii U, the Wii U, compared to most consoles has been generally used for kids games, and not more mature themes like Assassins Creed III. However, it was released on the 30th of November. Typically the games for the WII U and DS, considered the “worse” consoles to play games like this, usually miss out content, and are usually completely different to the PC and console games. This can cause controversy, and again links to the fairness and society issue I have already raised?

Generic codes and Conventions

Generic codes and conventions are generally described as the characteristics of a certain type of media. In this case, I shall find out what the general characteristics of an Assassins Creed game is:

. The climbing/Parkour (Movement and how it plays)

. The PvE (Player verses environment, or bad characters)

. The Fight Style

. Initial concept (storyline)

. Historical/Locations

In relation to the first five minutes of the game, not much is explained in content due to the fact that it is all just cut-scenes, predominantly. However, the main part of codes and conventions is what people expect, what people are comfortable with. Assassins Creed III is the best example of this, as it has had three pre-deceasing games before hand. So players and avid fans of the trilogy know what to expect when it comes down to playing this game. This one of the game’s best selling factors, the fact that people have been so excited for it’s release because they know what to expect, and the fact that it is a new game with updated content, it adds to the old games and makes it better.

The relation to the topics that I have suggested above are all the little things that gamers of Assassins Creed expect from a new game; as the games are known for the fighting techniques used, the park our and climbing and, of course, the Assassinations and History. Assassins Creed would not be Assassins Creed without those things.

Historical Context

Assassins creed is practically one huge history book when it comes to historical context. The whole facto of Assassins Creed; it’s soul purpose is all to do with history and time.

In relation to the first five minutes of this game, the Historical Context is very relevant. Previously, i discussed of the setting that the animus takes place in this instalment of Assassins Creed; the introduction showed that in the past two games, Desmond was Altair, the most famous Assassin within the order; Altair was the main character in the first game. The first game was based in Syria, in 1191.AD. Back then, there were many religions and views that would be shamed upon today were respected and upheld. But in relation back onto the first five minutes, the Knowledge from Altair was passed down onto Desmond; as so stated in the third-to-fourth minute of the game. Though this is a little detail, it proves a lot for historical context; as this was the first historical place that Assassins Creed was shown to be in.

Secondly, Desmond possessed his skills from his second Ancestor; and preferably one of the most loved, Ezio Auditore Da Firenze. Ezio was in the renaissance, the game was based around 1486, Venice Italy. This strode out to be the most historical in my opinion, as not only was the renaissance a heavy theme within the second game, but characters like Leonardo Di Vinci roamed the streets. This, again is no surprise to Assassins Creed, as famous faces have already made appearances in the other off-side games. And proves to do so later on in the third game.

However, looking back to the five minutes I reported on; the only historical context that seems to stand out to me is the talk of the Ancient Civilisation. That, it’s self-screams History. And these characters are what the whole ideology of Assassins creed is based off. Again, I have previously mentioned who the Ancient Civilisation is; the powerful beings who created the artefacts; the pieces of Eden. The whole plot of the games are that if the Templars get these artefacts, they would ultimately, become Tyrants of the entire world.

The artefacts themselves are interesting to look at as historical contexts because they are based from the story “The Garden of Eden” known by most as “Pandora’s box” or how the world was created, the story of Adam and Eve. The “Apple” or the main artefact within the game is shown in the first five minutes, and is explained to have unstoppable power; it also has the power to unlock things, and is technically the key to saving the world. This is subtly, again how Assassins Creed is similar to reality; in crossing our religions and beliefs into their world. A concept easy to understand, yet if you delve deeper into this fact, there are many ethical questions that come to mind.

In relation to other products, Assassins Creed is unlike any game I have known, not just because of it’s unique play style, but because of such a rich historical

context, with ideas similar to our own. I don’t know of any other games that use such a large expanse of times over such a complex background story.

Narrative(closed, open, linear, non-linear, enigma, climax)

Closed/Open The narrative within Assassins Creed is a mixture of a lot of components. I am commenting on the first five minutes only, meaning that it is not a closed narrative; as there is obviously no ending. This leads to the narrative being open for this section; as it would prove to be a pretty boring story if it closed in the first five minutes. However, they obviously have to leave the narrative open, as so to keep the interest going, leaving room for speculation and an oppositional reading, at this point, as to where the story will go.

Linear/None-linear

Assassins Creed is a mixture of both Linear and None-Linear. It is none-linear in the fact that the game seems to jump across time, with a small sense of direction. This is portrayed easily in the first five minutes; especially explaining how Desmond obtained his skills from both Ancestors. However, I believe that the entire storyline of Assassins Creed is ultimately linear; as it has a start, beginning and end.

However, in relation to the first five minutes, it none linear; though it has a start and a middle, there is clearly no end as it is the first five minutes. However, again I can comment on the short introduction at the very start, which was a small “movie” of sorts, introducing the plot for the game. It, to me, felt like a small movie. It had a start, a beginning, middle and end. And for that reason; part of the five minutes I reviewed was linear. This is why there is no clear conclusion as to which side this game sits on; for the first five minutes.

Enigma

Enigma’s are questions left posed in the audience’s head from initial pieces of media. I personally believe that within Assassins creed; this is a vital point. Especially in the first five minutes. Looking back into the detail as to which I have broken down and discussed the scenes; there is clearly a lot of detail and backstory there; without even touching the surface. From the initial glances; questions already form in my own head; taking an oppositional view. (Pretending that I do not know what is going to happen. ) It has left me with thinking questions like: How is Desmond going to save the world? What is going to happen next? And more importantly, what is going to happen now?

These are key questions that need to be almost influenced into the consumer’s brain, regardless of how deep or shallow they think into it. And in some ways, this is related to the hypodermic needle theory, with subjecting the audience to one idea, or in this case, one question: What is going to happen next? This question ensures that the viewers are captured by the game, to keep on playing. Without a dramatic start, or a good, well-plotted start; it is hard for gamers to keep the interest with a slow-moving game.

Representation (presence and absence of social groups)

StereotypesStereotypes is something I have already touched upon, and is something I think that heavily influences the pre-conceived ideas leading up to this game’s release. However, basing it on the fact that I am looking at the first five minutes of the game as if I have never played the game before; I believe that stereotype is not a factor present if you haven’t played any of the previous games before, you practically walk blind into a world with a lot of backstory.

However, if you already have played a few of the game’s leading up to this particular game. It is then that the stereotype of Assassins Creed comes into play. You would expect a certain theme; to assassinate a particular target, a main character and a few famous/historical faces to come into view. Most importantly, the struggle against the Templars to be the main factor within any Assassins Creed game. Even by looking at this game; you have a feel and a pre-conceived idea of what is going to happen regarding the storyline. However, as for the actual game play; it is something you won’t experience until you are thrown into the game itself.

However, not many stereotypes are associated with Assassins Creed, apart from the expectation for climbing, assassinating and famous points in history to be explored and for this reason, I don’t believe many stereotypes, if at all in this game; it is more about the expectation, the pre-conceived ideas.

Social Groups (Presence and Absence)

My understanding of Social Groups are groups within a society that are similar, that co-exist together.

Stereotypically, Social Groups and Stereotypes have a close-linked bond within any media. Usually, our own stereotypes are formed upon Social groups; for example an expectation of the British “Chav” to have a cockney—or Southern London Accent, or an Irish people to be ginger. These are harsh stereotypes that we usually associate with Social Groups, and this is the same within Assassins Creed-though it is more subtle, and not in the way we expect.

The Ancient civilisation is a Social Group especially presented within this game; as I have previously mentioned in my explanation of the scenes above. The Ancient Civilisation is a Social Group perceived in the game as a “higher” or more “intelligent” race, with powers to create technology humans could only dream of. This idea in itself—a higher race than our own can cause many moral issues, especially linking into religion; as many of us have our own perceived idea of a God; and to have a “godly” race in Assassins Creed, it does cause many ethical questions that may, or may not upset those heavily influenced by religion. But this also suggests a Hierarchy forming already, within the game; being the Ancient Civilisation at the top, then the evil Templars, the Order—or the Assassins, then humans at the bottom. Again, this also suggests an ethical divide; one present to real day; as we are ultimately ruled by people—organisations perceived to be higher than ourselves. And this ultimately, reflects upon who we are as a society today. Something subtle, yet equally as clever.

Secondly, the Templars and The Order; two social groups and the main protagonists within the game. Both groups are explained in fine detail in the first five minutes of the game; this makes up a lot of the content, and is essentially the story of Assassins Creed; the struggle and battle between these two social groups that has been going on through decades and decades, all in order to get power. This is something, again relating to our society; if you look at our political groups. They have the same issue; struggling to gain power, though not in a violent way. Though this could be a reflection of our politicians, as in our past; it has often lead to violent out-breaks; for example when Kings and Queens ruled the country and not the Prime Minister, Civil wars would break out due to power struggles; this is reflected within Assassins Creed very well, as fans of the game know that with each game made; it focuses on a time that is influential with politics and wars. From the Renaissance right up to the English invasion of America. History, like I have explained before; is a major factor here. But also Hierarchy being an issue, like I have explained; this often also leads to Social Groups fighting and having power struggles.

Finally, humans. The “lesser” or “victims” within this game. The Humans are a Social Group that are split and portrayed within many different ways. You have the regular folk; ordinary people—civilians. These people are simply AI (Artificial Intelligence) to hinder and both help the character that is played. Humans are associated with the Order and Templars, as they are ultimately humans, however they are often viewed as the lesser beings; again relating back to the Hierarchy I have mentioned before. Another part of this social group is public figures; people like George Washington and Lonardo Di Vinchi play as a gimmick, or a subtle hint and suggestions to the times. Sometimes they are intractable with, other times; not. However they have some importance to a social group; as they are viewed as “celebrities” beings higher than ourselves. This again relates to ourselves as we have celebrities and ultimately view them as higher, more valuable beings than our actual selves.

Finally, the realistic social groups play a part within Assassins creed; though they are not directly mentioned within the first five minutes, players of the game would have already come across religious Social Groups in the past. This,

ultimately is the reason to our stereotypes of what the game will be; as religion heavily influenced the first two games. Adding a new kind of pressure on the game makers and players alike. Religious social groups are not directly shown within the first five minutes. Making this hard to comment on, however; in the order of the Hierarchy I have mentioned; they are classed at the bottom. This idea is given off within the game, though it is very subtle; the play would have to read more into the history of the game to have this idea.

To conclude, I have, in much detail touched upon the Analysis of Assassins Creed III. This game is full of back-story, a rich history and many ethical and moral considerations. You do not have to be a player of the trilogy to know this; as you can see the first five minutes is full of little and subtle hints that I have been able to pull out. This, in itself makes it a very interesting game to follow. And an excellent choice to analyse.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cppwdn61zW4

[Found: 25th of September, 2015][Author: FusionCap, Youtuber]

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assassin%27s_Creed_III

[Found 1st October, 2015][Author: Wikipedia, this is only for the dates of releases on consoles.]

http://homeworktips.about.com/od/historyhomework/p/historicalcontext.htm

[Found 1st October, 2015][Author: Grace Fleming]