Not all stories start with a beginning, middle, and end. Writers and storytellers will often use the middle as a starting point while transitioning back to the beginning to give the reader context. Only a handful of times will that story structure work but more often than not, the payoff isn’t satisfying. Assassin’s Creed: Conspiracies #1 subverts those expectations and more as you delve into a world on the brink of nuclear war.
Death From Above
First, let me start by saying that the opening sequence of panels for this issue sets the tone and it’s magnificent. The story starts with an Assassin performing a parachute jump into a secret facility that doubles as a hydroelectric damn. Jean-Baptiste Hostache’s artwork is slick and clean but also filled with a certain coldness that helps amplify the stealth action that any fan of Assassin’s Creed or espionage fan would love. The action is impressive and the stealth sequences perfectly convey the stakes of this story. It is almost reminiscent of the first scene in Captain America: The Winter Soldier in its execution and portrayal.
Uprising and Origins. It’s amazing how quickly Dorison establishes Mr. Gorm’s character and motivations within a couple of pages. Eddie Gorm is layered and the events that unfold in front of him not only tests his resolve but the lengths in which he’s willing to sacrifice.
The Mission
Eddie Gorm is a likable Assassin who comes from humble beginnings and is supported by an amazing crew of characters. Both the Nazis and Assassins offer Mr. Gorm a choice on who he will align himself with. His reluctance gives way to tragedy and that choice is ultimately taken from him. In many ways, Eddie Gorm is a victim of circumstance but his story is parallels that of young men taking arms during a time in which the world needed them most. However, it is also an endearing story of endurance and honor. Gorm is a great character and the pace of the story makes the best moments shine brighter as each key scene feels poignant.
Assassin’s Creed: Conspiracies starts off strong with an amazing pace, great artwork, perfect lettering by Amoona Saohin. This issue leaves the reader wanting more both to explore the world of Assassins and Templars during WW2 and to follow Eddie Gorm’s journey. I highly recommend you pick up this issue and hopefully, Guillaume Dorison and Jean-Baptiste Hostache can deliver a great mini-series; time will tell!
Review Summary
Assassin’s Creed: Conspiracies #1 is an amazing issue with a stellar story set in the world of Assassin’s Creed. You follow Eddie Gorm as he becomes an assassin during one of the most amazing but terrible wars known to mankind, WW2. How much will he have to sacrifice and endure to keep the world safe from the Templars with the support of The Third Reich? Follow along with this epic tale of love, loss, and duty with amazing artwork and action.
