**Assassin's Creed Mirage Review**
Assassin's Creed Mirage is a disappointingly underwhelming addition to the iconic series. Despite the anticipation following the events of Valhalla, Mirage fails to meet expectations on multiple fronts.
Firstly, the game feels like a step back in time, reminiscent of Assassin's Creed 1 or 2, with only marginally better graphics and a slightly improved user interface. This regression is a significant letdown, especially for those who have experienced the advancements in gameplay and narrative seen in Origins, Odyssey, and Valhalla.
The story in Mirage is notably slow-paced, making it difficult to stay engaged. The character of Basim, who was expected to bring depth and intrigue, unfortunately, falls flat. There's a lack of relatability and connection, which is crucial for a protagonist in a game of this nature.
The game's design also leaves much to be desired. The map feels overly congested, and the areas are cramped, detracting from the immersive experience fans have come to love. The focus on parkour is excessive, and the mechanics are not as intuitive or enjoyable as in previous installments.
Despite the return of throwing knives, a fan-favorite feature, the overall execution is lackluster. The game fails to capture the essence and excitement that characterized entries like Assassin's Creed Brotherhood, with its dual hidden blades, hidden gun, poison darts, and, of course, the throwing knives.
In summary, Assassin's Creed Mirage is not a worthy successor to its predecessors. It doesn't justify the investment, and fans of the series would be better off purchasing DLCs for Odyssey or Valhalla. The deluxe package, in particular, feels like a waste of money, as the game does not deliver the captivating experience that the series is known for. Save your money and avoid the disappointment.