Ezio Auditore da Firenze, the charismatic Renaissance assassin widely regarded as the face of the Assassins Creed franchise, is making an official comeback – not in a new video game, but through the recently launched Assassin’s Creed Animus board game. The officially licensed tabletop experience, now funding on Kickstarter through partner Mantic Games, has reached stretch goals that include the fan-favorite character alongside other iconic assassins from throughout the series’ history.
What Makes This Board Game Special
The Animus board game aims to translate the video game experience to tabletop format:
- Stealth & Combat Mechanics: Players navigate scenarios using stealth, combat, and strategy
- Character Variety: Includes Ezio, Evie, Aveline, Yasuke, and more from across the timeline
- High-Quality Miniatures: Detailed figures bring each character to life physically
- Ubisoft Collaboration: Officially licensed with authentic lore and settings
Why Ezio Still Matters
First appearing in 2009’s Assassin’s Creed II, Ezio became the series’ most beloved protagonist through:
- Character Development: Three-game story arc showing his entire life journey
- Charming Personality: Witty dialogue and relatable motivations
- Historical Settings: Renaissance Italy provided a rich backdrop
- Gameplay Refinement: His games perfected the classic AC formula
His inclusion signals recognition that even after 15+ years, he remains the standard by which other assassins are measured.
Kickstarter Success and Stretch Goals
The campaign has already achieved:
- Full Funding: Rapidly surpassed its initial goal
- Additional Characters: Unlocked Evie Frye (Syndicate), Aveline de Grandpré (Liberation), and Yasuke (feudal Japan)
- More Content: Additional missions, components, and scenarios added through stretch goals
The Bigger Picture: Assassin’s Creed’s Tabletop Expansion
This board game continues Ubisoft’s expansion beyond video games:
- Transmedia Strategy: Comics, novels, and now tabletop experiences
- Fan Service: Giving longtime supporters what they want (Ezio)
- Accessibility: Board games reach different audiences than video games
- Preservation: Keeping classic characters relevant in new formats
What Backers Can Expect
The Animus board game promises:
- Authentic Experience: Faithful translation of AC gameplay mechanics
- Quality Components: Detailed miniatures and premium board pieces
- Replayability: Multiple scenarios and character combinations
- Expansion Potential: Future add-ons likely given franchise depth
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Key Details
- Platform: Kickstarter (limited time backing)
- Creator: Mantic Games (official Ubisoft partner)
- Availability: Expected delivery to backers in 2026
- Content: Base game + unlocked stretch goals during campaign
For fans who’ve waited years for Ezio’s proper return, this board game offers a tangible connection to the character who defined the series’ golden age.