Embark on an epic journey through Renaissance Italy with our comprehensive Assassin’s Creed II Walkthrough! Whether you’re a seasoned assassin or a newcomer to the series, this guide is your ultimate resource for mastering every aspect of the game. Dive in as we cover everything from Starting Your Adventure, navigating the rich historical tapestry of Key Locations and Challenges, to honing your skills with Using Abilities and Weapons Effectively. Learn foolproof Strategies for Assassinations and discover the secrets to Unlocking All Upgrades. Ready to become the ultimate Assassin? Let’s get started!

Starting Your Adventure#

Welcome to the Renaissance! You’re about to dive into one of the most beloved entries in the Assassin’s Creed series. Set in the vibrant and stunning landscapes of Italy, Assassin’s Creed II offers a captivating blend of historical intrigue and thrilling parkour. Let’s get you ready to embark on Ezio’s unforgettable journey.

1. Meet Ezio Auditore#

Ezio Auditore da Firenze is not your typical hero. He’s gallant, mischievous, and full of life. You’ll start by experiencing his youth, so get ready for some playful brawls, sneaky rooftop runs, and charming encounters. This introductory phase sets the tone for Ezio’s transformation from a carefree nobleman to a master assassin.

Your initial objective is to get familiar with the basic controls and the city layout. The game eases you into the mechanics with simple tasks like:

• Climbing buildings
• Collection tasks (like gathering feathers for Ezio’s younger brother, Petruccio)

Remember to take your time during these early missions. There’s no rush, and it’s a perfect opportunity to soak in the beautiful scenery.

2. Learn the Basics#

The controls in Assassin’s Creed II are intuitive, but there’s still a bit of a learning curve. Here’s a quick rundown to get you started:

• Movement: Use the left stick to move Ezio around. The right stick is for rotating the camera.
• Free Running: Hold down the right trigger (RT/R2) and the A (Xbox) / X (PlayStation) button to run and climb.
• Combat: For attacking, use the X (Xbox) / Square (PlayStation) button. The B (Xbox) / Circle (PlayStation) button is for grabbing or countering when the timing is right.
• Stealth: Holding the left trigger (LT/L2) enables you to enter a low profile state, which is essential for blending in and avoiding suspicion.

Don’t worry if it feels overwhelming at first. Practice makes perfect, and soon you’ll be leaping from rooftops and taking down guards like a pro.

3. Understand Your World#

Assassin’s Creed II is rich with historical detail. As you explore Florence, Venice, and other locations, take time to interact with NPCs and complete side missions. These tasks not only reward you with in-game currency but also deepen your understanding of the story and the world.

• Codex Pages: Collect these scattered throughout the world. They are crucial for upgrading Ezio’s skills and weapons.
• Art Treasures: Buy and collect artwork to decorate your Villa, which offers additional income over time.
• Feathers: Collecting these unlocks special items and achievements.

Exploring these side missions helps you gain extra rewards and immerse yourself in the rich culture and atmosphere of Renaissance Italy.

4. Upgrade and Customize#

Early in the game, you’ll gain access to Monteriggioni, a family Villa that serves as a base of operations. Here, you can upgrade various aspects:

• Weapons and Armor: Visit the blacksmith to purchase and upgrade your gear.
• Medicines and Supplies: Stock up at the local doctor to keep Ezio in fighting shape.
• Art and Renovations: Enhance the Villa’s value by purchasing art and making improvements.

Taking care of these upgrades not only makes Ezio more powerful but also increases the economic gains from Monteriggioni, giving you more funds to spend on essential upgrades.

5. Synchronize and Set Your Map#

One of the critical activities in Assassin’s Creed II is synchronization. Climb to the top of high points to reveal more of your map and gain fast travel points. These vantage points are marked by eagle icons and usually provide stunning views of the city.

• Synchronization Points: Climb tall buildings and structures to synchronize.
• Fast Travel: Use these points to travel quickly between different locations, saving you time on your journey.

Revealing the map helps you navigate more efficiently and spot essential activities and collectibles in the city.

Now that you’re equipped with these basics, it’s time to spread your wings (or, in Ezio’s case, your hidden blades) and leap into your adventure. Embrace your heritage, hone your skills, and prepare for the conspiracy that awaits. Buona fortuna, Assassin!

Key Locations and Challenges#

Assassin’s Creed II is set in the beautiful and dangerous world of Renaissance Italy. As you navigate through cities like Florence, Venice, and Monteriggioni, you’ll face various challenges that test your skills and push the story forward. Here’s a breakdown of some key locations and the challenges you’ll encounter in each.

Florence#

Florence is where your adventure begins. This bustling city is full of life and history. Here are some challenges you’ll face:

Key Challenge: Climbing the Duomo#

• Objective: Reach the top of the Duomo, the largest church in Florence.
• Tips: Use Eagle Vision to spot handholds. It’s a high climb, so be patient and look for ledges to rest on if you lose your grip.

Key Challenge: Assassination Contracts#

• Objective: Take down various targets around the city.
• Tips: Use rooftops to stay out of sight. Plan your escape route before making the kill. Disguises and blending with crowds can make your job easier.

Venice#

Venice, with its canals and sturdy buildings, offers unique challenges and opportunities for exploration.

Key Challenge: Navigating Canals#

• Objective: Use boats to traverse canals and reach your objectives quicker.
• Tips: Sometimes swimming is faster, but watch out for guards. Boats can be tricky to control, so practice steering them in open water before trying narrow canals.

Key Challenge: The Rialto Market#

• Objective: Complete missions and side quests while navigating the busy market.
• Tips: Stay above ground using rooftops to bypass guards. Blend in with crowds and use the market stalls for cover to avoid detection.

Monteriggioni#

Monteriggioni serves as your home base and safe haven. It’s crucial for upgrading your gear and training.

Key Challenge: Villa Renovations#

• Objective: Invest in the villa to unlock new gear and increase your income.
• Tips: Focus on upgrading the blacksmith and doctor first for better equipment and health supplies. Upgrading shops provides discounts and better items.

Key Challenge: Auditore Tomb#

• Objective: Find and explore the hidden tombs to retrieve special Assassin seals.
• Tips: Use your parkour skills to navigate through traps and puzzles. These tombs have hidden paths, so always look up and around for clues.

Tuscany/San Gimignano#

This countryside region offers more open spaces and different kinds of challenges.

Key Challenge: Courtesan Escorts#

• Objective: Escort courtesans through unsafe areas without drawing attention.
• Tips: Use the courtesans’ ability to distract guards. Move quickly and stay in the shadows to avoid confrontation.

Key Challenge: Intercepting Messengers#

• Objective: Catch and tackle messenger targets before they reach their destinations.
• Tips: Use your horse for quick travel. Timing is key – anticipate the messenger’s path and plan your ambush.

Forli#

Forli is a smaller, fortified town with a critical role in the story.

Key Challenge: Protecting the Citizens#

• Objective: Repel attacks from enemy forces to protect the town’s inhabitants.
• Tips: Use the high walls to your advantage. Archers can be a threat, so take them out first. Use smoke bombs to disperse larger groups of enemies.

Key Challenge: Sigonella’s Tower#

• Objective: Climb and synchronize at the top of Sigonella’s Tower.
• Tips: Watch for hostile guards along the way. Take your time to find safe handholds. Synchronizing will reveal more of the map, making future travel easier.

Conclusion#

Navigating through these key locations requires a mix of combat, stealth, and climbing skills. Each city and region offers unique challenges that will test your abilities as an Assassin. Keep upgrading your equipment and skills to master the art of stealth and become the legendary Ezio Auditore.

By understanding the challenges in each location, you’ll be better prepared for the obstacles ahead. Whether it’s climbing the tallest buildings in Florence or sneaking through the bustling markets of Venice, use this guide to strategize and ensure your adventure through Renaissance Italy is seamless and successful. Good luck, Assassin!

Using Abilities and Weapons Effectively#

In Assassin’s Creed II, mastering your abilities and weapons can give you the edge to take on any challenge in Renaissance Italy. Let’s dive into how you can turn Ezio Auditore into an unstoppable force!

Getting to Know Your Arsenal#

Early in the game, you’ll start with just a hidden blade and a sword, but as you progress, you’ll unlock a variety of weapons and tools. Here’s the breakdown:

• Hidden Blades: Signature assassin tools, perfect for stealthy takedowns.
• Swords: Balanced weapons for open combat.
• Daggers: Faster but less powerful than swords.
• Heavy Weapons: Deal massive damage but are slower and harder to use.
• Throwing Knives: Great for taking out enemies from a distance.
• Smoke Bombs: Useful for escaping tricky situations or disorienting multiple foes.

Understanding when and how to use each weapon can make your life a lot easier.

Mastering Your Abilities#

In addition to weapons, Ezio has several abilities that can turn the tide in your favor.

Eagle Vision#

This ability lets you see important targets and objects highlighted, even through walls. Use Eagle Vision to plan your moves, spot enemies, and locate hidden items. Always have a scan before entering a new area.

Stealth#

Your ability to remain unseen is crucial. Use hiding spots like haystacks, wells, and rooftop gardens to avoid detection. Blend in with crowds or benches when guards are on the lookout. Always look for alternative paths to avoid unnecessary fights.

Parkour#

Ezio is a master free-runner. Use parkour to navigate the city quickly and escape from enemies. Remember to look for ledges, ladders, and beams to stay above ground where guards have a harder time catching you.

Combat Tactics#

Counter Kills#

Timing is everything. Wait for an enemy to attack, then press the counter button just before the strike lands to perform an instant kill. This move is especially useful against tougher enemies.

Disarming Enemies#

When facing heavily armed foes, disarming them can turn the tide. Wait for their attack, then press the appropriate button to take their weapon and leave them vulnerable.

Use Your Environment#

Look for opportunities to use the environment to your advantage. Push enemies into walls or off ledges, or use hanging objects for lethal takedowns.

Efficiently Using Tools#

Tools like smoke bombs and throwing knives can save your life. Here’s how:

Smoke Bombs#

When you’re outnumbered or need to escape, drop a smoke bomb to stun enemies. You can then flee or use the confusion to perform quick kills.

Throwing Knives#

These are ideal for silent, distant kills. Use them to take out archers or isolated guards without drawing attention to yourself. Always keep a few handy for emergencies.

Upgrading and Customizing#

Don’t forget to upgrade your equipment. Visit blacksmiths to improve your weapons and armor, making you stronger in battle. Monteriggioni’s Hideout is a perfect place to manage your gear and collect earnings.

Armor#

Better armor means you can take more hits, which is essential when dealing with large groups or powerful enemies. Consistently update your armor for better defense.

Weapons#

Experiment with different weapon types and styles to find what works best for you. While swords are reliable, you might find heavy weapons to be more your style once you get the hang of their timing and power.

Blending it All Together#

The key to being effective with your abilities and weapons in Assassin’s Creed II is knowing when to use each one. Assess each situation:

• Are you outnumbered? Use smoke bombs.
• Need to eliminate a target quietly? Opt for the hidden blade or throwing knives.
• Facing a heavily armed opponent? Try disarming them.
• Trying to escape? Use your parkour skills and blending techniques.

Practice makes perfect. The more you experiment with Ezio’s tools and techniques, the more intuitive they’ll become. Keep at it, and soon you’ll be assassinating with finesse and ease!

By mastering these strategies, you’ll ensure that Ezio is prepared for any challenge that comes his way. Remember, observation and adaptability are your greatest assets in becoming the legendary assassin the world will remember.

Strategies for Assassinations#

In Assassin’s Creed II, pulling off a successful assassination can be both thrilling and crucial for progressing through the story. Here, we’re breaking down some key strategies to help you take out your targets efficiently and stylishly.

1. Blend In with Crowds#

One of the hallmarks of an adept assassin is staying invisible in plain sight. Use groups of people, benches, or nearby walls to seamlessly blend in with your surroundings. When you’re close to a target, moving unnoticed can be the difference between a swift kill and a chaotic chase.

• Pro Tip: Walk slowly and avoid running, as speeding up can attract unwanted attention from guards.

2. Use Eagle Vision Wisely#

Eagle Vision is your best friend when it comes to planning an assassination. This ability lets you highlight key targets and potential threats. Use it to mark guards, identify hiding spots, and map out your escape route before making your move.

• Pro Tip: Activate Eagle Vision from a high vantage point to get a comprehensive view of your surroundings and spot targets easier.

3. Master the Art of the Hidden Blade#

The Hidden Blade is Ezio’s signature weapon and the best tool for a quick, silent kill. Get comfortable with this weapon, and make sure you’re proficient in both its single and double-blade forms. Perfecting your timing and aim with the Hidden Blade will turn you into a ghost that strikes before anyone knows you’re there.

4. Create Diversions#

Sometimes, the best way to reach your target is by creating a distraction. Use coins to draw crowds or hurl them at guards to divert their attention. Smoke bombs are also a handy tool to disorientate enemies and make your escape.

• Pro Tip: Combining a distraction with parkour maneuvers can create the perfect opening for an attack or a quick getaway.

5. Parkour to Your Advantage#

One of the coolest aspects of Assassin’s Creed II is the fluid parkour system. Use rooftops, walls, and other structures to bypass guards and get the drop on your target. The high ground gives you a strategic advantage and helps you avoid direct confrontations.

6. Hire Allies#

Mercenaries, courtesans, and thieves are more than just background characters; they’ll help you pull off the perfect hit.

• Mercenaries can engage guards, drawing their attention away from you.
• Courtesans can distract guards with their charms, letting you slip by unnoticed.
• Thieves can steal from and incapacitate guards, clearing your path.

Utilize these allies to gain the upper hand and reach your target without unnecessary brawls.

7. Don’t Underestimate the Environment#

Your surroundings can play a big role in your strategy. Whether it’s hiding behind a market stall, climbing a tower to launch an aerial assassination, or using water canals for a sneaky approach, understanding how to use the environment is key to your success.

8. Plan Your Escape Route#

Getting to the target is only half the battle. After the assassination, guards will be on high alert. Make sure you scout out an escape route beforehand. This could be a series of rooftops, a crowd to blend into, or an alleyway leading to a hiding spot.

By familiarizing yourself with these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a master assassin in Assassin’s Creed II. Remember, each assassination is unique, so adapt and think on your feet to ensure success. Happy hunting!

Unlocking All Upgrades in Assassin’s Creed II#

Unlocking all the upgrades in Assassin’s Creed II is crucial to Ezio’s journey. Not only do they make Ezio more formidable, but they also enhance gameplay. Here’s a breakdown of how to get each upgrade and what they do for you.

1. Hidden Blade Upgrades#

Double Hidden Blade - After completing Sequence 4, you’ll meet Leonardo da Vinci again. He will upgrade Ezio’s single hidden blade to a double hidden blade, allowing you to perform double assassinations.

Poison Blade - Also received from Leonardo in Sequence 5 after finding Codex pages. The Poison Blade lets you quietly poison enemies, causing chaos without immediate detection.

Upgraded Hidden Blade - Makes assassinations easier by giving you a longer reach. This is automatically upgraded as you play through the main story.

2. Armor Sets#

Ezio can wear different types of armor which increase health and damage resistance. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Leather Armor - Earned early in the game. You can purchase this from Blacksmiths in Monteriggioni.
• Metal Armor - Becomes available for purchase after progressing further in the storyline.
• Helmschmied Armor - This mid-tier armor is more durable and also available at Blacksmiths.
• Missaglias Armor - Offers even better protection and can be bought as you advance.
• Armor of Altair - The ultimate armor which you unlock by solving all of the six Assassin Tombs puzzles found in various locations marked on your map. Collect all six seals and place them in the Sanctuary beneath the Villa to get your prize.

3. Weaponry#

You can buy a variety of weapons, each more powerful than the last. Here are some you’ll come across:

• Swords and Knives - Available in increasingly powerful variants as you visit Blacksmiths. Different cities offer different levels.
• Crossbow - While not an option in AC II, you do get throwing knives and a pistol later on.
• Hidden Gun - Unlocked during Sequence 6 after another meeting with Leonardo. The gun allows for stealthy long-range kills but takes a while to reload.

4. Money and Economy#

You’ll need florins (the game’s currency) for most upgrades. Here’s how to earn and maximize your earnings:

• Loot Bodies - Always loot the enemies you take down for extra cash.
• Chests - Hidden in various parts of each city. Synchronize viewpoints to reveal chest locations on your map.
• Codex Pages - Bring these to Leonardo for decrypting. These pages give you money and sometimes upgrades.
• Monteriggioni Villa - Upgrading the Villa increases the town’s income. Focus on restoring buildings and buying city upgrades to generate florins over time.

5. Skills#

As you progress, you’ll learn new skills:

• Climbing Leap - Taught by Rosa in Venice during Sequence 8. This skill allows you to scale taller buildings quicker.
• Sweeping - Allows you to knock enemies off their feet and tops up your arsenal in combat.

6. Paintings and Outfits#

Buying paintings for Monteriggioni doesn’t just upgrade aesthetics but generates income and increases your notoriety.

• Outfits - New clothing styles are cosmetic but stylish. They are available from Tailors and won’t affect your health or combat skills.

7. Health Upgrades#

Health upgrades are incremental but significant in prolonged combat. These can be increased by purchasing Codex pages, synchronizing viewpoints, and acquiring powerful armor sets.

Conclusion#

Spend your florins wisely and always keep an eye out for city upgrades. With the right arsenal and armor, you’ll make Ezio Auditore da Firenze an unstoppable force in Renaissance Italy. Happy assassinating!