The Renaissance through the eyes of an assassin...

Returning to their newest franchise, Ubisoft pulled out all the stops in recreating Renaissance Italy for Assassin's Creed 2. While one might think 'Hey Chad, why are you writing about a video-game on your art blog?', I can assure this game is chockful of art. From being able to purchase the most prominent paintings of the time period (1486 and prior), to palling around with Leonardo Divinci as he uses his designs and artistic talent to create new weapons for you and solve intense riddles. When not busily putting the kibash on the plans of the murderous Templars (the games secret society villians) you can actually explore the architecture of some of Italy's most amazing landmarks and buildings. A codex is constantly updated year by year throughout the game's time-line, relating to you new information about not only the most famous historical events of the period but also the art, philosophy, and architecture. Also not to mention, the game is beautiful. From its smooth animations and character design, to its amazing landscapes, Assassin's Creed 2 captures Renaissance Italy in a breathtaking manner. As an added plus every character in the game is steeped in actual history, from the Sforza's in Forli, all the way to Rodrigo Borgia, who would later rule as the tyrannical Pope Alexander the VI. Anyone who is interested in video games and art would do themselves a grave disservice missing this amazing piece of work.