Assassin's Creed II is the second installment of the parkour-action series by Ubisoft. The game was released for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 in 2009, with the PC version coming out in March 2010.
The story of AC II, like the first game, is divided into two parts. In the first, we play as Desmond Miles, confronting the Templars in the near future. In the second part, which takes significantly more gameplay time, we play as Desmond's distant ancestor, the Italian aristocrat from the late 15th century, Ezio Auditore da Firenze.
Almost all of Ezio's family was killed as a result of a Templar conspiracy, and now his goal is revenge. The game's plot spans over twenty years, during which the hero will encounter not only fictional characters but also real historical figures like Leonardo da Vinci, Niccolò Machiavelli, Rodrigo Borgia, and others.
Throughout the game, players will explore meticulously recreated cities of Italy during that time – Florence, Venice, and Tuscany. The game world has shrunk slightly compared to the first installment but has become richer. The missions have also become more diverse.
The main element of gameplay, as before, is parkour. It has mostly remained unchanged since the first part, with all movements executed using three buttons, but new moves and new world elements have been introduced that Ezio can interact with in different ways. The combat system of the game has also not undergone significant changes – Ezio, like Altair from the first part, has two types of swords, throwing knives, and hidden blades, which he can use to attack, defend, and counterattack. Additionally, the main character of AC II possesses a poisoned blade and even a small pistol, and can disarm enemies. The variety of weapons and enemies has increased – in addition to swords, Ezio can use hammers, axes, spears, and halberds, and will face not only regular archers and guards but also armored 'brutes.'
The game also features a trading system. Players can earn money (florins) by completing missions (both main and side) or find them in scattered chests around the world. The money earned can be spent at a doctor (who heals, sells medicine and poison), a blacksmith (who repairs and sells armor and weapons), a tailor (who sells pouches for gear and can dye clothing), a painting seller (who sells paintings and treasure maps), or can be invested in refurbishing Ezio's family estate. Moreover, players can use this money to hire thieves, courtesans, or mercenaries to help the hero deal with enemies.
The collection element present in the first part of the game is represented here by gathering eagle feathers, Assassin's Codex pages, and Assassin seals. The game received very positive feedback from both casual players and critics. Its average score on Gamerankings.com is 86.87% (for the PC version). Shortly after the release of Assassin’s Creed II, Ubisoft announced the DLC AC II: Brotherhood, and shortly after its release – another DLC, AC II: Revelations.
The game was fully localized and released in Russia by Akella.