It was only with Ezio’s exploits that a protagonist’s love or marital life has entered into Assassin’s Creed plot lines in any significant way. Assassin’s Creed IV may be taking that one step further, as the lead scriptwriter reveals that the main character’s struggle to stay faithful is set to be one of his central conflicts.
“Edward Kenway is a raucous and bawdy chap, but he’s also a married man, and one of his primary motivations in Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag is to get rich and prove himself a ‘man of quality’ to his family and betters. So there is a special woman in Edward’s life, but there are also other not-so-special women as well.”
Edward Kenway’s Complex Character
Edward Kenway, the protagonist of Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, is a character of many layers. Unlike previous protagonists, Edward’s personal life and relationships play a significant role in the narrative. His journey is not just about the typical Assassin’s Creed themes of freedom and justice but also about personal redemption and the complexities of human relationships. Edward’s struggle to stay faithful to his wife while being surrounded by temptations adds a rich layer of depth to his character. This internal conflict makes him more relatable and human, as he grapples with his desires and responsibilities.
Edward’s motivations are deeply rooted in his desire to prove himself. Coming from a humble background, he is driven by the need to gain wealth and status, not just for himself but to earn the respect of his family and society. This ambition often puts him at odds with his moral compass, leading to a fascinating exploration of his character’s duality.
The Role of Relationships in Assassin’s Creed IV
The inclusion of Edward’s marital life in the storyline marks a significant shift in the Assassin’s Creed series. Previous games have touched upon the personal lives of their protagonists, but none have delved as deeply into the complexities of relationships as Assassin’s Creed IV. This focus on Edward’s love life and his struggle with fidelity adds a new dimension to the game’s narrative.
Edward’s relationship with his wife is central to his character development. It serves as both a motivation and a source of conflict. His desire to prove himself to his wife and family drives many of his actions, but his inability to remain faithful creates internal and external conflicts. This dynamic adds a layer of realism to the game, making Edward’s journey more compelling and relatable.
Moreover, the game does not shy away from portraying the consequences of Edward’s actions. His infidelities and the resulting guilt and repentance are explored in depth, providing a nuanced portrayal of his character. This focus on personal relationships and their impact on the protagonist’s journey sets Assassin’s Creed IV apart from its predecessors.
In addition to his wife, Edward’s interactions with other women in the game further complicate his character. These relationships are not just superficial but are integral to the storyline, influencing Edward’s decisions and the game’s outcome. The portrayal of these relationships is handled with a level of maturity and complexity that adds depth to the narrative.
In conclusion, Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag takes the series in a new direction by focusing on the personal life and relationships of its protagonist, Edward Kenway. His struggle to stay faithful and his desire to prove himself add a rich layer of depth to the game’s narrative. This focus on personal relationships and their impact on the protagonist’s journey sets Assassin’s Creed IV apart from its predecessors, making it a standout entry in the series.
Source Polygon
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