Few game characters have ever become quite so iconic as that of Ezio Auditore da Firenze from Assassin’s Creed II, which launched way back in 2009. His backstory is deep, his character development is probably one of the strongest in any game, and his role in the Assassin’s Creed series is beyond pivotal.
Moving into 2024, Ezio’s story remains relevant to both old and new fans alike. This article revisits his complete history, tending to mark his travel as a main protagonist in the Ezio Trilogy, the developing character, and ultimately his signature upon the wider world of Assassin’s Creed.
Assassin In The Making
Ezio Auditore was born in the year 1459 to a noble Florentine family in Florence, the capital of the Borgia. His father, Giovanni Auditore da Firenze, by trade, was a banker, although, in secret, he belonged to the Assassin Brotherhood. His childhood bore the hallmarks of a privileged family, and he was oblivious to the conflict between the Assassins and Templars.
Until 1476, his life took an abrupt turn for the worse when Ezio was 17 years old. This saw his father and brothers being falsely accused of treason through a corrupt Templar plot involving a public execution in Florence. The unjustified killing of his family members triggered Ezio’s transformation.
He felt the urge to avenge first, but later found his father’s well-concealed role as an Assassin and donned the mantle. Ezio was training with the help of the family friend Mario Auditore, beginning the path of revenge for killing his family. This is how his association with the Brotherhood and the greater fight against the Templars began.
Rise to Power: The Fall of the Borgia
Assassin’s Creed II, which came out in 2009, marked the core of Ezio Auditore’s story. He travels around Renaissance Italy, from Florence to Venice and Rome, searching for those guilty of killing his family. En route, he also uncovers the Templar conspiracy that imperils the whole of Europe, guided by the Borgia family.
During this time, Ezio Auditore’s character undergoes many changes. What began as a quest for personal revenge grew into a mission of justice to safeguard the ideals of the Assassin Brotherhood. Confronting numerous challenges, he faces corrupt political figures, among which is Rodrigo Borgia, Templar Grand Master. Later, in 1499, Ezio finally defeats Rodrigo and finds the Apple of Eden, an artifact left behind by the mysterious First Civilization.
Ezra’s discovery of the Apple ties him to a far greater, more intricate tale that involves not only Assassins and Templars but an entire race of precursors: the Isu. They are responsible for many of the artifacts that form the basis of conflict. Ezra finally accepts his destiny as a key figure in this millenary war.
Brotherhood Leadership
In Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood, which came out in 2010, Ezio Auditore becomes the Mentor of the Assassin Brotherhood. He is in Rome, where he wants to eliminate what is left of the powers of the Borgia family, especially Cesare Borgia, Rodrigo’s son. The Brotherhood, under his leadership, develops and prospers, while Ezio himself teaches recruits new tactics.
This part of his story focuses on Ezio Auditore’s development as a leader: from a lone assassin driven by personal grief to a mentor deeply responsible for his fellow Assassins. It will be this shift that finally integrates him into the larger mission of the Brotherhood to ensure the freedom of humanity from Templar control.
Brotherhood also explores with much depth the personal relationships that Ezio has. For example, his friendship with major historical figures such as Niccolò Machiavelli and Leonardo da Vinci deeply enriches his character, not only as a fierce predator but also as an intellectual and emotional human being.
Revelations of Ezio’s Journey
In Assassin’s Creed: Revelations, 2011, Ezio Auditore is an older man, worn down by years of conflict. He travels to Constantinople on the trail of Altaïr Ibn-La’Ahad, the protagonist of the original Assassin’s Creed. There, Ezio discovers the secrets of the legendary Mentor Altaïr and the origin of the Brotherhood, while continuing to fight the Templars.
This last chapter in Ezio Auditore’s life is one of introspection. Once in Constantinople, he starts to question his place in the grand scheme of the Assassin-Templar war and whether it will ever truly be over. Having learned the secrets of Altaïr’s library and with an enlightened understanding of the history of the Assassin Brotherhood, Ezio decides to retire. He leaves his life as an Assassin and decides to live quietly with his family in Italy.
It is the most touching moment of the whole series: Ezio personally tells Desmond Miles, the protagonist of the Assassin’s Creed games of early modern times, about the burden of the generational conflict that he hopes he’ll end. It concludes Ezio’s arc in many ways because, after years of turmoil, he has reached a point of peace and closure by finally removing himself from the fight.
The Legacy of Ezio
Even as Ezio Auditore’s story ended with Revelations, his influence on the Assassin’s Creed franchise runs deep. Ubisoft has revisited the character of Ezio rather frequently through various media, be it the Assassin’s Creed: Embers short film that depicts his final days or the Ezio Collection, a remastered version of his trilogy for modern consoles.
In 2024, Ezio Auditore is still the fan-favorite assassin in the series. His trilogy stands for one of the highest moments of this franchise regarding storytelling, mixing the lavished historical setting with character development of the highest class. The latest additions to the series still resonate with Ezio Auditore’s story, and his impact on the Brotherhood’s evolution is the focal point in Assassin’s Creed lore.
His journey, from being a carefree nobleman to Mentor of the Brotherhood, has been a template for franchise character arcs. It has set a benchmark in terms of personal and professional growth, shaping how Ubisoft constructs its protagonists since.
Conclusion
The history of Ezio Auditore in the case of Assassin’s Creed is one of growth, loss, and redemption. In 2024, it would seem that revisiting his story left an indelible mark on the franchise, as well as the fans. His path from revenge toward wisdom, from assassin to mentor, keeps on describing the spirit of the Assassin’s Creed series.
For More Great Content
Craving top-tier content that covers it all? From electrifying sports highlights and insider entertainment news to expert gaming tips and sharp betting advice, we’ve got you covered. Dive into our curated articles to stay ahead of the game with the latest sports action, uncover the hottest trends in entertainment, and get the lowdown on gaming strategies that could level up your play. Plus, our betting advice will sharpen your edge and boost your chances of winning big.
Whether you’re looking to stay updated or gain a competitive edge, our content is your go-to source for all things exciting and relevant. Don’t miss out—explore now and power up your knowledge! Follow us on Twitter/X @TotalApexSports, to stay informed.
