Issue #2 Review: Ezio Auditore da Firenze
By Colum Blackett
Issue #2 of Assassin's Creed: The Official Collection focusses on Ezio Auditore. (1459-1524)
Inside Issue #2.
- Ezio Auditore Figurine
- Character Profile.
- Friends and Enemies.
- Mythology.
- Environments
- Weapons & Equipment
Figurine Review
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I was extremely impressed with the Ezio Auditore figurine. The Robes are extremely detailed, and are an accurate replication of those worn in AC2 (and Lineage).
I was pleased to see that the figurine has the necklace that Ezio wears in Assassin's Creed II. This small detail will no doubt be appreciated by fans who examine their figurine closely enough.
Another detail that I noticed on the figurine was the scar on Ezio's lip. This is from Vieri de Pazzi throwing a stone at the start of AC2.
I particularly like the Assassin belt, as it holds many small details that can only really be seen under closer inspection.
Something to note: The promo images shown by Hachette of the Ezio figurine show him having a fingerless glove on his right hand. I can confirm that this has now been changed, and the Ezio figurine has a full glove covering his right hand! I'm pleased that Hachette managed to get this detail changed in time for launch.
The Ezio figurine will be an excellent addition to your Assassin's Creed Collection.
Magazine Review
We start issue #1 with an overview of the Ezio figurine, and background information on his journey to becoming an Assassin. The figurine is deconstructed, highlighting several of Ezio's iconic features, such as his scar and dual hidden blades. Each feature is then explained in detail, giving us information on how he gained each one.
The next section is a character profile, and gives us an in-depth look at how Ezio's life changed forever. Page 4 features early concept art of the young nobleman, hiding his hidden blade under his sleeve. Ezio's allies are all featured, and the role they each have to play in helping him on his road to becoming an Assassin. Paola, Leonardo, La Volve, and many other key characters are all featured in this section. Page 6 looks at Ezio's struggle with the Templars, and his quest for vengeance. The First Civilisation and the Apple of Eden are both featured here. I was particularly impressed to see that Pieces of Eden are explained, giving readers background on the mysterious artefacts. Page 7 looks at Minerva, and the Vatican vault. Ezio's decision to spare the life of Rodrigo Borgia would be a costly one. Deep within the vault, Ezio (The Prophet) meets the First Civilisation Entity known as Minerva. "You are the prophet. You have played your part". The Piece of Eden known as "The Papal Staff" is also discussed on this page. The next section is called "Friends and Enemies" and gives us a breakdown of several people from AC2, and their relationship with Ezio. Da Vinci, Machiavelli, Rodrigo Borgia and Marco Barbarigo can all be found here, each with an in depth paragraph. Pages 10 and 11 are titled "Mythology", and focuses on the search for the Apple of Eden. Ezio loses the Apple of Eden at the Battle of Forli after being wounded, and later has to search for it again. The Apple was picked up by a monk with a missing finger, named Girolamo Savonarolla, who uses it to rule the city of Florence. The Bonfire of the Vanities DLC plot is revealed in this section. The next section is titled "The environment", and looks at the different locations featured in Assassin's Creed II. Venice, Florence, Monteriggioni and The Vatican City are all displayed here, and the reasons why Ezio visited each location. Concept art of the different environments can also be found here. Pages 14 and 15 are titled "Weaponry and Equipment", and mainly focus on Leonardo's flying machine, that could be used by Ezio in AC2. The deciphering of Altair's Codex Pages are mentioned here, which could be used to upgrade weapons and tools. Several of Da Vinci's sketches and designs can be found in this section, showing how ahead of his time he really was. Issue #2 of The Official Collection provides a nostalgic breakdown of a must loved character, and his journey through life As this magazine only focusses on young Ezio (AC2), I believe that we may see two more issues focussing on the Mentor at different stages in his life. For fans of Assassin's Creed II, I highly recommend issue #2! Thanks for reading Stay Vigilant Assassins - Col |
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