WelcometoExtremeGamer

AC3

Intro
The white robes of the assassin's descend on the Wii U with their own tablet tapping edition of Assassin's Creed III.

Game
As an addition to our already reviewed “Assassin's Creed III” on the Xbox 360, we are taking a look at the fashionably late Wii U version. In basics, the Wii U edition is very much the same game with the adaption of the unique Wii U gamepad controller. Controller aside, the core game handles like an air assassination; smooth and ultra cool. If anyone has their doubts if the Wii U could keep up, it definitely can as Ubisofts' "Assassin's" puts the hardware to the test.

Instead of rehashing our musings on the entire game, please see our fully detailed review - (review link) - while we focus on what is new (or not new) for the Wii U. And for those who don't want to read here is an synopsis from our earlier review.

Assassin's Creed III - Xbox 360 - Review Lowdown
Finally stamping a number "3" at the end of the “Assassin's” name is a big deal with lofty expectations. On some levels Ubisoft has prevailed in meeting these expectations, however, by the same right, they didn't. “Assassin's Creed III” does stand-up against the rest of the “Assassin's” pack, although a few pacing issues and our familiarity with the series makes the impact a little less “explosive.” Although a little anomalous, “Assassin's Creed III” is still a must for fans of the series.

AC3

Assassinating Wii U style
The main variance among the other consoles' editions and the Wii U is the tablet controller. The tablet offers the ability to access information on the second screen, which is useful, but not taken full advantage of. The second screen support is mainly used as a mini-map when not flashing back-and-forth between what is happening on the main screen (your TV).

The mini-map is used to help point out objective markers, enemies, posters, and other assorted items. It's a great way quickly to see what is around you without jumping into the menu or trying to decipher the small mini-map which is located in the main screens left corner. Ubisoft could have been a little more detailed with the use, it would have been great to fool around with the Animus information in addition to the mini-map idea. The tablet shows how it can be a "game changer", but in this application, it isn't revolutionary by any means.

The visuals for both screens are tight and look superb. Sure, you could nitpick the exact quality among each console, but for what it is, it's does a fine damn job. Visual fiends you can be rest assured with any version of the game. On a side note: the Xbox 360 actually runs on two discs (one for single player and the other for multiplayer) and the Wii U and PS3 don't. So if you want to save yourself the time of changing discs, the Wii U and its one disc performance is a solid pick.

AC3

Lowdown
"Assassin's Creed III" is a great game, and now that you know the Wii U edition doesn't have any unforeseen “hiccups” you can feel confident in picking "Assassin's" up for any console. While the Wii U controller is a slight aid, it's not enough to sway you away from the other systems.

roundup
+
  • Wii U version performs just as good as the other two consoles.
  • While not groundbreaking, the second screen is a nice little bonus.
  • Game feels comfortable while being played with the default controller.
  • One disc, sorry Xbox 360 owners.
  • Coming in a little late to the party. Most Assassin fans have already tried it.
  • No overly huge bonus to picking the Wii U version over the others.
Quote: "Assassin's Creed III is a great game, and now that you know the Wii U edition doesn't have any unforeseen “hiccups” you can feel confident in picking "Assassin's" up for any console."
Reviewed by Downtown Jimmy | 11.27.12 | Platform Reviewed: Wii U

Similar Games: AC3: Liberation (6.3) | AC: Revelations (8.0) | Assassin's Creed (9.5) | Assassin's Creed II (9.8)

Boxart

Assassin's Creed III

Publisher
Ubisoft

Developer
Ubisoft Canada

Genre
Action

US Release
October '12

ESRB
"M"

Platform
Wii U, X360, PS3

Features
Players 1
Online MP 2-8
Co-op 2-4
5.1 Surround
HD 720-1080p
D/L Content
Leaderboards