Jacob and Evie Frye are two of the most iconic sibling protagonists in the Assassin’s Creed video game series. Introduced in Assassin’s Creed Syndicate, they brought a fresh dual-character dynamic to the franchise. Set in Victorian-era London, their story unfolds against the backdrop of industrial revolution, social upheaval, and secretive warfare between the Assassins and the Templars. With contrasting personalities and unique approaches to combat and stealth, Jacob and Evie offer players a rich and varied gameplay experience that also explores themes of family loyalty, ideology, and purpose.
Character Profiles and Background
Jacob Frye
Jacob Frye is the more impulsive and rebellious of the two twins. With a flair for violence and direct confrontation, Jacob thrives in combat scenarios and isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty. His goal is to take down the Templar influence in London by building a gang known as the Rooks. Jacob’s charisma, boldness, and penchant for action make him an ideal character for players who prefer an aggressive playstyle.
- Personality Traits: Brave, headstrong, sarcastic, bold.
- Combat Style: Melee-focused with strong use of brass knuckles and the cane-sword.
- Role in the Story: Focuses on liberating boroughs, defeating gang leaders, and establishing a visible resistance to Templar rule.
Evie Frye
Evie is the more methodical and strategic sibling. Unlike Jacob, she adheres more closely to the traditional Assassin creed, valuing stealth, intelligence, and secrecy. She is deeply focused on locating and protecting the powerful Piece of Eden hidden in London. Her calm demeanor and logical mind make her an excellent contrast to Jacob’s impulsive nature.
- Personality Traits: Intelligent, reserved, disciplined, stealthy.
- Combat Style: Stealth-oriented with a focus on throwing knives, quiet kills, and non-lethal tactics.
- Role in the Story: Investigates the mystical and historical aspects of the Assassin Order while pursuing the Templars’ secret plots.
The Dual Protagonist System
Gameplay Innovation
One of the most unique features of Assassin’s Creed Syndicate is the ability to switch between Jacob and Evie during most parts of the game. Each sibling has their own skill tree, missions, and strengths. This dual protagonist system allows players to tailor their approach based on preference and mission requirements, adding a strategic layer to the gameplay.
Character Balance
The game balances both characters’ strengths by providing different mission types suited to their abilities. Jacob’s missions often involve combat-heavy objectives, while Evie’s are more about infiltration and intelligence-gathering. This duality keeps the gameplay fresh and encourages experimentation with different tactics.
Setting: Victorian London
Historical Accuracy and Immersion
The world Jacob and Evie navigate is a detailed reconstruction of 1868 London, complete with landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the River Thames. The city is alive with the energy of the industrial revolution, and the divide between the wealthy elite and the struggling working class is palpable. This historical setting plays a vital role in shaping the Fryes’ motivations and the stakes of their mission.
Societal Challenges
London during this period is plagued with child labor, organized crime, and rampant corruption all of which are addressed through the Fryes’ missions. Their fight isn’t just against the Templars; it’s a battle to restore justice to a city where the powerful exploit the weak. By building their gang and liberating boroughs, they attempt to bring equality and balance to the society.
Major Antagonists and Allies
Crawford Starrick
The main antagonist, Crawford Starrick, is a powerful Templar who controls much of London’s infrastructure, from banks to transportation. He is cunning, manipulative, and represents the elite establishment the Fryes are working to dismantle. Both Jacob and Evie have personal stakes in defeating him, although they disagree on the method.
Allies in the Fight
Throughout the game, the Fryes form alliances with historical figures such as:
- Charles Dickens Helps uncover and expose societal injustice.
- Florence Nightingale Supports the medical and humanitarian side of the revolution.
- Karl Marx Offers ideological support and socialist viewpoints.
- Alexander Graham Bell Provides technological gadgets and upgrades for stealth and combat.
Sibling Dynamics
Contrasting Philosophies
One of the central narrative themes is the ideological clash between Jacob and Evie. Jacob believes in immediate action, fighting fire with fire, and liberating people directly. Evie, on the other hand, believes in subtlety, planning, and preserving the Assassins’ legacy. This difference often leads to conflict but also growth as both siblings learn from each other.
Emotional Core of the Story
Despite their disagreements, Jacob and Evie care deeply for each other. Their relationship gives the game emotional weight and grounding. Watching them evolve and find common ground adds depth to the overall storyline, showing that cooperation and compromise are key to achieving greater goals.
Legacy and Impact
Fan Reception
Jacob and Evie Frye quickly became fan favorites due to their dynamic personalities and the engaging narrative surrounding them. Many players appreciated the option to play as a strong female Assassin in Evie, whose stealth gameplay was seen as a return to the roots of the franchise. Jacob’s more direct approach also appealed to players who enjoyed fast-paced action.
Representation in the Franchise
The Fryes represent a turning point in the Assassin’s Creed series by introducing more diverse storytelling and gameplay mechanics. They continue to be referenced in other games and media, solidifying their place in Assassin’s Creed lore. Their appearance in comic books and spin-off stories speaks to their lasting appeal and significance.
Jacob and Evie Frye stand out as memorable protagonists who brought a fresh dynamic to the Assassin’s Creed series. Their distinct personalities, skill sets, and philosophical differences created a compelling narrative that resonated with players. Through their journey in Victorian London, they tackled not only the Templar threat but also the societal injustices of their time. Their combined efforts, driven by both confrontation and intellect, highlight the importance of unity in the face of adversity. As characters and as siblings, Jacob and Evie Frye have earned their place as iconic figures in gaming history.