Assassin's Creed II: Bonfire of the Vanities

Narrative Expansion in Florence

The storyline of this DLC picks up nine years after a significant conflict, placing Florence under the oppressive control of the monk Girolamo Savonarola. Savonarola wields a powerful artifact, the Apple of Eden, which he stole from a wounded Ezio. The core narrative sees Ezio returning to Florence to reclaim the artifact and restore order.

Upon arrival, Ezio allies with Niccolò Machiavelli in the newly accessible Oltrarno District. The central objective involves systematically eliminating Savonarola’s nine lieutenants, who are actively terrorizing the populace. This culminates in a confrontation at the Palazzo Pitti, where Ezio intervenes as the citizens rise up against the monk, leading to a dramatic conclusion involving the Piece of Eden and the fate of Savonarola.

What new areas can players explore?

What makes this content significant for returning players is the introduction of new playable areas and dedicated challenges. Players gain access to the previously restricted Oltrarno District of Florence, expanding the map available for exploration, traversal, and stealth operations within the city.

New Challenge Content Included

Furthermore, this pack includes access to three Templar Lairs. These lairs function as self-contained challenge areas, offering intricate puzzles and combat scenarios that test the player's mastery of Ezio’s skills. These missions were originally exclusive to special editions of the main game, making this DLC a comprehensive way to experience all core content.

Core Gameplay Integration

This DLC does not introduce entirely new gameplay mechanics; rather, it utilizes and expands upon the established adventure and action mechanics of the parent game. Players will engage in the familiar blend of parkour, social stealth, and assassination combat, applying these skills within the new district and the dedicated Templar Lairs.

The scope of this content is focused, providing a substantial narrative chapter and several high-quality challenge missions, rather than a massive open-world expansion. It serves as a direct continuation of Ezio’s immediate story arc.

What platforms support this content?

This downloadable content was released for the Xbox 360, PC (Microsoft Windows), and PlayStation 3 platforms.