Assassin's Creed Odyssey, set in the vibrant and tumultuous world of ancient Greece during the Peloponnesian War, offers players a rich tapestry of historical detail woven into its thrilling narrative. Beyond the epic battles and political intrigue, the game subtly incorporates elements of daily life, religious practices, and the intricate social fabric of the era. One such fascinating element is the pervasive presence of Hermes, the Olympian god of messengers, thieves, travellers, and boundaries – a presence far more significant than a simple mythological cameo. His influence extends beyond his divine status, deeply intertwining with the gameplay mechanics and the very structure of the game world itself.
The game cleverly utilizes the historical practice of using Hermes statues as public notice boards. During the late 5th century BCE, the Peloponnese and the Greek islands were dotted with these statues, serving as de facto community bulletin boards. Citizens posted everything from bounties and contracts – essentially the ancient Greek equivalent of modern wanted posters and job listings – to personal announcements and other miscellaneous information. This practice, accurately depicted in Odyssey, adds a layer of realism and historical authenticity to the game's world. Players frequently encounter these statues, their bases covered in parchment scrolls detailing quests, mercenary contracts, or even cryptic clues leading to hidden locations and treasures. These seemingly minor details contribute significantly to the immersive experience, transforming the game world into a believable and historically informed environment.
The game's depiction of Hermes goes beyond his role as a message board facilitator. His worship is also subtly incorporated into the narrative. The island of Kythera, for example, is prominently featured in the game and is known for its significant connection to the cult of Hermes. While the game doesn't explicitly focus on a single major cult dedicated to Hermes on Kythera, the island's prominence and its location within the game's world implicitly suggest the widespread reverence for the god across the Aegean. This subtle inclusion of religious practices underscores the game's commitment to historical accuracy and its ability to weave mythological elements seamlessly into its gameplay.
This leads us to consider specific in-game elements directly related to Hermes:
The Staff of Hermes Trismegistus: This legendary artifact, while not explicitly tied to the Olympian Hermes in the same way as the message boards, represents a powerful magical item in the game. Its presence hints at the broader, more esoteric aspects of Hermes' influence – a connection to alchemy, hermeticism, and the occult that extends beyond the simple act of delivering messages. The quest to obtain and utilize the staff adds a layer of mystical intrigue to the game, enriching the overall narrative. The acquisition of the staff often involves navigating intricate puzzles, battling formidable enemies, and uncovering hidden secrets, mirroring the multifaceted nature of the god himself. The staff's power and its association with a figure like Hermes Trismegistus, a legendary figure associated with both Greek and Egyptian hermetic traditions, elevates it beyond a mere weapon, transforming it into a symbol of knowledge, power, and hidden wisdom.
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