Great game, as usual, but with disappointments

I have been to AC lover since Game 1. The subplot of this game returns to Altair's time and follows him until his death. Nice addition to play Altair as an old one. Ezio, the current game's protagonist, is wrapping up his own life as to Assassin and trying to solve the mystery of the apple. I enjoyed Ezio's new love interest, Sophia, and his role as mentor to new assassins (same as Brotherhood). I have to agree with other reviewers in fact the upgrade left much to be Desired. The only reason I gave this game 4 starts instead of 5 is this did indeed feel like another Brotherhood. 2 of the main upgrades, bomb making and the defense, could have been better. I liked using bombs, but most of the time forgot I had them. There were not enough situation presented to really get me to the point where using bombs was as tactical as throwing knives or using my sword. I hated the the defense. Honestly, I preferred to let the Byzantines win and later simply kill captain there. It was much easier. The defense to what kind of annoying. The best upgrade to the game what the use of a hookblade. I used it everywhere. I loved zipline assassinations and made it so much easier and quicker climbing.

Overall, this is a great game. I was simply disappointed with the upgrades and I feel the game did not reach its full potential. I just expected more. HOWEVER, my disappointment did not prevent me from thoroughly enjoying this game. I want to continue to play the series and already can not wait until the next edition with a new protagonist!