The Great Cataclysm
The solar flare that ended the age of gods and birthed humanity's struggle for freedom.
The Great Catastrophe stands as the defining historical event of the Assassin's Creed universe, marking the abrupt and violent end of the First Civilization, also known as the Isu. Occurring in prehistoric times, this disaster was caused by a massive solar flare that devastated Earth's surface, wiping out nearly all advanced Isu technology and infrastructure while simultaneously decimating the human population that had risen to challenge them.
- Event Type
- Planetary Disaster
- Primary Cause
- Solar Flare Interaction with Isu Technology
- Era
- Prehistoric / End of First Civilization Era
- Key Survivors
- First Civilization Remnants, Early Humans
- Legacy
- Scattering of the Isu and the rise of human civilization
Lore & Background
The aftermath reshaped human history. Survivors of both species scattered across the globe, with the remaining Isu fading into myth as 'gods' while humanity rebuilt from the ashes. The artifacts left behind by the First Civilization became known as Pieces of Eden, powerful tools that drove centuries of conflict between those who sought to control them and those who wished to keep them hidden. This catastrophe set the stage for the eternal struggle between the Assassin Brotherhood and the Templar Order.
In Their Own Story
The sky above the Grand Temple burned a violent shade of violet as the alarms blared through the pristine white halls. Kassandra, no not her ancestor, but an Isu scientist named Aita stared at the monitors displaying the solar activity spiking beyond all safety parameters. Outside, the cities of Atlantis glowed with dying light, and the screams of humanity echoed against the rising heat. He knew there was no escape from the flare's reach, only the cold embrace of the sleep chambers. With trembling hands, he initiated the final protocol, sealing the doors just as the world turned to fire.
Reader's Guide
Understanding the Great Cataclysm is essential for navigating the timeline of Assassin's Creed. It explains why ancient myths speak of gods falling from the sky and why certain ruins possess impossible technology. The event serves as the origin point for all major artifacts in the series, including the Apple of Eden and the Staff of Hermes Trismegistus. These items were designed to survive the disaster and guide humanity afterward. For players, this lore connects modern-day sequences with ancient simulations. The Animus allows users to relive memories from before the event, revealing how the Isu planned for their own extinction and manipulated human evolution through genetic engineering.
Did You Know?
- The Grand Temple was an Isu structure built for broader purposes, such as accessing the Grey/Yggdrasil system, though it did not house the Staff of Hermes Trismegistus; that artifact was located in the Temple of Pythagor
- Most Pieces of Eden activate based on genetics, willpower, or specific knowledge rather than technological maturity.
- Modern-day characters refer to this event as 'the Great Catastrophe' in canonical lore and dialogue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused The Great Cataclysm?
This planetary disaster was triggered by a massive solar flare interacting with the First Civilization's global energy infrastructure. The resulting electromagnetic pulse devastated the surface and destroyed most advanced Isu technology.
When did The Great Cataclysm happen?
This event occurred roughly seventy-five thousand years ago during the end of the First Civilization era. It marks the transition from the age of the Isu gods to the rise of modern human history.
Who survived The Great Cataclysm?
Only a small fraction of humanity and a few members of the First Civilization managed to survive the initial destruction. Many Isu retreated into hidden vaults while early humans scattered across the globe to rebuild society.
Why is The Great Cataclysm important to Assassin's Creed lore?
This catastrophe explains the origin of the hidden artifacts known as Pieces of Eden scattered throughout human history. It also established the ideological conflict between those who seek control over humanity's destiny versus those who protect free will.
Did The Great Cataclysm kill all Isu?
While the majority of the First Civilization perished, a select few managed to preserve their consciousness within the Pieces of Eden or hidden facilities. These remnants later influenced human history from the shadows until modern times.
More in Lore & History
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