In Assassin's Creed Rogue, which former Assassin becomes the game's main protagonist?

In Assassin's Creed Rogue, the former Assassin who becomes the main protagonist is Shay Patrick Cormac. The story follows his break with the Brotherhood and his later service to the Templars.

Shay begins as an Assassin operating in the North Atlantic during the Seven Years' War. After a devastating mission involving an ancient site, he becomes disillusioned with the Brotherhood's methods. The narrative then reverses the usual series perspective: Shay hunts former allies while working with Templar leaders.

Haytham Kenway appears prominently because of the game's connection to Assassin's Creed III, but he is not Rogue's protagonist. Edward Kenway is the lead character of Black Flag, while Arno Dorian leads Unity. Shay's change of allegiance is the defining premise of Rogue.