The Apple of Eden is the Isu artifact that can control minds and alter perceptions in the Assassin's Creed series.
It is one of the Pieces of Eden, powerful objects created by the Isu, the technologically advanced civilization that existed before humanity's recorded history in the series. The Apple is usually depicted as a small spherical artifact capable of projecting illusions, influencing thoughts, and controlling human behavior.
Different Apples appear in the franchise, and several historical characters seek or use them. The artifact is central to the conflict because Templars often view Pieces of Eden as tools for imposing order, while Assassins try to prevent their misuse. Its powers are fictional and are explained through the series' science-fiction mythology rather than magic.
The Apple should not be confused with the Sword of Eden or the Staff of Hermes Trismegistus, which are separate Pieces of Eden with different histories and abilities. The artifact's recurring appearance links storylines across ancient, medieval, and modern settings.