The Apple of Eden is the ancient Isu artifact repeatedly featured as a powerful relic in Assassin's Creed games.
In the series' mythology, Apples of Eden are Pieces of Eden created by the Isu, an advanced civilization that existed before humanity's recorded history. Their abilities include influencing human perception and controlling minds, which makes them valuable to both Assassins and Templars.
The first game centers on Altaïr's pursuit of an Apple, while later stories reveal that multiple Apples exist. Their effects are presented as technological rather than supernatural within the franchise's fictional history, although historical characters often interpret them through religious or mystical language.
The Apple is one member of the broader Pieces of Eden group. It should not be confused with the Staff of Hermes, the Shroud of Eden, or the Sword of Eden, which are separate artifacts with different properties and story roles.