The powerful precursor artifact shaped like an apple in Assassin's Creed is called the Apple of Eden. It is one of the series' Pieces of Eden, devices created by the technologically advanced Isu.
The Apples are usually depicted as small, glowing spheres. They can influence human minds, create powerful illusions, and project information or energy, depending on the particular story. Because the Isu existed before recorded human history, later cultures often interpreted these artifacts through religious or legendary traditions.
The Apple plays an important role in the first Assassin's Creed game, where Altaïr encounters one after assassinating Robert de Sablé. Its powers help explain why the Templars and Assassins repeatedly compete to control ancient artifacts rather than merely seeking political influence.
The term is easy to confuse with other Pieces of Eden, including swords, staffs, and shrouds. In the franchise, “Apple of Eden” specifically identifies the spherical artifact, not every precursor relic.