Which Assassin’s Creed game introduced the recruitable Brotherhood system and the first major multiplayer mode?

Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood introduced the recruitable Brotherhood system and the first major multiplayer mode in the series.

Released in 2010, Brotherhood lets Ezio recruit civilians, train them as Assassins, and send them on missions across Europe. Recruits can also be called into combat, creating a system built around developing and managing an organized network rather than relying only on the protagonist.

The game also introduced competitive multiplayer to the main franchise. Its multiplayer places players in stealth-focused matches where they track targets, blend into crowds, and attempt assassinations while avoiding pursuit. This contrasted with the single-player campaign’s historical narrative.

Assassin’s Creed II had established Ezio’s story but did not include this full recruitable organization or the same multiplayer structure. Later games modified both ideas, but Brotherhood is the entry most specifically associated with their debut.