So, between playing the epicness that is Super Mario Galaxy, I took an hour to play this. Here's what I have to say:
So far? It's good. It's not quite what I expected, and the plot screams of "Death Note".
Here's the basic rundown, from what I've gotten so far:
! Basically, a corporation has built a computer capable of analyzing genetic code for genetic memory. In other words, they have found a way to read the memories stored in the genetic code of an individual by scanning their descendants. The only problem is that some of the memories are locked away, and in order to recover these memories, the descendant must relive the memories of their ancestor.
! The subject of interest in this case is Desmond Miles, the ancestor of Altair Ibn LarAhad (Which literally translates to "Son of None". They're seeking a specific memory of his for an unknown purpose (as of yet, I'm not that far in the game), but the doctor who operates the machine seems to hint that it has something to do with creating the perfect Assassin.
Okay, let's go to the gameplay:
It's pretty fluid. Combat with the sword is pretty easy to control, and blocking and attacking works well. You can jump between most structures and even run up walls; the only thing that seems a bit glitchy is that sometimes when jumping across multiple objects (Floor beam to floor beam, for example), you may have to take a second to stop and reposition the camera or end up missing your landing point. Other than that, the controls seem solid.
Graphics are top notch, and so is the AI. You really feel like you're in the 12th century, and the people will react accordingly with your behavior. Guards have three states: Alert, Aware, and Passive. They'll react differently to you depending on their status. Passive guards won't react unless you kill someone in front of them, whereas alert guards will attack on sight, unless you're in inconspicuous mode.
Side quests abound: collecting flags are one (like the hidden packages in GTA), and there's also one with killing certain targets. you can also get eagle eye views of the land in some spots, followed by a leap of faith (The failproof way to leap from high places without killing yourself).
! One thing that's reminds you that you're in the present living this memories is that on certain objects (people, flags, etc.), computer data will display. You get used to it, but I thought it was odd at first.
So far, a fun game. The hidden blade is especially fun to use.