Have you ever wanted to virtually wander through the streets of Paris and have items of interest pointed out to you by the voice of Gollum? Well, now you're in luck, because as a promotion for the upcoming video game Assassin's Creed Unity, Ubisoft has released an interactive virtual map of 18th century Paris narrated by Andy Serkis.
The map, which resembles Google's street view, plops you right down in the middle of an older version of Paris, allowing you to zoom in on certain details, including points of interest from the Assassin's Creed Unity game, which takes place during the French Revolution. The web app, called Project Widow, also speaks to you, in Serkis' voice, about Paris' history, particularly about the French Revolution, and tells you trivia about the City of Light.
Also, don't miss the game-themed rap videos that pop up along your virtual travels. However, be warned: the rap videos don't feature Serkis.
The interactive map also gives you game Easter eggs, as well as exclusive YouTube videos only available via exploring it. There are also some role-playing elements, where you receive rewards every time you explore a new area, similar to rewards given in the Assassin's Creed games.
And don't worry, there's no learning curve needed to navigate the maps. Those familiar with the animus machine from the previous Assassin's Creed video games will find the user interface familiar.
Ubisoft also announced the Assassin's Creed Unity season pass which will include two stories with eight hours of additional content, such as missions, weapons, skills and gear.
"For $29.99 the Season Pass opens up every piece of DLC, including the Dead Kings campaign; new weapons, gear and skills; and even an entirely new game called Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China," writes Ubisoft on its blog. "All this content will be available by early 2015. Those who pre-order the Season Pass will receive the exclusive double-handed war axe."
The Dead Kings DLC will take you to the outskirts of Paris to Saint Denis. There, Arno, the main character of the game, will explore the mysteries surrounding this area, including the city's extensive underground region and the Catacombs.
The China DLC picks up with another character, Shao Jun, previously seen in the Assassin's Creed Embers animated film. The setting is Beijing, where Shao Jun, the city's last assassin, is taking out revenge on those who destroyed the brotherhood there.
Assassin's Creed Unity releases on the PS4, Xbox One and PC on Nov. 11.
