Nolan North, the voice actor for Desmond in the Assassin's Creed series, revealed he was unaware he recorded Desmond's death scene in Assassin's Creed III until after the game’s release, when he found out on Twitter. This announcement created confusion as it lacked the dramatic flair associated with a main character's demise. Desmond's legacy continues, though, as Ubisoft has suggested that his consciousness lives on within the Animus, particularly referenced in Assassin's Creed Valhalla where he appears as a character known as The Reader. North expressed regret about leaving the role, highlighting the evolving narrative direction of the series which aims to attract new players. Ubisoft's strategy has seen a reduction in the focus on modern day segments in favor of historical content.

Is Desmond still alive in Assassin's Creed?

Yes, according to Ubisoft, Desmond's consciousness continues to exist within the Animus, making him "technically" still alive, as hinted in Assassin's Creed Valhalla where he appears as The Reader.

The Assassin's Creed franchise debuted in 2007, centering on a historical narrative intertwined with modern-day conflicts, following characters like Desmond Miles. The series transitioned to include various protagonists over the years while also exploring a complex lore surrounding the Animus, a device that allows users to experience genetic memories. With the evolution of the series, Ubisoft has shifted storytelling methods, moving away from a single narrative arc to a broader exploration of diverse historical settings. This adaptation aims to engage both long-term fans and newcomers to the franchise.