Map

Maps were used to help the Assassins navigate around the cities, and plan assassinations or investigations. They acted as a compromise and visualization of Altaïr's and Ezio's memories of the cities layouts, as well as giving a sense of direction for Desmond Miles within the Animus.

More areas appeared on the Animus map after every successful climb and synchronization with a View Point. These virtual maps also marked certain key areas that could be recognized by a unique symbol.

High Middle Ages
While viewing the memories of Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad in the Animus 1.28, the symbols indicated the Assassin's Bureau, investigation missions (Eavesdropping, Interrogation, Pickpocketing and Informants), exits to the Kingdom, and the locations of citizens that could be saved, or had been saved, from soldiers. Additionally, it displayed the icon for Altair's assassination targets upon being granted the assassination by the city's bureau leader.

Renaissance
While viewing the memories of Ezio Auditore da Firenze in the Animus 2.0, symbols were displayed to mark key memories, side memories (such as Races or Courier assignments), shops (Art Merchants, Doctors, Blacksmiths, Tailors, and Travel Stations), treasure chests and Assassin's Tombs. The Mini-Map's frame color also indicated his Social Status.

In Rome, along with the previous symbols, several new ones had been added. These included unique icons for the four guilds (Assassins Guild, Courtesans Guild, Mercenaries Guild and Thieves Guild), the Borgia towers, and Cristina Memories. Additionally, there was an option to change the view of the map to show the division of districts, the percentage of completion in each district, and the completion percentage of having freed Rome itself from the Borgia grasp.

American Revolution
While viewing the memories of Haytham Kenway and Connor during the American War of Independence in the Animus 3.0, Desmond can still use viewpoints and fill his map, but walking through the city will reveal locations as well. The higher the player is, the more that is revealed around them.

American Revolution : Underground Maps
While trying to avoid the British Guards or need to travel to locations faster, Haytham Kenway and Connor tend to use the undergound tunnels in Boston and New York. When you tour the underground tunnels you can unlock fast travel points.