Assassin’s Creed III hints point to American Revolution

A purportedly leaked image of Assassin's Creed III's protagonist adds weight to its rumoured setting during the American Revolution.

Kotaku has a photo it received from a Best Buy employee, which is claimed to show a promotional image of Assassin's Creed III's lead character.

A historical version of the US flag and military jacket tie in with earlier rumours of an American Revolution setting.

Kotaku speculates that the character's weapons - a bow and quiver - and jewellery suggests he may be a Native American, adding that out of shot, the character is carrying a tomahawk.

Ubisoft revealed via the Assassin's Creed Facebook page that a major announcement is due very soon; the page's makeover was echoed and Liked by one Julián Auditore. It's not clear whether this page's many references to the franchise are a fan effort or a marketing move.

Kotaku translated the fragment of Arabic on the page as "I am not a bird", a possible reference to original series protagonist Altair, whose name means "bird". Julián's fondness for Lady Gaga and Daft Punk suggests he might not be legit - but then again, perhaps he's a new modern-day character, replacing Desmond Miles.

Looks like the game will also be the next cover for the new Game Informer, with a leaked banner from the magazine's site showing never-before seen art to promote the behind-the-scenes hub for its month-long coverage (thanks, @TaleSpun).

Assassin's Creed III is due on major platforms in October.

[Original story by Brenna Hillier, updates by Johnny Cullen]