As we reported, today's Animus Project 1.0 DLC adds a new map set in the French town of Mont Saint-Michel and a new "Advanced Alliance" gameplay mode. The difference between "Alliance" and "Advanced Alliance" is the same difference that exists between "Wanted" and "Advanced Wanted": target identification and engagement are more difficult in the advanced modes, making stealthy stalking even more critical to success.

Animus Project 2.0, the second piece of free multiplayer DLC due in January, adds the Pienza Map and a brand new "Chest Capture Multiplayer Mode." The Pienza Map "provides the perfect free-running playground where predators and targets can blend and disappear." Chest Capture Multiplayer pits two teams of three players against each other with the goal of either defending or trying to capture designated chests.

The Animus Project 2.0 DLC will also included a "Templar Score feature" which will somehow "reward diligent work by Abstergo recruits."

When I reviewed Assassin's Creed Brotherhood, I thought the unique assassination-based multiplayer was a blast, but sort of wondered what its staying power would be like. Now that the game's had several weeks in the wild, it seems like its got some legs. It's a tense, unique multiplayer experience that serves as a welcome break from the multitude of shooters out there.