Netflix confirms Assassin’s Creed has started filming — but fans aren’t happy about where the coordinates are set

• Netflix has confirmed that Assassin's Creed has started filming in Rome
• However, some fans have expressed concerns over the show's location and original story
• This news comes after the main cast was confirmed for the series

Filming has commenced on Netflix's Assassin's Creed series, following on from a recent cast announcement that had me feeling optimistic about things.

In a social media post, further casting was posted alongside an announcement that production had begun in Rome, with production primarily filming at the storied Cinecittà Studios.

We have known for a while that the series will follow an original story, instead of adapting the events of the first game, but not everyone is happy with the decision to set it in Ancient Rome, 64 AD.

Throughout the Assassin's Creed franchise, we've been transported to a number of historically rich locations. These have included Jerusalem/Acre in 1191, Florence and Rome in the 1400s-1500s, and the Caribbean in the 1700s. So the Ancient Rome setting is different from what some fans might have expected.

Indeed, one fan on X described the setting as "really disappointing", claiming that it strays too far from what made the games iconic. As a result, there are fears this could be a flop for Netflix, a valid concern whenever games are adapted for the screen.

Another comment suggested that Netflix will have to work hard to make sure the writing quality is good, instead of simply focusing on grand architecture. Style over substance does seem to be a concern in some circles, though getting the visuals right is important. A big reason I'm so drawn to the games is the transportive nature of them, and how easily it is to get lost in the locations.

Although not as critical as the above, this fan seems to have worries about relying too heavily on the location, so that the plot gets lost.

A cautious fan described the original story as a "bold move", so expectations are definitely high. Currently, Netflix is being tight-lipped on the exact plot, with an initial Tudum teaser describing it as "following its characters across pivotal historical events as they battle to shape humanity’s destiny".

Reception to the original story and location has been mixed so far. But with Westworld's Roberto Patino and Halo's David Wiener at the helm of the project, it might surprise fans in a good way.

It's far too early to tell, of course, and since filming has just commenced, we'll have to wait a little while to see how it plays out.

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