Shaun Hastings

Shaun Hastings is a character in Assassin's Creed II. He is voiced and modelled after Danny Wallace, the British humourist. He is a historian assisting Desmond by researching and giving him information about the Italian Renaissance. He is a sarcastic nerd character.

Through conversations in Assassin's Creed II, Desmond learns that Shaun was interested in conspiracies from an early age. Though he was unaware of the existence of modern-day Templars and Assassins, he realised that there was some power-struggle going on. Shaun attempted to tell others about his findings, not realising that the Templars would want to silence him. Fortunately, Rebecca Crane "rescued" Shaun, and recruited him as an Assassin. This was somewhat unconventional, as Assassins are usually born into the order, as with Desmond. He also seems to be a very joking character.

Explaining to Desmond about the new location...the Italian Renassiance

Shaun is often cynical, condescending and pessimistic. Sometimes he will have little patience to talk to Desmond, other times he will lead off into long conversations. While Shaun's annoyance is usually directed at Desmond, he does insult Rebecca's immaturity by saying "the grown-ups are talking now" - even though she may have saved his life. During the modern segments, Shaun says that he enjoys his work researching behind a desk instead of being out in the field. In a contrast to his current job, Shaun claims that he has killed before, and it is likely that he will kill again. This other side to Shaun's personality is also shown when he explains that he would like to sit in the Animus and perform Desmond's role.

Trivia

• Danny Wallace (voicing the character) was contacted by Ubisoft when he went to the BAFTA video game awards with a friend. He has been e-mailed, then asked if he would like to be a video game character (but without mentioning which one's). He accepted and it turned out to be Assassin's Creed II.
• Shaun does not seem to like Desmond very much, and constantly insults him. Shorty after he is first introduced in the game, Desmond insults him following an argument.
• Shaun affirms he also provides tactical support for the Assassins on the field.

Interviews

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