Ubisoft finally unveiled the newest installment in the long-running Assassin’s Creed franchise – Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Stepping away from the European settings of recent years, Shadows takes players on a thrilling adventure through 16th century Japan, a period highly anticipated by fans. With a unique dual-protagonist system, a legendary historical figure, and a deep dive into a pivotal moment in Japanese history, Shadows promises to be an unforgettable experience.
A Dream Realized: Feudal Japan Takes Center Stage
For over a decade, fans have clamored for a game set in feudal Japan. Marc-Alexis Côté, Executive Vice President in charge of the Assassin’s Creed franchise, acknowledged this in his presentation on Codename Red (the working title for Shadows). Finally, with Shadows, Ubisoft delivers on this long-held desire. The game meticulously recreates 1579 Japan, a vibrant tapestry woven with samurai warriors, stealthy shinobi, Portuguese traders, and Western missionaries. If you enjoyed the historical drama of the Netflix series “Shogun,” Shadows offers a chance to truly immerse yourself in that world.
A Pivotal Historical Period: The Azuchi-Momoyama Era
Stéphanie-Anne Ruatta, Executive Director and Historian at Ubisoft Quebec, explains the team’s decision-making process: “We always strive to choose settings that are rich with historical context to fuel the narrative and gameplay. For Shadows, that pivotal moment is 16th century Japan, specifically the Azuchi-Momoyama era. This period marked the transition between the war-torn Sengoku period and the relatively peaceful Edo period. It represents the last stand of the samurai in grand battles and signifies the end of their dominance as the primary military force.”
A Samurai Like No Other: Yasuke, the Legendary African Warrior
With samurai being the dominant military force of the era, it’s no surprise you’ll take on the role of a samurai in Shadows. However, the game throws a unique twist by allowing you to play as a real historical figure for the first time in Assassin’s Creed history. Enter Yasuke, the legendary “African Samurai.” Born in Mozambique, Yasuke arrived in Japan in 1579 with a Portuguese missionary and went on to serve the powerful daimyo, Oda Nobunaga.
“Yasuke acts as a bridge between some of the most influential figures of the era,” explains Brooke Davies, Assistant Director. “He represents a fascinating entry point into the story, with ties to both Oda Nobunaga and the Portuguese. He serves as a historical linchpin, and based on what we know, we were excited to explore his journey.” Through Yasuke’s eyes, Shadows delves into themes of honor, justice, and navigating a complex political landscape.
Dual Protagonists: A Ninja’s Stealth and a Samurai’s Might
But Yasuke isn’t the only playable character. Similar to Assassin’s Creed Syndicate (2015), Shadows boasts a dual-protagonist system, allowing players to switch between two distinct characters with unique playstyles. Alongside Yasuke stands Naoe, a swift and agile kunoichi (female ninja) whose skillset aligns more with the traditional Assassin’s Creed hero archetype. Naoe is a fictional character, the daughter of Lord Fujibayashi Nagato.
The gameplay for Naoe and Yasuke will differ significantly. Yasuke, a formidable warrior, excels in open combat, wielding his katana with devastating efficiency. Conversely, Naoe thrives in the shadows, utilizing stealth, agility, and a variety of ninja tools to eliminate enemies unseen. Players who favor the classic Assassin’s Creed style of stealthy takedowns will find Naoe a thrilling character to control.
Beyond the Story: A World to Explore
Shadows promises not just a captivating narrative but also a richly detailed world teeming with activities. Players can expect to navigate bustling towns and serene countryside, each brimming with life. Ubisoft has hinted at a robust side-quest system that delves deeper into the lives of the people and the historical context of the era. Whether it’s assisting local merchants, uncovering hidden secrets, or honing your combat skills through optional challenges, Shadows offers a plethora of ways to engage with the world beyond the main story.
A New Era for Assassin’s Creed
Assassin’s Creed Shadows marks a significant departure from recent entries in the series. With its captivating historical setting, unique dual-protagonist system, and emphasis on both open combat and stealthy tactics, Shadows promises to cater to a wide range of player preferences. Whether you’re a longtime Assassin’s Creed fan yearning for a fresh experience or a newcomer to the franchise, Shadows’ immersive world and engaging story are sure to leave a lasting impression. The wait is almost over, as Shadows is slated to release on November 15, 2024.
