Assassin’s Creed Shadows takes place in Feudal Japan during the Sengoku period and features two main characters: Yasuke, an African samurai, and Naoe, a Japanese shinobi. The game blends historical context with innovative gameplay, emphasizing the era’s conflicts and cultural transformations.
Players will experience the stealth and strategy of feudal Japan in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. You can pre-order the game on the official Ubisoft Store for PC, PS5, Xbox, and Mac through the App Store. The Digital Deluxe edition will be available to play on day one for subscribers of Ubisoft+.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set to be released on March 20, 2025. Players will engage in the story from both stealth and combat perspectives, capturing the essence of this tumultuous period leading to Japan’s unification under the Tokugawa shogunate.
Exploring Feudal Japan with Naoe and Yasuke
Two Sides of the Same Coin
Assassin’s Creed Shadows takes players to feudal Japan during the Sengoku period. This time, there are two main characters: Naoe, a skilled shinobi assassin, and Yasuke, a real historical figure of African origin who became a samurai. This dual protagonist setup is a first for the main Assassin’s Creed series. It offers two distinct ways to play. Naoe focuses on stealth, using her agility and ninja tools to move unseen. Yasuke, with his samurai training, is better suited for direct combat. This difference in play style adds depth to the game. Players can pick the character that fits their preferred approach to each mission.
A Look at the Setting
The Sengoku period (roughly 1467 to 1615) was a time of war and political change in Japan. Powerful feudal lords fought for control, and the samurai class played a key role in these conflicts. Oda Nobunaga, a famous figure from this time, is in the game. The developers are working to make a setting that is true to history. They are using real-world locations and historical research to build the game’s world. This means players can explore virtual versions of actual Japanese castles, towns, and landscapes.
Gameplay Mechanics and Features
Assassin’s Creed Shadows builds on the open-world action-RPG style of recent Assassin’s Creed games. But, it puts more focus on stealth. Here are some key features:
- Dual Protagonists: Switch between Naoe and Yasuke. Each has unique skill trees and play styles.
- Historical Accuracy: Explore a detailed version of feudal Japan, with real places and people.
- Non-Linear Missions: Choose how to complete objectives.
- Spy Network: Build a network of spies to gather information and help with missions.
Comparing Protagonist Playstyles
| Feature | Naoe | Yasuke |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Stealth, agility, assassination | Direct combat, heavy weaponry |
| Weapons | Kusarigama, throwing knives | Katana, Kanabo |
| Approach | Infiltration, silent takedowns | Frontal assaults, open conflict |
What We Know So Far
Ubisoft officially showed Assassin’s Creed Shadows in May 2024. The first trailer gave us a look at the two characters and the setting. Since then, more details have come out through interviews and previews. The game is part of Assassin’s Creed Infinity. This is a platform that will connect all future Assassin’s Creed games.
Questions Players Might Have
- When does it come out? Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set to launch in 2024.
- What platforms will it be on? Ubisoft has not announced all platforms yet, but it will likely be on current-gen consoles and PC.
- Is it connected to other games? It is part of the Assassin’s Creed Infinity platform.
- How does the dual protagonist system work? Players can switch between Naoe and Yasuke at different points in the game.
- Will there be microtransactions? Ubisoft hasn’t given details on monetization yet.
Beyond Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Exploring Feudal Japan in Games
If the setting of Assassin’s Creed Shadows interests you, there are other games that explore feudal Japan. Ghost of Tsushima is a popular example. It is an open-world action game set during the Mongol invasion of Japan in the 13th century. It features sword combat, stealth, and exploration of a beautiful game world. The Total War: Shogun series offers a different take. These strategy games let players control different clans and fight for control of Japan. They offer a grand-scale view of warfare and politics during the feudal era. These games, along with Assassin’s Creed Shadows, provide different ways to experience this fascinating period of history.
Short Summary:
- Players navigate Feudal Japan as Yasuke and Naoe, each providing a distinct gameplay experience.
- The game retains classic Assassin’s Creed elements while introducing enhanced combat and stealth mechanics.
- Ubisoft aims for authenticity, consulting historians to create an accurate representation of 16th-century Japan.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set against the backdrop of 16th-century Japan, an era characterized by strife and political intrigue during the late Sengoku period. This exciting new installment in the well-loved Assassin’s Creed franchise is set to launch on February 14, 2025. It brings players a profound narrative featuring two starkly contrasting protagonists—Yasuke and Naoe—each navigating a richly detailed historical environment. Their intertwining stories and parallel journeys provide players with unique insights into the era while offering varied gameplay styles that are sure to captivate fans of the series.
Dual Protagonist Design:
One of the most thrilling innovations in Assassin’s Creed Shadows is its dual protagonist system, allowing players to switch between Yasuke, an African samurai, and Naoe, a skilled shinobi. Each character offers a fundamentally different gameplay experience; Yasuke excels in direct combat, while Naoe is adept at stealth and infiltration. This contrasting gameplay design not only enhances player choice but also enriches the narrative, allowing players to explore varied perspectives on the tumultuous events of Feudal Japan.
“We wanted to push the idea of dual protagonists further than we did in past titles, really diving deep into their backgrounds and experiences,” explained Simon Lemay-Comtois, associate game director at Ubisoft Quebec.
As players step into Yasuke’s shoes, they embrace a powerful combat style. His formidable presence on the battlefield contrasts sharply with Naoe’s stealth-oriented tactics. Combining the strengths of these two characters leads to engaging gameplay strategies. Players can tackle missions using a mix of both characters, leveraging their unique capabilities to adapt to any challenge that emerges within the game.
Setting the Scene in Feudal Japan:
Assassin’s Creed Shadows distinctly zeroes in on the Sengoku period, an era rife with violence and political maneuvering. The 16th century serves as a crucial moment in Japanese history, marked by the rise of notable figures like Oda Nobunaga, who sought to unify the nation amidst civil unrest. The developers at Ubisoft Quebec have committed themselves to an authentic portrayal of this era, engaging with historians and cultural consultants to ensure that every facet of the world—from architecture to samurai culture—is meticulously recreated.
“We recognize the responsibility we have in portraying a culture that isn’t our own,” Lemay-Comtois stated. “It’s essential for us to approach it with humility and respect.”
The attention to detail is evident across stunning landscapes and dynamic settings, from the bustling streets of jōkamachi (castle towns) to the serene nature surrounding them. Variable weather conditions and a dynamic season system will add depth to the gameplay experience. Players can expect snow-laden rooftops in winter and the fiery hues of autumn leaves, enhancing the immersive feel of the environment.
Gameplay Innovations:
The gameplay in Assassin’s Creed Shadows integrates familiar mechanics while introducing fresh elements. The revamped combat system will reintroduce classic mechanics from earlier games, emphasizing fluidity in combat. Varied weapons for both characters will cater to their respective playstyles; Naoe thrives on agility and silent takedowns, wielding tools like the Kusarigama and the Hidden Blade, whereas Yasuke embraces brutal power, employing weapons including long katanas and the devastating kanabō.
“Our aim is to create moments of intense action while also allowing for quiet, reflective gameplay,” shared Lemay-Comtois. “We want players to feel the rush of battle and the tension of stealth in equal measure.”
Each protagonist faces distinct enemies ranging from ronin to elite samurai, with gameplay requiring players to employ strategy that matches their character’s strengths. The combat system is tailored to incorporate both light and heavy attacks, alongside defensive maneuvers that reward player skill and timing. Dynamic enemy encounters will challenge players, necessitating adaptability to thrive in ever-changing battle scenarios.
Cultivating Cultural Respect:
Ubisoft has faced scrutiny regarding representation within the game, particularly given Yasuke’s historical background as an African man in Japan. However, their commitment to authenticity shines through. Despite initial backlash, the inclusion of Yasuke arises from a desire to explore untold stories and highlight the rich tapestry of Japan’s history during a dramatic era.
“This game is about representation, respect, and embracing narratives that have been overlooked,” Lemay-Comtois stated, defending the choice of protagonists.
It’s essential that this portrayal remains sensitive and respectful to the culture and people of Japan, which is a focal point for the development team at Ubisoft. By offering Naoe as a counterbalance to Yasuke, the game invites players to experience the story through the lens of both an insider and an outsider. This approach aims to foster empathy and understanding, enriching the narrative experience across varied character journeys.
Historical Figures and Narrative Depth:
The dual storylines not only showcase the protagonists’ struggle but also intertwine with historical events and characters. Players will encounter significant figures like Oda Nobunaga, a central figure in the historical narrative.
“Incorporating real historical individuals allows us to create an immersive tapestry that intersects fact and fiction,” noted Lemay-Comtois.
This narrative approach provides players with the chance to explore themes of loyalty, honor, and betrayal within a framework of significant events shaping the fabric of Japan. As the plot unfolds, players will navigate personal conflicts while engaging in the broader societal upheaval, keeping interest piqued throughout their journey.
Looking Forward:
While Assassin’s Creed Shadows is still months away from its February 2025 release, anticipation is building as players eagerly await the chance to navigate its stunning landscapes and diverse narratives. The deep commitment to creating an engaging world ensures it will resonate with both longtime series fans and newcomers alike. Ubisoft’s substantive push for authenticity, engaging storytelling, and varied gameplay styles show that they aim to deliver a truly memorable installment in the Assassin’s Creed lineage.
“We believe Shadows will mark a significant evolution in the Assassin’s Creed franchise. Our focus is on delivering innovation while connecting players to both character-driven stories and the historical landscape of Japan,” concluded Lemay-Comtois.
With dynamic gameplay elements, a richly crafted world, and captivating characters, Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set to redefine expectations and immerse players in the heart of Feudal Japan. As we anticipate its arrival next February, it stands poised to make its mark as one of the most remarkable entries in the beloved Assassin’s Creed franchise.
