Ubisoft, the development team behind Assassin’s Creed Shadows, the upcoming installment in the popular franchise set in Feudal Japan, has issued a statement and addresses the controversy and recent criticism regarding the game’s historical accuracy.
Ubisoft released an official statement directed primarily at the Japanese gaming community, acknowledging the concerns raised since the game’s announcement. The controversy stems largely from the inclusion of Yasuke, a Black samurai, as one of two playable characters, as well as alleged historical inaccuracies and the mistaken use of Chinese subtitles in promotional materials.
In their statement, the developers emphasized their commitment to creating an immersive and respectful representation of Feudal Japan while maintaining the series’ tradition of blending historical fiction with creative liberties. They clarified that they do not intend Assassin’s Creed games, including Shadows, to be factual representations of history but rather entertainment products that spark curiosity about historical settings.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is first and foremost, designed to be an entertaining video game that tells a compelling, historical fiction set in Feudal Japan.
The team highlighted their collaboration with external consultants, historians, researchers, and Ubisoft Japan to inform their creative choices. However, they stressed that the creative team makes final decisions about gameplay and entertainment, not these collaborators.
While apologizing for elements in promotional materials that caused concern within the Japanese community, the developers reaffirmed their commitment to continuing development efforts based on constructive criticism received.
Ubisoft will release Assassin’s Creed Shadows on November 15, 2024 and the development team hopes players worldwide will appreciate the dedication and effort they invested in the game’s creation.