Assassin’s Creed Shadows is a monumental addition to an expansive franchise known for its rich historical narratives. Whether you're stepping into the world of Assassin’s Creed for the first time with Shadows or returning after a hiatus, here's everything you need to familiarize yourself with the game.
Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Overlap With Other AC Games? Answered
The timeline of the Assassin’s Creed series spans continents and eras, offering a diverse array of settings across various centuries. Typically, each game stands on its own in terms of story and setting, a trend solidified after Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set in the vibrant world of 16th-century Japan. The closest any other Assassin’s Creed game comes to this period is Brotherhood and Revelations, set in Italy and Constantinople in the early 1500s. Given the significant temporal and geographical differences, Shadows does not directly connect with these games.
Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Have a Modern-Day Story? Answered
In its early years, particularly during the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 era, the Assassin’s Creed series was known for its modern-day narrative thread, with characters like Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North, playing a pivotal role. However, the modern-day elements have since struggled to maintain their initial impact.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces a fresh modern-day storyline aimed at re-engaging fans. You don't need to be familiar with previous modern-day plots to enjoy Shadows. The new story is sparse and enigmatic, adding an air of mystery to the overall experience.
Is Assassin’s Creed Shadows Connected to the Series and Does it Matter If You’ve Played It Before?
While Assassin’s Creed Shadows isn't a direct sequel to any specific game, Ubisoft hasn't completely severed ties with the series' history. The game includes Easter eggs, nods, and iconic imagery from the franchise, delighting long-time fans without overwhelming newcomers.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows can be enjoyed as a standalone adventure, yet it incorporates significant elements like the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars. These connections unfold gradually, allowing both new and returning players ample time to immerse themselves in the world of Feudal Japan without needing prior knowledge of the series.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is now available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.
