Japanese critics are expressing their enthusiasm for the newly launched Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Developed by Ubisoft Quebec, this title offers a breathtaking depiction of Feudal Japan that has captivated reviewers, despite the game’s somewhat tumultuous release.
After facing several delays, Assassin’s Creed Shadows finally hit the shelves on March 20, marking a significant moment in the series’ 18-year journey. Fans were eager to delve into a world set in feudal Japan, yet the introduction of dual protagonists stirred controversy. On one hand, Naoe, a stealthy shinobi, promised a thrilling return to the roots of the series, leaving behind the combat-heavy focus of Odyssey and Valhalla. On the other, Yasuke, a hack-and-slash warrior, became a topic of intense debate. While Yasuke’s character is rooted in history, as a black warrior documented in Japan during the Sengoku period, his portrayal as a samurai raised eyebrows, with even Elon Musk joining the discussion.
Gathering insights from esteemed Japanese outlets such as Dengeki, Game Watch, Gamer, and 4Gamer, Polygon has observed that this immersive journey into Feudal Japan has resonated well with audiences on both sides of the ocean. Critics, getting their hands on the game for over a week now, have largely applauded the offering. With a solid OpenCritic score of 81, Assassin’s Creed Shadows stands just slightly below Assassin’s Creed Valhalla and Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. The belief that gamers would lean towards a purely Japanese narrative seems unfounded, as the game’s reception in Japan is quite positive.
One of the highlights reviewers noted was the realistic rendering of the environment, accentuated by impressive seasonal weather effects. The landscapes, ranging from lush mountains to bustling cities, were so meticulously designed that a 4Gamer reviewer found them reminiscent of childhood memories. The dual protagonists also garnered attention. Naoe was praised for embodying the essence of an Assassin’s Creed hero with a resonant storyline connection. Meanwhile, Yasuke faced some critique for his portrayal as an almost flawless samurai, though his historical significance wasn’t overlooked, aligning with comments from Hideki Kamiya of Bayonetta and Okami fame, who dismissed the controversy as noise from a vocal minority.
Ubisoft Quebec’s efforts have not gone unnoticed by critics, nor has their attention to cultural sensitivity. A gameplay clip showing a player defacing a replica of the Itatehyozu Shinto Shrine led to Japan’s Prime Minister, Shigeru Ishiba, cautioning against real-world defacement risks inspired by the game. In response, Ubisoft Quebec quickly released a patch making certain in-game artifacts indestructible.
Though the game’s launch was rocky, Assassin’s Creed Shadows emerges as a significant addition to the franchise, weaving together historical intrigue and immersive storytelling within its beautifully recreated world. The dual perspectives of Naoe and Yasuke invite players to explore complementary playstyles while traversing through evocative landscapes. As the game continues to captivate audiences, it stands as a testament to Ubisoft Quebec’s dedication to crafting a compelling narrative set against the backdrop of feudal Japan.
