Summary
- Assassin's Creed Shadows introduces dual protagonists with unique specialties for specific missions and combat.
- Yasuke, an African samurai in the game, has faced historical validity challenges, but the franchise prioritizes inspiration over realism.
- A DLC focused on realism could help ease the backlash and offer a unique take on the franchise.
Assassin's Creed Shadows hasn't even been released yet, but that hasn't stopped the game from being controversial. There have been many entries in the Assassin's Creed franchise, but Assassin's Creed Shadows features the game's first dual protagonists who have their own specialties suited for specific missions and combat. Yasuke is a hulking samurai who serves as a Tank, while Naoe takes on the role of stealth.
The design and stories of both characters look compelling, but that hasn't stopped controversy brewing about Yasuke being an African samurai. Based on a real-life historical figure, some outspoken individuals have challenged the historical validity of Yasuke. However, since the Assassin's Creed franchise is merely inspired by history and has never boasted realism, Yasuke is an exciting addition whether real or not. There have been plenty of moments where Assassin's Creed has gone wild with concepts, especially with its DLC, but the inclusion of Yasuke isn't exactly one of them. With online petitions asking for the cancelation of Shadows, it may be too late to satisfy some players, but a solid DLC focused on realism could possibly help ease this criticism.
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Assassin's Creed Shadows Grounding the Franchise's Wild DLC History
A Franchise Steeped in Historical Fiction
There have been many moments from the Assassin's Creed series that can leave players scratching their heads. Some of the wildest expansions to enter the franchise's canon are Assassin's Creed 3's The Tyranny of King Washington and Valhalla's Dawn of Ragnarok. Both DLCs received mixed reviews overall, and that's partially because of how outlandish they can be.
The main plot of The Tyranny of King Washington revolves around a vision that protagonist Ratonhnhaké:ton has of George Washington taking control of the United States of America and becoming a tyrant. Although a fun DLC, thanks to its unique story, it's not ideal for those who crave more historical accuracy. The other DLC of note is Dawn of Ragnarok, Valhalla's DLC centered around the popular Norse myth. Dawn of Ragnarok's feedback was more of a mixed bag than The Tyranny of King Washington, but it's still a unique take on mythology. However, DLCs like this aren't everyone's cup of tea, and Shadows offering a more realistic DLC could be a good change of pace.
Assassin's Creed Shadows Squashing Criticism With a More Realistic DLC
The Tyranny of King Washington and Dawn of Ragnarok are of note because they are both standout expansions that don't exactly embrace following historical events. Despite the Assassin's Creed franchise being historical fiction, there are some who prefer the more realistic aspects of the game. If Shadows went the route of many other games in the franchise and did another wacky DLC concept, it could run the risk of angering some fans again.
Pre-order sales for Assassin's Creed Shadows are strong, despite the game's divisive nature.
An expansion that put the spotlight on realism could be used as a salve to heal the criticism received since the announcement of AC Shadows. One of the many aspects that has kept the Assassin's Creed games so popular through the years, is the balance between history and bold fictional storylines. Creating a DLC with outlandish concepts, like a tyranny-obsessed George Washington, isn't necessary for Shadows, though. Going wild with expansion storylines doesn't always stick the landing, and due to the feedback of Shadows, Ubisoft may be better off keeping any potential DLC from ruffling some feathers as well.
Controversy aside, AC Shadows is aiming to be a unique take on the long-running franchise. Even though changes can be divisive, Ubisoft trying new things is compelling, because it could signal an all-new era for the Assassin's Creed games. Information surrounding the actual historical figure of Yasuke may be mysterious, but as long as the character is cool, it shouldn't even matter. However, a grounded DLC could be the key to satisfying some of the backlash.
Assassin's Creed Shadows
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 81 /100 Critics Rec: 82%
- Released
- March 20, 2025
- ESRB
- Mature 17+ // Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Language
- Developer(s)
- Ubisoft Quebec
- Publisher(s)
- Ubisoft
WHERE TO PLAY
Experience an epic historical action-adventure story set in feudal Japan! Become a lethal shinobi Assassin and a powerful legendary samurai as you explore a beautiful open world in a time of chaos. Switch seamlessly between two unlikely allies as you discover their common destiny. Master complementary playstyles, create your shinobi league, customize your hideout, and usher in a new era for Japan.
• Explore the captivating open world of feudal Japan, from spectacular castle towns and bustling ports to peaceful shrines and war-ravaged landscapes. Adventure through unpredictable weather, changing seasons, and reactive environments.
• Become Naoe, a shinobi Assassin, and Yasuke, a legendary samurai, as you experience their riveting stories and master their complementary playstyles. As Naoe, use stealth to avoid detection and agility to confound your enemies. As Yasuke, strike your foes with lethal precision and power. Unlock new skills, gear, and progression independently for each character.
• Make information your weapon as you explore the world, and build your own network of spies to be your eyes and ears across locations to hunt down your next target. Along the way, recruit new allies with unique abilities to help accomplish your missions.
• Create a fully customizable hideout for your growing shinobi league as you train your crew, craft new gear, interact with key characters, and choose your base’s layout, decorations, and accessories.
- Franchise
- Assassin's Creed
- Platform(s)
- PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC
