Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed Shadows production team publicly apologised to Japanese fans for advertising materials that “caused concern” in society. In a four-page response sent on X/Twitter in English and Japanese, the team pointed out that Shadows is a work of “compelling, historical fiction set in Feudal Japan” rather than an accurate depiction of history.

The team sincerely regretted “some elements in our promotional materials having caused concern within the Japanese community”.Although details were not disclosed, the apology is most likely for the illegal use of the flag design of a modern Japanese re-enactment group in the concept artwork of the game.

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Ubisoft underlined that the Assassin’s Creed games always employ imaginative license and fantasy elements to produce exciting encounters. This is illustrated with the protagonist of the game, Yasuke, a Black samurai from antiquity. The crew admitted their differences in Yasuke’s presentation as a warrior since there was little historical proof supporting his genuine purpose.

The last comment was to inspire supporters to keep offering polite comments as the game moves towards its November 2024 publication. As stated in the disclaimer before every game in the series, Ubisoft emphasised that Assassin’s Creed Shadows is a work of fiction influenced by history.

Controversy around shadows of Assassin’s Creed heroes

The two playable heroes of Assassin’s Creed Shadows—Yasuke and Naoe—have generated discussion and criticism in many spheres. Some contend that Yasuke’s African background belies his sole playable samurai status, distorting Japanese history.

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Ubisoft has maintained Yasuke’s involvement, though, citing his “unique and mysterious life made him an ideal candidate to tell an Assassin’s Creed story” set in feudal Japan. The team also underlined Naoe, a Japanese shinobi, as a similarly vital protagonist with original gameplay.

Though it’s difficult to distinguish between honest criticism and those using the challenges as a justification to criticise the game, fans have voiced concerns over its marketing and characters. As the creation continues, Ubisoft has reiterated that Assassin’s Creed Shadows is a work of fiction and invited polite remarks.