Ubisoft introduces new characters and gameplay dynamics in the latest Assassin’s Creed instalment set in feudal Japan

Ubisoft has unveiled the first cinematic trailer for Assassin’s Creed Shadows, offering an in-depth look at the game’s dual protagonists and their distinct play styles. Set to release on November 15th for PC, Mac, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S, the game will feature Naoe, a female shinobi, and Yasuke, a historical samurai figure, as central characters.

The trailer begins with Naoe, depicted as a skilled and agile shinobi, encountering Yasuke, who is portrayed as a formidable samurai. Initially adversaries, the two characters eventually find common ground, suggesting an alliance with the Assassins. By the end of the trailer, Naoe is seen wielding the iconic Hidden Blade, signifying her role within the Assassin’s Creed universe.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows promises to deliver a rich narrative experience, blending historical facts with engaging storytelling. “With our dual protagonists, we have two fantasies: the samurai and the shinobi,” explained game director Charles Benoit. “We want the player to experience both, but we can’t squeeze both into one character because the samurai and shinobi came from different social classes, so we can’t mix them together.”

Associate narrative director Brooke Davies highlighted the significance of Yasuke’s character. Arriving in Japan in 1579, Yasuke’s interactions with historical figures like Oda Nobunaga and the Portuguese Jesuits provide a compelling backdrop for the game’s storyline. “Yasuke’s perspective as a foreigner discovering Japan is also useful, as a way to explain the country’s rules and customs to players,” Davies noted.

The game’s setting, during Japan’s tumultuous path to unification, offers a dynamic and evolving open world. Players can explore spectacular castle towns, bustling ports, peaceful shrines, and pastoral landscapes that change with the seasons and weather conditions. Ubisoft emphasizes the importance of exploration, with a spies network to uncover new areas and targets, allies to assist in missions, and a customizable hideout for training squads.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows will also introduce a new content hub called Assassin’s Creed Infinity, which will launch alongside the game. Infinity will serve as a launcher for Assassin’s Creed games and a container for the franchise’s overarching metastory. Details on Infinity were not provided in this reveal, but Ubisoft has previously discussed its ambitious plans for the platform.

Gameplay mechanics will reflect the dual protagonists’ distinct styles. Yasuke, the combat-heavy samurai, and Naoe, the stealth-focused shinobi, will offer varied gameplay experiences. Naoe, specifically, will be the only character to wield the Hidden Blade, aligning with the Assassin’s Creed tradition of stealth and precision.

Fans eagerly anticipating Assassin’s Creed Shadows can expect a detailed gameplay reveal next month, as Ubisoft continues to build excitement for what promises to be a landmark entry in the series.

Analysis

The introduction of Assassin’s Creed Shadows with dual protagonists Naoe and Yasuke marks a significant evolution in the Assassin’s Creed franchise. This instalment not only expands the narrative depth but also enhances gameplay diversity, catering to a broader audience with different play style preferences.

From a cultural perspective, setting the game in feudal Japan during a pivotal historical period adds a rich layer of authenticity and educational value. The inclusion of real historical figures and events provides players with a deeper understanding of Japanese history and culture, making the game both entertaining and informative.

Economically, Assassin’s Creed Shadows is positioned to attract a wide range of players, including long-time fans of the series and new players drawn by the unique setting and dual protagonists. The game’s release on multiple platforms, including PC, Mac, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S, ensures broad market penetration. The early access for Ubisoft+ subscribers and those purchasing the collector’s edition is a strategic move to boost pre-orders and subscription rates.

Sociologically, the dual protagonist approach addresses the growing demand for diverse and inclusive gaming experiences. By featuring a female shinobi and a historically significant African samurai, the game promotes representation and inclusivity. This approach resonates with a diverse player base and aligns with broader industry trends toward more inclusive storytelling.

Politically, Ubisoft’s decision to develop a game with dual protagonists from different cultural and social backgrounds reflects a commitment to diversity and inclusion. This move can positively impact the company’s reputation and align with contemporary social values, enhancing its brand image.

From a gender perspective, the inclusion of Naoe as a female protagonist is significant. It continues the trend of strong female characters in gaming, offering representation and empowering female players. Naoe’s character, rooted in the rich tradition of the shinobi, provides a fresh and engaging perspective within the Assassin’s Creed universe.

Race and minority perspectives are crucial in this context. Yasuke’s character, an African samurai in Japan, highlights an often-overlooked historical figure, bringing attention to the diverse and interconnected history of different cultures. This inclusion promotes awareness and appreciation of minority histories and contributions, fostering a more inclusive narrative.

Theoretically, the dual protagonist structure can be analyzed through the lens of narrative theory and player agency. By offering two distinct characters with unique abilities and story arcs, Assassin’s Creed Shadows enhances player engagement and immersion. This structure allows players to experience the story from multiple perspectives, enriching the overall narrative experience.

Overall, Assassin’s Creed Shadows represents a bold and innovative addition to the Assassin’s Creed franchise. Its dual protagonists, rich historical setting, and inclusive approach set a new standard for the series, promising an engaging and immersive experience for players.