*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 what you should know to dive right in.
Does Assassin's Creed Shadows Overlap With Other AC Games? Answered
Image via Xbox Wire. The Assassin's Creed series has journeyed through various continents and epochs, crafting a tapestry of standalone stories, particularly since Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag.
Assassin's Creed Shadows transports players to 16th-century Japan, a setting distinct from the earlier titles like Brotherhood and Revelations, which were set in the early 1500s in Italy and Constantinople, respectively. Given the significant differences in both location and era, Shadows does not directly connect to these earlier games.
Does Assassin's Creed Shadows Have a Modern-Day Story? Answered
In the early days of the Assassin's Creed series, during the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 era, the games featured a compelling modern-day narrative with characters like Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North. Over time, these modern-day stories have struggled to maintain their momentum.
Assassin's Creed Shadows introduces a fresh modern-day storyline, aiming to re-engage fans without relying on previous narratives. While the modern-day elements are sparse and enigmatic, they won't burden you with prior knowledge from the series.
Related: Assassin’s Creed Shadows Trophy List (All 55 Trophies)
Is Assassin's Creed Shadows Connected to the Series and Does it Matter If You've Played It Before?
Naoe receives her Hidden Blade in Assassin's Creed Shadows, Image via Ubisoft. Although Assassin's Creed Shadows isn't a direct sequel, Ubisoft has woven in subtle nods, Easter eggs, and iconic imagery that long-time fans will appreciate. These elements are designed to enhance the experience without overwhelming newcomers.
While Shadows can be enjoyed as a standalone adventure, it does feature key elements from the broader Assassin's Creed universe, such as the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars. These connections are introduced gradually, allowing both new and returning players ample time to immerse themselves in the feudal Japan setting without needing to catch up on previous games.
Assassin's Creed Shadows is available now on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.
