Assassin’s Creed Shadows is a monumental addition to the expansive Assassin’s Creed franchise, known for its rich historical narratives and engaging gameplay. Whether you're diving into Shadows as your first foray into the series or returning after a hiatus, here's a comprehensive guide to get you up to speed.
Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Overlap With Other AC Games? Answered
The Assassin’s Creed timeline spans continents and centuries, featuring largely standalone stories and settings, particularly since Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag. Assassin’s Creed Shadows transports players to 16th-century Japan, a setting distinct from other entries in the series. The closest in time and space are Brotherhood and Revelations, set in early 16th-century Italy and Constantinople, respectively. However, due to the significant temporal and geographical distances, Shadows does not overlap with these games.
Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Have a Modern-Day Story? Answered
In its early years, the Assassin’s Creed series intertwined its historical adventures with a modern-day narrative, prominently featuring Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North. Over time, these modern-day stories have faced challenges in maintaining coherence and engagement.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces a fresh modern-day storyline, designed to re-engage fans without requiring knowledge of previous modern-day arcs. While these modern-day segments are sparse and shrouded in mystery, they offer a new angle to the series without burdening newcomers with past complexities.
Is Assassin’s Creed Shadows Connected to the Series and Does it Matter If You’ve Played It Before?
Although Assassin’s Creed Shadows is not a direct sequel, it does pay homage to the broader Assassin’s Creed universe. Ubisoft incorporates Easter eggs, nods, and iconic elements from the franchise, enhancing the experience for long-time fans without overwhelming newcomers.
Shadows can be enjoyed as a standalone adventure, yet it includes core elements of the series such as the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templar Order. These connections are woven into the narrative gradually, allowing both new and returning players to immerse themselves in the world of Feudal Japan without needing prior knowledge of the series.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is now available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, inviting players to explore its unique blend of history and intrigue.
