Assassin’s Creed Shadows Faces Backlash Over Historical Accuracy and Cultural Sensitivity

Ubisoft’s upcoming game, set to release on March 20, has drawn criticism for its portrayal of Yasuke, shrine destruction gameplay, and design choices in its Japanese setting.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows, releasing March 20, features Yasuke, an African samurai in feudal Japan, sparking debates over historical accuracy and cultural representation.
Critics, including historians, argue that Yasuke’s portrayal as a legendary samurai exaggerates his historical role as a bodyguard and entertainer under Oda Nobunaga.
A controversial gameplay element showing shrine destruction has led to backlash from Japanese cultural officials, who claim Ubisoft did not seek permission for the shrine's inclusion.
Fans have expressed concerns about the game’s design, particularly the lack of verticality in Kyoto, which could diminish the series’ iconic parkour gameplay.
Despite the controversy, Ubisoft reports strong pre-order numbers and positive early impressions, with hopes the game will revitalize the Assassin’s Creed franchise.