*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is an expansive addition to the iconic *Assassin’s Creed* franchise, known for its deep historical narratives and thrilling gameplay. Whether you're diving into the series for the first time or returning after a hiatus, here's everything you need to know about *Shadows*.
Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Overlap With Other AC Games? Answered
The *Assassin’s Creed* timeline is a vast tapestry, weaving through various continents and epochs. Most games within the series offer standalone narratives, particularly following *Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag*. *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* transports players to 16th-century Japan, a period distinct from the settings of *Brotherhood* and *Revelations*, which were set in the early 1500s in Italy and Constantinople. Due to the significant differences in time and location, *Shadows* does not directly connect to these earlier titles.
Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Have a Modern-Day Story? Answered
In its early years on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, the *Assassin’s Creed* series featured a continuous modern-day storyline, famously involving Nolan North's character, Desmond Miles. However, subsequent games have struggled to maintain the momentum of these modern-day plots. *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* introduces a fresh modern-day narrative, aiming to re-engage fans without the baggage of previous modern-day storylines. While these modern elements are sparse and shrouded in mystery, they offer a new beginning for 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?
Although *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* isn't a direct sequel, Ubisoft maintains continuity with the series through Easter eggs, nods, and familiar iconography, which will thrill long-time fans. However, these connections are subtle enough not to overwhelm newcomers. *Shadows* can be enjoyed as a standalone adventure, yet it integrates key elements from the broader series like the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars. These elements are woven into the narrative in a way that allows both new and returning players to explore Feudal Japan without needing prior knowledge of the series' extensive history.
*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is now available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, inviting players to immerse themselves in its rich world and compelling story.
