Summary
- Assassin’s Creed Shadows appears to be well-received in Japan.
- People peddling faux outrage before the game’s release were certain that Japanese gamers detested Shadows.
- Ubisoft is extremely pleased with the commercial performance of Shadows thus far.
Before its release, Assassin’s Creed Shadows faced several controversies over its perception in Japan. Shrine officials decried the game because players could destroy shrine furniture (which has since been patched). Game director Jonathan Dumont said at a preview event that he would listen to all warranted criticism from Japanese fans. Finally, legendary Japanese developer Hideki Kamiya expressed support for Ubisoft, saying the majority of “normal people” don’t participate in faux outrage.
There is still a perception among fans that Japanese people disapprove of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, prompting Kazuma Hashimoto over at Polygon to translate some Japanese-language reviews from major domestic outlets. The reception is broadly positive, with several reviewers praising Ubisoft’s recreation of Japan.
Worldwide Hit
The outlet Gamer (our evil twin?) was very impressed with the environments of Shadows, saying, “Towns feel full of life, with the mountain scenery so lush with nature that it feels as if you really are travelling through Japan during the Warring States period.” 4gamer describes the changing of the seasons in Shadows as “nostalgic”, reminding them of their childhood.
There is particular praise for Naoe and Yasuke. Game Watch writes “Naoe embodies the spirit of an Assassin’s Creed protagonist, and that she seems human due to her emotional immaturity.” There’s less enthusiasm for Yasuke because his depiction as a “perfect samurai” leaves the character without flaws to relate to.
None of the reviewers dispute Yasuke’s inclusion or his status as a samurai, despite a loud minority of dissenters arguing the opposite before the game’s release.
There are plaudits for the relationship between the two protagonists, the portrayal of certain historical figures like Oda Nobunaga and the writing in general. Playing as Naoe was a highlight, as her stealth-focused design was perfectly suited to a historical ninja.
It would appear that Shadows has been well-received in Japan. Ubisoft appears exceedingly pleased with the release, saying Shadows sets a “new bar” for the series once you discount the “perfect storm” that the series’ most successful entry Valhalla launched under. Shadows is on track to become the second most successful Assassin’s Creed ever.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows
- Released
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March 20, 2025
- ESRB
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Mature 17+ // Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Language