*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is a monumental addition to the expansive *Assassin’s Creed* franchise, known for its rich historical narratives and immersive gameplay. Whether you're diving into the series for the first time with *Shadows* or returning after a hiatus, here's everything you need to know to get started.
Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Overlap With Other AC Games? Answered
Image via Xbox Wire. The Assassin’s Creed timeline spans continents and centuries, with each game typically offering a standalone experience, particularly since Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows transports players to 16th-century Japan, a setting far removed from the early 1500s Italy and Constantinople explored in Brotherhood and Revelations. Given the significant temporal and geographical distance, Shadows does not directly connect to these earlier titles.
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 franchise featured a compelling modern-day storyline, prominently featuring Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North. However, subsequent games have struggled to maintain the momentum of these modern narratives.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces a fresh modern-day storyline, aiming to re-engage fans. You don't need to be familiar with the previous modern-day plots to enjoy Shadows. The modern-day elements in Shadows are sparse and shrouded in mystery, adding an intriguing layer to the game without overwhelming the main historical narrative.
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. While Assassin’s Creed Shadows isn't a direct sequel to any specific game, Ubisoft has woven in subtle nods and Easter eggs that pay homage to the franchise's history. These elements are designed to delight long-time fans without alienating newcomers.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows can be enjoyed as a standalone adventure, yet it includes key elements from the series such as the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars. These connections unfold gradually, allowing both new and returning players ample time to immerse themselves in the world of Feudal Japan without needing prior knowledge of the series.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is available now on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.
