*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is a sprawling addition to a beloved franchise with a rich history. Whether you're stepping into the world of *Assassin’s Creed* for the first time with *Shadows* or returning after a break, here's what you need to know to dive in.
Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Overlap With Other AC Games? Answered
Image via Xbox Wire. The Assassin’s Creed series has journeyed across continents and eras, with each game typically standing on its own in terms of story and setting, particularly since Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows transports players to 16th-century Japan, a period not closely explored by the franchise before. The nearest in time would be Brotherhood and Revelations, set in early 16th-century Italy and Constantinople, respectively. Given the vast differences in location and time, Shadows does not connect directly with these games.
Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Have a Modern-Day Story? Answered
The Assassin’s Creed saga initially intertwined its historical adventures with a compelling modern-day narrative, notably featuring Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North, during the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 era. However, subsequent modern-day stories have struggled to maintain the same engagement.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces a fresh modern-day storyline, aiming to rekindle fans' interest. You won't need to catch up on previous modern-day plots to enjoy Shadows. The modern-day elements are subtle and mysterious, ensuring they complement rather than overshadow the main historical setting.
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. Although Assassin’s Creed Shadows isn't a direct sequel, it doesn't ignore the franchise's legacy. The game includes Easter eggs, nods, and familiar iconography that will delight long-time fans without overwhelming newcomers.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows can be fully enjoyed as a standalone adventure. Key elements such as the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars are woven into the narrative, yet these connections unfold gradually. This allows both new and returning players ample time to immerse themselves in the world of Feudal Japan without needing to know the broader series' backstory.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is available now on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.
