*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is a monumental addition to the expansive *Assassin’s Creed* franchise, renowned for its rich history and immersive storytelling. Whether you're diving into the series for the first time with *Shadows* or returning after a hiatus, here's what you need to know to enhance your gaming experience.
Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Overlap With Other AC Games? Answered
The *Assassin’s Creed* timeline spans continents and epochs, with each installment typically offering a standalone narrative and setting, particularly post-*Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag*. *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* transports players to 16th-century Japan, a setting distinct from the early 1500s locales of *Brotherhood* and *Revelations* in Italy and Constantinople. Given the significant temporal and geographical separation, *Shadows* does not directly connect with these or other titles in the series.
Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Have a Modern-Day Story? Answered
In the franchise's early years on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, *Assassin’s Creed* wove a modern-day narrative thread through its games, with Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North, as a central figure. However, subsequent titles have found it challenging to maintain this modern-day storyline's momentum. *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* introduces a fresh modern-day narrative, aiming to re-engage fans without requiring familiarity with past modern-day plots. While intriguing, these modern-day elements remain sparse and enigmatic within *Shadows*.
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 to any previous game, Ubisoft ensures a nod to the series' legacy. The game is peppered with Easter eggs, familiar imagery, and iconic elements that seasoned fans will appreciate. However, these references are crafted in a way that doesn’t alienate newcomers. Core elements like the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars are woven into *Shadows*, yet their significance unfolds 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 now available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, inviting players to explore its rich narrative and stunning setting.
