Yes, You Can Play Assassin’s Creed Shadows Without Prior AC Experience

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is a monumental entry in the expansive Assassin’s Creed franchise, set against the backdrop of 16th-century Japan. Whether you're diving into the series for the first time or revisiting after a hiatus, here’s what you need to know before embarking on this journey.

Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Overlap With Other AC Games?

The Assassin’s Creed timeline spans continents and centuries, with each title often standing alone in terms of narrative and setting. Since Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, most games have maintained this independence. Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set in 16th-century Japan, a period distant from previous titles like Brotherhood and Revelations, which focused on Italy and Constantinople in the early 1500s. Due to its geographical and temporal separation, there are no overlapping storylines or connections to other games in the series.

Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Have a Modern-Day Story?

In the early days of the Assassin’s Creed series, modern-day narratives connected various installments, featuring characters like Desmond Miles. However, recent entries have struggled to maintain this continuity. Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces a fresh modern-day storyline, designed to captivate both newcomers and seasoned players alike. Rest assured, you won’t need to delve into the complex modern-era plots from earlier games. Instead, Shadows keeps its modern-day elements subtle and intriguing, leaving room for exploration and discovery.

Is Assassin’s Creed Shadows Connected to the Series?

While Assassin’s Creed Shadows isn’t a direct sequel to any specific title, Ubisoft hasn’t ignored the franchise’s rich history. Fans will notice clever Easter eggs, familiar imagery, and iconic symbols woven throughout the game, adding depth for those who have followed the series. However, these references won’t alienate newcomers, as the core story remains accessible to all.

Factions such as the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars are integral to Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Their presence unfolds gradually, allowing both new and returning players ample time to immerse themselves in Feudal Japan without feeling overwhelmed by prior lore. These connections subtly enhance the experience, rewarding attentive players while maintaining a self-contained narrative.

Key Takeaways

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is a standalone adventure that fits seamlessly within the broader Assassin’s Creed universe. Its historical setting, combined with innovative storytelling, makes it an engaging choice for fans and newcomers alike. Available now on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, this title invites you to explore the timeless conflict between Assassins and Templars in a breathtaking new chapter.

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