Assassin's Creed Shadows is a sprawling new installment in Ubisoft's long-running franchise. Whether you're approaching Shadows as your first Assassin's Creed experience or returning to the series, here's what you should know.
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Does Assassin's Creed Shadows Connect With Previous AC Games?
The Assassin's Creed timeline spans continents and centuries, with most entries maintaining standalone narratives since Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag.
Set in 16th-century Japan, Shadows bears no direct connection to earlier titles like Brotherhood or Revelations, which explored Renaissance Europe. The significant geographical and chronological separation ensures a fresh narrative experience.
Is There a Modern-Day Story in Assassin's Creed Shadows?
While early Assassin's Creed games featured prominent modern-day arcs (notably Desmond Miles' storyline), recent entries have struggled maintaining this narrative thread. Shadows introduces a brand-new contemporary storyline, making prior knowledge unnecessary.
The modern segments remain mysterious and sparingly used, allowing players to focus on the feudal Japanese setting.
Related: Assassin's Creed Shadows Trophy List (All 55 Trophies)
How Connected Is Assassin's Creed Shadows to the Series?
Shadows stands as an independent adventure while incorporating series staples like the Animus, Brotherhood, and Templars - though these connections unfold gradually. Ubisoft includes subtle nods and iconography for long-time fans without overwhelming newcomers.
The game successfully balances franchise continuity with accessibility, allowing all players to immerse themselves in feudal Japan's rich setting before deeper narrative ties emerge.
Assassin's Creed Shadows is available now on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.
