Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba addressed parliamentary questions today regarding concerns about Ubisoft's upcoming game Assassin's Creed Shadows. While initial reports suggested harsh criticism, the actual discussion was more measured.
Government Response to Cultural Concerns
During a budgetary committee meeting, politician Hiroyuki Kada raised issues about the game's portrayal of Japanese shrines, sparking a broader discussion about cultural representation in media. Kada expressed concern that in-game destruction of sacred sites might encourage disrespectful behavior among visitors to Japan.
Prime Minister Ishiba responded cautiously, stating: "The legal aspects of this matter require consultation between the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs." He emphasized Japan's cultural sensitivity while avoiding direct criticism of the game itself.
Ubisoft's Proactive Responses
Prior to this governmental discussion, Ubisoft had already taken multiple steps to address concerns from Japanese communities:
- Issued apologies for historical inaccuracies in promotional materials
- Removed unlicensed imagery of Japanese cultural symbols
- Collaborated with historical consultants to improve representation
- Prepared a day-one patch adjusting shrine depictions
The planned update reportedly will make shrine interiors indestructible and reduce violent depictions in sacred spaces. These changes appear to demonstrate Ubisoft's sensitivity to Japanese cultural concerns, though the publisher hasn't officially confirmed these adjustments outside Japan.
Broader Context
This discussion occurs amid Japan's record tourism resurgence and debates about "over-tourism" impacts. Kada connected his game concerns to broader worries about tourist behavior and cultural preservation.
Historically, Japan has maintained relatively liberal policies regarding creative expression. Legal experts suggest Ubisoft's artistic portrayal likely falls within constitutional protections, despite the political discussion.
Commercial Stakes for Ubisoft
The controversy comes at a critical time for Ubisoft, following recent commercial disappointments including Star Wars Outlaws. The publisher is banking on Assassin's Creed Shadows' success after multiple delays in its development cycle.
IGN's review scored the game 8/10, praising its refined open-world systems while acknowledging the ongoing debate about its cultural representations.
