Assassin's Creed Shadows
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UBISOFT
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9/27/2024
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Update March 19, 2025, Japan’s House of Councillors at the bottom
Update "shrines" at the bottom - 2/26/2025
Assassin’s Creed Shadows, a highly anticipated game in the Assassin’s Creed series, has been embroiled in several controversies. The game takes place in feudal Japan, a time and place that's been highly anticipated for years by gamers who love the Assassins Creed series.
One of the first controversy of AC Shadows was Yasuke.
A lot of defenders immediately went into "You are racist!" mode when the truth had little to do with racism. First, Assassin's Creed has never made the protagonist a playable char. That's just how it always worked. You interacted with historical characters in a historically accurate time period.
Players initially where complaining about playing a historical char. It has always been about playing in a historically accurate time with a fictional protagonist. but the defenders wanted to act like is was a push against DEI because Yasuke was black. In doing so they actually forced it to become a gripe about pushing DEI into a game that was about the Japanese history and people. Gamers in general are not dumb people, no matter how much people want to push that narrative.
Yasukie was heavily researched by 10's of thousands of gamers and proven to have never have actually been a samurai. While researching is was discovered people where actively editing and modifying Wikipedia to reflect the claims that Yasuke was 100% a samurai and "trust me bro" It still reflects that to this day, revisionist histories. Many Japanese historians state there is only 3 pages of history on him. Yasuke served Japanese daimyō Oda Nobunaga one of the most important feudal lords in Japanese history between 1581 and 1582.
Gamers started pouring over the history of Japan and researching Yasukie.
Accusations that the Japanise Historian UBIsoft used, Thomas Lockley, lied about most everything and was apparently accused of being the one editing the wikiepedia to reflect his historical "fiction":
Before long the people of Japan started to hear about the discourse and started chiming in as well:
Some fans have criticized the game’s depiction of Japanese culture, claiming that the buildings resemble Chinese architecture rather than Japanese. Additional comments included some concept art errors but concept art is well... concept art.
A lot of defenders immediately went into "You are racist!" mode when the truth had little to do with racism. First, Assassin's Creed has never made the protagonist a playable char. That's just how it always worked. You interacted with historical characters in a historically accurate time period.
Players initially where complaining about playing a historical char. It has always been about playing in a historically accurate time with a fictional protagonist. but the defenders wanted to act like is was a push against DEI because Yasuke was black. In doing so they actually forced it to become a gripe about pushing DEI into a game that was about the Japanese history and people. Gamers in general are not dumb people, no matter how much people want to push that narrative.
Yasukie was heavily researched by 10's of thousands of gamers and proven to have never have actually been a samurai. While researching is was discovered people where actively editing and modifying Wikipedia to reflect the claims that Yasuke was 100% a samurai and "trust me bro" It still reflects that to this day, revisionist histories. Many Japanese historians state there is only 3 pages of history on him. Yasuke served Japanese daimyō Oda Nobunaga one of the most important feudal lords in Japanese history between 1581 and 1582.
Gamers started pouring over the history of Japan and researching Yasukie.
Accusations that the Japanise Historian UBIsoft used, Thomas Lockley, lied about most everything and was apparently accused of being the one editing the wikiepedia to reflect his historical "fiction":
Before long the people of Japan started to hear about the discourse and started chiming in as well:
Some fans have criticized the game’s depiction of Japanese culture, claiming that the buildings resemble Chinese architecture rather than Japanese. Additional comments included some concept art errors but concept art is well... concept art.
Assassin's Creed Shadows Stolen Art
A Japanese historical re-enactment group, Sekigahara Teppotai, discovered that Ubisoft had used their custom banner in Assassin’s Creed: Shadows concept art without permission. The flag was featured in two pieces of concept art, which were later removed from official channels.
Ubisoft apologized to the group and agreed to stop using the flag in promotional materials, except for its inclusion in the Collector’s Edition art book. Despite the apology and compromise, Ubisoft refused to remove the stolen artwork from the Collector’s Edition art book, citing that the files had already been deleted.
A Japanese historical re-enactment group, Sekigahara Teppotai, discovered that Ubisoft had used their custom banner in Assassin’s Creed: Shadows concept art without permission. The flag was featured in two pieces of concept art, which were later removed from official channels.
Ubisoft apologized to the group and agreed to stop using the flag in promotional materials, except for its inclusion in the Collector’s Edition art book. Despite the apology and compromise, Ubisoft refused to remove the stolen artwork from the Collector’s Edition art book, citing that the files had already been deleted.
『アサシン クリード シャドウズ』に関するお知らせ
— Ubisoft Japan (@UBISOFT_JAPAN) July 8, 2024
公開済であるコンセプトアート2点に、関ケ原古戦場おもてなし連合「関ケ原鉄砲隊」の旗が無断で使用されているとのご指摘を受けております。
団体様には謝罪の機会を頂戴し、受け入れていただきました。…
Stealing Zoro’s sword from the popular anime and manga series One Piece.
Ubisoft was also accused of stealing Zoro’s sword from the popular anime and manga series One Piece for a pop-up display at Japan Expo. The sword was mistakenly attributed to Yasuke, a protagonist in Assassin’s Creed: Shadows.
Ubisoft was also accused of stealing Zoro’s sword from the popular anime and manga series One Piece for a pop-up display at Japan Expo. The sword was mistakenly attributed to Yasuke, a protagonist in Assassin’s Creed: Shadows.
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Assassin’s Creed Shadows caused a significant backlash emerged in Japan, with many people expressing discontent over the game’s historical inaccuracies and cultural misrepresentations. The controversy centered around the game’s depiction of feudal Japan, with critics arguing that Ubisoft failed to accurately portray the country’s architecture, mannerisms, and cultural practices.
Once again the defenders tried to call this out as a lie, that westerners where using Google translate to push anti DEI rhetoric and once again they where wrong. In fact the public outcry, Japanese politician Satoshi Hamada called for an investigation into the game’s inaccuracies, citing concerns over the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and a lack of research by Ubisoft. While the Japanese government has not yet officially launch an investigation, Hamada’s criticism sparked a national conversation about the game’s historical inaccuracies.
Ubisoft subsequently apologized in Japanese for causing concern among Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ Japanese fans, stating that the game was continually evolving until launch to perfect inaccuracies like flags and architecture.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding Assassin’s Creed Shadows in Japan serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural sensitivity and historical accuracy in game development. While Ubisoft apologized for the inaccuracies, the incident highlights the need for greater attention to detail and cultural awareness in the creation of historical fiction games.
Once again the defenders tried to call this out as a lie, that westerners where using Google translate to push anti DEI rhetoric and once again they where wrong. In fact the public outcry, Japanese politician Satoshi Hamada called for an investigation into the game’s inaccuracies, citing concerns over the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and a lack of research by Ubisoft. While the Japanese government has not yet officially launch an investigation, Hamada’s criticism sparked a national conversation about the game’s historical inaccuracies.
Ubisoft subsequently apologized in Japanese for causing concern among Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ Japanese fans, stating that the game was continually evolving until launch to perfect inaccuracies like flags and architecture.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding Assassin’s Creed Shadows in Japan serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural sensitivity and historical accuracy in game development. While Ubisoft apologized for the inaccuracies, the incident highlights the need for greater attention to detail and cultural awareness in the creation of historical fiction games.
There is one last screwup for the road.
The One leg Torii. I am going to go against the grain on this as it is likely just another screw up but not as big of one that people are making it out to be.
The One leg Torii. I am going to go against the grain on this as it is likely just another screw up but not as big of one that people are making it out to be.
A lot of people are claiming that this is The Sanno Shrine, located in Nagasaki, Japan. It is the one-legged torii gate. Noted for still standing after the atomic bombing on August 9, 1945.
That makes this a pretty serious laps of judgment if true. I do not believe this to be the case. I think somebody googled Torii and found this lesser known one.
I think it is more likely this Torii. In their research they found it and thought that it looks cool. I do not know where it is and there are very few images I can find that say anything about it. I don't even know its location. But... it looks like what they made.
This is the Maaki Torii (間あき鳥居) The only information I did find states that it is a very unique torii gate, which is divided into two and that you can open up your fortune as the space overhead is open.
If you know more feel free to email me @ dontexpectareply@gamergate2.org LOL Yes the email address is real.
This is the Maaki Torii (間あき鳥居) The only information I did find states that it is a very unique torii gate, which is divided into two and that you can open up your fortune as the space overhead is open.
If you know more feel free to email me @ dontexpectareply@gamergate2.org LOL Yes the email address is real.
Update Illegal copies in the wild!
Ubisoft's highly anticipated game, Assassin's Creed Shadows, has encountered a significant leak, with physical copies appearing on online marketplaces such as Facebook Marketplace and Mercari nearly a month ahead of its scheduled release on March 20, 2025.
These leaked copies are believed to be from an older build of the game, lacking the latest polish and updates. This has resulted in a surge of gameplay footage and spoilers spreading across platforms like Twitch and Reddit. Ubisoft has confirmed the authenticity of the leak, urging fans not to share spoilers and emphasizing that the footage does not represent the final quality of the game. The company is actively working to remove unauthorized content from the internet.
This incident, following previous leaks of the game's art book and DLC details, has raised concerns about the security of Ubisoft's supply chain and the potential impact on the excitement surrounding the game's launch. As the gaming community reacts—some are excited while others are trying to avoid spoilers—the leak adds another layer to the ongoing narrative of Assassin's Creed Shadows, a title already facing scrutiny due to delays and high expectations.
Ubisoft's highly anticipated game, Assassin's Creed Shadows, has encountered a significant leak, with physical copies appearing on online marketplaces such as Facebook Marketplace and Mercari nearly a month ahead of its scheduled release on March 20, 2025.
These leaked copies are believed to be from an older build of the game, lacking the latest polish and updates. This has resulted in a surge of gameplay footage and spoilers spreading across platforms like Twitch and Reddit. Ubisoft has confirmed the authenticity of the leak, urging fans not to share spoilers and emphasizing that the footage does not represent the final quality of the game. The company is actively working to remove unauthorized content from the internet.
This incident, following previous leaks of the game's art book and DLC details, has raised concerns about the security of Ubisoft's supply chain and the potential impact on the excitement surrounding the game's launch. As the gaming community reacts—some are excited while others are trying to avoid spoilers—the leak adds another layer to the ongoing narrative of Assassin's Creed Shadows, a title already facing scrutiny due to delays and high expectations.
Update Delays
Assassin’s Creed Shadows has faced two delays in its release date so far. Initially scheduled for November 15, 2024, Ubisoft first postponed the game to February 14, 2025, as announced in late September 2024. This delay was attributed to the need for additional polish, influenced by lessons learned from the disappointing launch of Star Wars Outlaws.
The second delay, announced on January 9, 2025, pushed the release date to March 20, 2025. Ubisoft cited the incorporation of player feedback and a desire to avoid a crowded launch window in February as key reasons for this decision.
As of February 26, 2025, these are the only confirmed delays. Recent statements from Ubisoft indicate confidence in meeting the new March 20 deadline, despite ongoing speculation fueled by development challenges and leaks.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows has faced two delays in its release date so far. Initially scheduled for November 15, 2024, Ubisoft first postponed the game to February 14, 2025, as announced in late September 2024. This delay was attributed to the need for additional polish, influenced by lessons learned from the disappointing launch of Star Wars Outlaws.
The second delay, announced on January 9, 2025, pushed the release date to March 20, 2025. Ubisoft cited the incorporation of player feedback and a desire to avoid a crowded launch window in February as key reasons for this decision.
As of February 26, 2025, these are the only confirmed delays. Recent statements from Ubisoft indicate confidence in meeting the new March 20 deadline, despite ongoing speculation fueled by development challenges and leaks.
**Updates Shrines**
Controversy Erupts Over Ubisoft's Depiction of Japanese Shrine in Upcoming Game
Ubisoft's highly anticipated game, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, is stirring controversy ahead of its release on March 20, 2025. The center of the uproar is the Itate Hyozu Shrine, located in Japan’s Hyogo Prefecture, after gameplay footage surfaced showing the protagonist, Yasuke, destroying a replica of the sacred site, including its altar and revered objects.
Officials from the Itate Hyozu Shrine have publicly condemned this portrayal, revealing that Ubisoft did not consult them prior to its inclusion in the game. They expressed their dismay, stating that had they been approached, they would have refused permission and are now contemplating “appropriate action” against the developers.
The controversy ignited earlier this month when a viral video showcased the destructibility of the shrine, leading to mixed reactions from the gaming community and the public. Critics have voiced concerns about cultural insensitivity, arguing that the depiction disrespects Japanese culture. One commenter on social media lamented, “Japanese culture is consumed but receives no respect,” highlighting their frustration over the optional destruction of such a significant cultural landmark.
On the other side of the debate, some defenders of Ubisoft argue that the *Assassin’s Creed* franchise has a long-standing tradition of blending historical fiction with irreverent gameplay. They suggest that the decision to destroy the shrine ultimately lies with the player and should not be viewed solely through the lens of the game’s narrative.
Shrines in Japan function as more than mere religious landmarks; they are vital to community rituals, seasonal festivals (matsuri), and personal prayers for health and protection. The physical structures, including altars, sacred objects (shintai), and the torii gate—signifying the boundary between the mundane and divine—carry profound symbolic meaning. For many, damaging or disrespecting these elements, even in a virtual environment, is perceived as an affront to the kami (spiritual deities) and the community they represent.
In Shinto belief, maintaining harmony with the kami is crucial, and shrines are carefully maintained to uphold their sanctity. This deep cultural reverence explains why the depiction of the Itate Hyozu Shrine’s destruction in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* has resonated so strongly. It is not merely about a building being destroyed; it touches upon the very essence of a living tradition.
The backlash also reflects a broader sensitivity to the portrayal of sacred spaces in global media. Unlike fictional settings, real shrines like Itate Hyozu are steeped in history and significance. Their casual destruction—whether considered optional gameplay or not—serves as a lightning rod for ongoing debates about respect and representation in the medium of video games.
Controversy Erupts Over Ubisoft's Depiction of Japanese Shrine in Upcoming Game
Ubisoft's highly anticipated game, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, is stirring controversy ahead of its release on March 20, 2025. The center of the uproar is the Itate Hyozu Shrine, located in Japan’s Hyogo Prefecture, after gameplay footage surfaced showing the protagonist, Yasuke, destroying a replica of the sacred site, including its altar and revered objects.
Officials from the Itate Hyozu Shrine have publicly condemned this portrayal, revealing that Ubisoft did not consult them prior to its inclusion in the game. They expressed their dismay, stating that had they been approached, they would have refused permission and are now contemplating “appropriate action” against the developers.
The controversy ignited earlier this month when a viral video showcased the destructibility of the shrine, leading to mixed reactions from the gaming community and the public. Critics have voiced concerns about cultural insensitivity, arguing that the depiction disrespects Japanese culture. One commenter on social media lamented, “Japanese culture is consumed but receives no respect,” highlighting their frustration over the optional destruction of such a significant cultural landmark.
On the other side of the debate, some defenders of Ubisoft argue that the *Assassin’s Creed* franchise has a long-standing tradition of blending historical fiction with irreverent gameplay. They suggest that the decision to destroy the shrine ultimately lies with the player and should not be viewed solely through the lens of the game’s narrative.
Shrines in Japan function as more than mere religious landmarks; they are vital to community rituals, seasonal festivals (matsuri), and personal prayers for health and protection. The physical structures, including altars, sacred objects (shintai), and the torii gate—signifying the boundary between the mundane and divine—carry profound symbolic meaning. For many, damaging or disrespecting these elements, even in a virtual environment, is perceived as an affront to the kami (spiritual deities) and the community they represent.
In Shinto belief, maintaining harmony with the kami is crucial, and shrines are carefully maintained to uphold their sanctity. This deep cultural reverence explains why the depiction of the Itate Hyozu Shrine’s destruction in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* has resonated so strongly. It is not merely about a building being destroyed; it touches upon the very essence of a living tradition.
The backlash also reflects a broader sensitivity to the portrayal of sacred spaces in global media. Unlike fictional settings, real shrines like Itate Hyozu are steeped in history and significance. Their casual destruction—whether considered optional gameplay or not—serves as a lightning rod for ongoing debates about respect and representation in the medium of video games.
**Japanese Parliament Criticizes Cultural Depiction**
On March 19, 2025, Japan’s House of Councillors became an unexpected venue for a debate about video game culture when politician Hiroyuki Kada raised concerns about Ubisoft’s upcoming game, *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*. The game, which is set in Feudal Japan, was scheduled for release the next day on March 20, 2025. It faced criticism for its portrayal of Japanese shrines, particularly the inclusion of the real Itatehyozu Shrine in Hyogo Prefecture, which players could destroy in the game.
During the parliamentary session, Kada expressed alarm about the potential real-life implications of such depictions. “I fear that allowing players to attack and destroy real-world locations in the game without permission could encourage similar behavior in real life,” he stated, according to IGN. He emphasized the distress felt by shrine officials and local residents, calling for a balance between creative freedom and cultural respect. “Acts that demean local cultures should be avoided,” he added, prompting a broader discussion about the responsibilities of global game developers.
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba responded thoughtfully, acknowledging the importance of respecting cultural and religious values. He suggested a collaborative approach, stating, “How to address this legally is something we need to discuss with the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.” Although no immediate legal action was announced, his comments highlighted the seriousness of the issue.
The parliamentary critique coincided with growing backlash from shrine officials, who indicated they might take “appropriate action,” possibly legal, against the game's unauthorized and destructive portrayal of their site. In anticipation of this escalation, Ubisoft released a day-one patch on the launch day, making shrines indestructible, which was seen as a direct response to these concerns.
This intersection of gaming and governance underscores Japan’s protective stance toward its heritage, challenging developers like Ubisoft to navigate cultural sensitivities more carefully. As *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* continues to generate debate, the parliamentary exchange marks a pivotal moment in the evolving relationship between interactive entertainment and real-world traditions.
During the parliamentary session, Kada expressed alarm about the potential real-life implications of such depictions. “I fear that allowing players to attack and destroy real-world locations in the game without permission could encourage similar behavior in real life,” he stated, according to IGN. He emphasized the distress felt by shrine officials and local residents, calling for a balance between creative freedom and cultural respect. “Acts that demean local cultures should be avoided,” he added, prompting a broader discussion about the responsibilities of global game developers.
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba responded thoughtfully, acknowledging the importance of respecting cultural and religious values. He suggested a collaborative approach, stating, “How to address this legally is something we need to discuss with the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.” Although no immediate legal action was announced, his comments highlighted the seriousness of the issue.
The parliamentary critique coincided with growing backlash from shrine officials, who indicated they might take “appropriate action,” possibly legal, against the game's unauthorized and destructive portrayal of their site. In anticipation of this escalation, Ubisoft released a day-one patch on the launch day, making shrines indestructible, which was seen as a direct response to these concerns.
This intersection of gaming and governance underscores Japan’s protective stance toward its heritage, challenging developers like Ubisoft to navigate cultural sensitivities more carefully. As *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* continues to generate debate, the parliamentary exchange marks a pivotal moment in the evolving relationship between interactive entertainment and real-world traditions.
**Ubisoft legal Threats to Gamers**
Ubisoft has signaled potential legal action against critics of "Assassin’s Creed Shadows," which launched on March 20, 2025. The game, set in Feudal Japan, has faced backlash mainly for its portrayal of Yasuke, the Black samurai, and inaccuracies in depicting Japanese culture, particularly the shrines. To address this, Ubisoft has introduced an “anti-harassment plan” that monitors social media for “targeted attacks” and keeps developers off social channels to avoid backlash. While the company claims the intent is to protect its team rather than silence criticism, the lack of clarity on what constitutes harassment has left players uncertain.
This initiative comes amid significant pressure, with Ubisoft’s stock down 40% in 2024 due to the underperformance of "Star Wars Outlaws." Some community members support the plan as a defense against trolling, while others fear it could suppress legitimate feedback. Though Ubisoft has not pursued legal action against all critics, they are prepared to intervene if necessary, making this a pivotal moment for both the game and the company.
This initiative comes amid significant pressure, with Ubisoft’s stock down 40% in 2024 due to the underperformance of "Star Wars Outlaws." Some community members support the plan as a defense against trolling, while others fear it could suppress legitimate feedback. Though Ubisoft has not pursued legal action against all critics, they are prepared to intervene if necessary, making this a pivotal moment for both the game and the company.
Game Released
Player Counts Vs Games Sold
Player Counts Vs Games Sold
**Player Count vs. Copies Sold for Assassin’s Creed Shadows (March 29, 2025)**
*note these are educated guesses not offical numbers as of the date listed
Players:
Ubisoft reported 3 million players by March 27, one week after the March 20 launch. With weekend growth, the estimate for March 29 is 3.2–3.5 million. Steam’s peak dropped from 64,825 to ~35,000, but consoles (73% of activations) and Ubisoft+ bolster totals.
Copies Sold:
No official figures, but estimates suggest 1.3–1.6 million by March 27 (430,000 Steam, 711,700 PS5, plus Xbox/PC). With two more days, sales likely hit 1.5–1.8 million, strong but behind Valhalla’s first-week peak.
Why Player Count Exceeds Copies Sold:
The gap—3.2–3.5 million players versus 1.5–1.8 million copies sold—yields a player-to-sale ratio of ~1.9–2.1.
This discrepancy is driven by:
Comparison:
Valhalla hit 12 million sold, 20 million players long-term; Shadows’ $350 million budget needs ~7 million sales to break even. It’s on pace but not at Valhalla’s level yet.
Conclusion:
Shadows has 3.2–3.5 million players and 1.5–1.8 million copies sold—solid, not stellar, based on trends and estimates nine days post-launch. Lower than most sceptics though it would be.
Players:
Ubisoft reported 3 million players by March 27, one week after the March 20 launch. With weekend growth, the estimate for March 29 is 3.2–3.5 million. Steam’s peak dropped from 64,825 to ~35,000, but consoles (73% of activations) and Ubisoft+ bolster totals.
Copies Sold:
No official figures, but estimates suggest 1.3–1.6 million by March 27 (430,000 Steam, 711,700 PS5, plus Xbox/PC). With two more days, sales likely hit 1.5–1.8 million, strong but behind Valhalla’s first-week peak.
Why Player Count Exceeds Copies Sold:
The gap—3.2–3.5 million players versus 1.5–1.8 million copies sold—yields a player-to-sale ratio of ~1.9–2.1.
This discrepancy is driven by:
- Ubisoft+ Subscriptions: At $18/month, this service lets players access Shadows without buying it. If 10–15% of players (320,000–525,000) are subscribers, that explains a chunk of the difference.
- Game Sharing: Console features like PS5’s digital sharing or family accounts boost player numbers without additional sales.
Comparison:
Valhalla hit 12 million sold, 20 million players long-term; Shadows’ $350 million budget needs ~7 million sales to break even. It’s on pace but not at Valhalla’s level yet.
Conclusion:
Shadows has 3.2–3.5 million players and 1.5–1.8 million copies sold—solid, not stellar, based on trends and estimates nine days post-launch. Lower than most sceptics though it would be.
