"Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Playable Without Prior AC Games?"

Assassin's Creed Shadows is a significant addition to the ever-evolving franchise, offering a rich experience whether you're a newcomer or a returning fan. Here's everything you need to know to dive into this expansive game.

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

Image via Xbox Wire. The Assassin's Creed timeline spans continents and centuries, with each game typically presenting a standalone story and setting, particularly since Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag. Assassin's Creed Shadows takes place in 16th-century Japan, a period far removed from the settings of Brotherhood and Revelations, which were set in early 16th-century Italy and Constantinople, respectively. As such, there are no direct connections between Shadows and these earlier titles.

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

In the early days of the Assassin's Creed series, the modern-day narrative was a key element, prominently featuring characters like Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North. However, the modern-day stories have since struggled to maintain their relevance. Assassin's Creed Shadows introduces a fresh modern-day storyline designed to re-engage fans. This new approach means you don't need to be familiar with previous modern-day plots to enjoy Shadows. The modern-day elements in Shadows are intriguing yet sparse, adding a layer of mystery without overwhelming the main historical narrative.

Is Assassin’s Creed Shadows Connected to the Series and Does it Matter If You’ve Played It Before?

Naoe receives her Hidden Blade in Assassin's Creed Shadows, Image via Ubisoft. While Assassin's Creed Shadows is not a direct sequel to any specific game, it does not ignore the franchise's history. The game includes Easter eggs, nods, and familiar iconography that will delight long-time fans without overwhelming newcomers. Key elements like the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars are woven into the fabric of Shadows, though their significance unfolds gradually. This approach ensures that both new players and veterans can enjoy the game set in 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 immersive world.