*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is a monumental addition to an expansive franchise with a rich historical backdrop. Whether you're diving into *Shadows* as your inaugural *Assassin’s Creed* experience or revisiting the series after a hiatus, here's everything you need to know to get started.
Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Overlap With Other AC Games? Answered
The *Assassin’s Creed* timeline spans continents and centuries, with each title typically standing alone in its narrative and setting, particularly post-*Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag*. *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* transports players to 16th-century Japan, a setting far removed from the nearest time period explored in *Brotherhood* and *Revelations*, which took place in Italy and Constantinople during the early 1500s. Given this significant gap in both time and location, *Shadows* does not directly connect with these earlier entries.
Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Have a Modern-Day Story? Answered
In its early days on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, the *Assassin’s Creed* series featured a compelling modern-day storyline interwoven through its titles, notably with the character Desmond Miles voiced by Nolan North. Over time, these modern narratives have faced challenges in maintaining consistency and engagement.
*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* introduces a fresh modern-day storyline, aiming to reignite fan interest. You won't need to catch up on previous modern-day plots to enjoy *Shadows*, as this new narrative stands on its own. However, the modern-day elements in *Shadows* are sparse and shrouded in mystery.
Related: Assassin’s Creed Shadows Trophy List (All 55 Trophies)
Is Assassin’s Creed Shadows Connected to the Series and Does it Matter If You’ve Played It Before?
Although *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* isn't a direct sequel to any specific game, Ubisoft weaves in subtle nods to the franchise's past, including Easter eggs and familiar iconography that seasoned fans will appreciate. These connections are designed to enhance the experience without overwhelming newcomers.
*Shadows* can be fully enjoyed as a standalone adventure, yet it still incorporates key elements from the series such as the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars. These connections unfold gradually, allowing both new and returning players ample time to immerse themselves in the world of Feudal Japan without needing prior knowledge of the series.
*Assassin’s Creed Shadows is available now on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.*
