Yes, You Can Play Assassin’s Creed Shadows Without Prior AC Experience

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is a thrilling addition to the expansive Assassin’s Creed franchise, which has a rich history that spans continents and epochs. Whether you're diving into Shadows as your first foray into the series or returning after a hiatus, here’s everything you need to know to get started.

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

The Assassin’s Creed timeline is a sprawling saga that covers a vast array of time periods and locations. Since Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag, most games in the series have been largely standalone in their narratives and settings. Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set in 16th-century Japan, a period far removed from the settings of Brotherhood and Revelations, which explored Italy and Constantinople in the early 1500s. Given this significant temporal and geographical separation, Shadows does not directly connect to these earlier titles.

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

In its early days, the Assassin’s Creed series was known for its compelling modern-day storyline, with characters like Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North, tying the games together. However, the modern-day narratives have faced challenges in maintaining their relevance in recent entries.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces a fresh modern-day storyline aimed at re-engaging fans. You don't need to be familiar with the previous modern-day plots to enjoy Shadows. The modern-day elements in Shadows are sparse and shrouded in mystery, adding an intriguing layer to the game without overwhelming the main historical narrative.

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?

While Assassin’s Creed Shadows isn't a direct sequel to any specific game, Ubisoft has woven in subtle connections to the broader series. The game includes Easter eggs, nods, and iconic imagery that will thrill long-time fans without alienating newcomers. These elements are designed to enhance the experience for those familiar with the series, but they are not crucial to understanding or enjoying Shadows.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows can be fully enjoyed as a standalone adventure. Key elements from the series, such as the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templar Order, are integrated into the story, yet their significance unfolds gradually. This approach ensures that both new players and returning fans have ample time to immerse themselves in the world of Feudal Japan without needing to know the entire history of the franchise.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is available now on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.