Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Playable Without Prior AC Experience?

*Assassin's Creed Shadows* is a monumental addition to an expansive franchise with a rich tapestry of history. Whether you're stepping into the world of *Assassin's Creed* for the first time with *Shadows* or returning 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 epochs, featuring a diverse array of titles set across centuries. Since *Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag*, most games in the series have operated as standalone stories within their unique settings.

*Assassin's Creed Shadows* takes place in 16th-century Japan. The nearest *Assassin's Creed* game in terms of historical setting is *Brotherhood* and *Revelations*, which explored Italy and Constantinople during the early 1500s. Given the significant gap in both time and location, *Shadows* does not directly connect with these earlier titles.

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

In the initial phase of the *Assassin's Creed* saga on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, the series included a continuous modern-day narrative, notably featuring Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North. However, subsequent modern-day stories have faced challenges in maintaining their appeal.

*Assassin's Creed Shadows* introduces a fresh modern-day storyline, aiming to re-engage fans. You don't need to be familiar with the previous modern-day plots to enjoy *Shadows*. The new modern-day elements are intriguing yet sparingly used, adding mystery without overwhelming the main 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 included nods to the franchise's history. Easter eggs, familiar imagery, and iconography are woven throughout, delighting long-time fans without overwhelming newcomers.

*Shadows* can be thoroughly enjoyed as a standalone adventure. Key elements from the series, such as the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars, play roles in the game, though their significance unfolds gradually. This approach ensures that both new and returning players can immerse themselves in the world of Feudal Japan without needing to understand the broader series context.

*Assassin's Creed Shadows* is now available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, inviting players to explore its rich narrative and gameplay.