Assassin's Creed Shadows: Japan Censorship

Assassin’s Creed Shadows (AC Shadows) has received a CERO Z rating in Japan, resulting in the removal of dismemberment and decapitation. This article details the impact of this rating on the Japanese and international releases.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Japanese Version Undergoes Content Changes

Ubisoft Japan announced via Twitter (X) that Assassin’s Creed Shadows received a CERO Z rating from Japan’s Computer Entertainment Rating Organization (CERO). This has led to content differences between the Japanese and international (North America/Europe) versions.

The Japanese release will omit dismemberment and decapitation, altering depictions of wounds and severed body parts. Changes to the Japanese audio dub of the international version are also planned, though specifics remain unannounced. Conversely, the international version will offer a toggle to adjust the depiction of dismemberment and decapitation.

CERO Z Rating: An 18+ Designation

A CERO Z rating restricts sales and distribution to individuals aged 18 and older. CERO’s ratings system considers four categories: sex, violence, antisocial behavior, and language/ideology. Games failing to meet CERO guidelines won’t receive a rating, necessitating developer modifications. While excessive violence is cited, the statement doesn't specify other factors contributing to the Z rating.

This isn't unprecedented for the Assassin’s Creed franchise; many titles, including AC Valhalla and AC Origins, have received CERO Z ratings due to their violent content. CERO's strict stance on gore and dismemberment has historically presented challenges for game releases in Japan. In 2022, The Callisto Protocol canceled its Japanese release due to disagreements over CERO's required changes, and in 2023, the Dead Space Remake faced a similar fate.

Yasuke's In-Game Description Altered

The description of Yasuke, a main protagonist, has been altered on Japanese Steam and PlayStation Store pages. The term "samurai" (侍) has been replaced with "騎当千" (Ikki tousen), meaning "a warrior who can face a thousand enemies." This follows 2024 backlash concerning the use of "black samurai" to describe Yasuke.

Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot previously stated the company's priority is entertainment for a broad audience, not pushing specific agendas. The use of historical figures, such as the Pope or Queen Victoria, in previous Assassin’s Creed games highlights the developers’ established approach.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is scheduled for release on March 20, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. For further information, visit our Assassin’s Creed Shadows page.