Assassin's Creed Shadows: Playable Without Prior AC Experience

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is a monumental addition to the ever-expanding *Assassin’s Creed* franchise, boasting a rich historical backdrop. Whether you're stepping into the series for the first time with *Shadows* or returning after a hiatus, here’s everything you need to know.

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

The *Assassin’s Creed* timeline spans continents and centuries, with each game typically offering a standalone narrative and setting, particularly after *Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag*. *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* transports players to 16th-century Japan, a setting that's temporally and geographically distant from earlier entries like *Brotherhood* and *Revelations*, which explored Italy and Constantinople in the early 1500s. Consequently, there are no direct connections between *Shadows* and these previous titles.

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

In the franchise's early days on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, *Assassin’s Creed* featured a compelling modern-day storyline that threaded through multiple games, most memorably with Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North. Over time, however, these modern narratives have struggled to maintain their momentum.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* introduces a fresh modern-day storyline, aiming to re-engage fans without requiring them to be familiar with past modern-day arcs. While these elements are sparse and shrouded in mystery, they represent a new chapter that doesn't rely on previous knowledge.

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* is not a direct sequel to any specific game, it still pays homage to the franchise's legacy. Ubisoft has included Easter eggs, nods, and iconic imagery that will resonate with long-time fans without overwhelming newcomers. Key elements like the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars are woven into the fabric of *Shadows*, yet their integration is gradual, allowing both new and returning players to immerse themselves in the Feudal Japan setting without feeling lost.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is now available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, offering a standalone adventure that respects its roots while inviting all players to explore its new narrative landscape.