Can You Play Assassin’s Creed Shadows Without Playing Other AC Games?

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is a monumental addition to the expansive *Assassin’s Creed* franchise, known for its rich historical narratives and immersive gameplay. Whether you're diving into the series 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* series has explored various continents and epochs, with each game typically offering a standalone experience, particularly following *Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag*. *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* transports players to 16th-century Japan, a setting distinct from the early 1500s locales of *Brotherhood* and *Revelations*, which were set in Italy and Constantinople, respectively. Given the significant temporal and geographical separation, *Shadows* does not directly connect with these earlier titles.

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

In its early years on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, the *Assassin’s Creed* series featured a compelling modern-day narrative, prominently featuring Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North. However, subsequent games have struggled to maintain the momentum of these modern-day stories. *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* introduces a fresh modern-day storyline, aiming to re-engage fans without requiring knowledge of previous modern-day plots. While these modern-day elements are sparse and shrouded in mystery, they promise to add a new layer of intrigue to the game.

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 in the series, Ubisoft has woven in subtle nods and Easter eggs that will resonate with long-time fans. These elements include familiar iconography and references to the broader *Assassin’s Creed* universe, such as the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars. However, these connections are introduced gradually, ensuring that newcomers can enjoy *Shadows* as a standalone adventure without feeling overwhelmed by the series' history. Both new and returning players will have ample time to immerse themselves in the world of Feudal Japan.

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