Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Playable Without Prior AC Experience

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is a sprawling addition to the iconic *Assassin’s Creed* franchise, offering a deep dive into history for both newcomers and seasoned fans. If you're considering diving into *Shadows* as your first *Assassin’s Creed* experience 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 journeyed through various continents and epochs, with each game typically standing on its own in terms of story and setting, particularly following *Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag*. *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* transports players to 16th-century Japan, a setting far removed from the early 1500s locales of *Brotherhood* and *Revelations*, which were set in Italy and Constantinople, respectively. Given the significant temporal and geographical distance, *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 wove a continuous modern-day narrative, famously featuring Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North. However, subsequent games have struggled to maintain a cohesive modern-day storyline. *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* introduces a fresh modern-day narrative, aiming to re-engage fans without requiring knowledge of previous modern-day plots. While these modern elements are sparse and shrouded in mystery, they offer a new angle to the *Assassin’s Creed* experience.

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 pay homage to the franchise's rich history. These elements are designed to delight long-time fans without overwhelming newcomers. Key components of the *Assassin’s Creed* universe, such as the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars, are integrated into *Shadows*, but their significance unfolds gradually, allowing both new and returning players to immerse themselves in the world of Feudal Japan without needing prior knowledge of the series.

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