Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba recently addressed concerns surrounding Ubisoft's *Assassin's Creed Shadows*, a game set in feudal Japan. While some reports suggested strong criticism, the Prime Minister's response was more nuanced. IGN Japan provided accurate translations and context to clarify the situation.
Ubisoft previously apologized for aspects of the game and its marketing that caused offense in Japan. These apologies stemmed from inaccuracies in the game's depiction of feudal Japan, the unauthorized use of a Japanese historical re-enactment group's flag in promotional materials, and the inclusion of a one-legged torii gate in a collectible statue (a gate with significant meaning, particularly near the Sannō Shrine in Nagasaki). Ubisoft emphasized the game is historical fiction, not a factual representation, and highlighted collaboration with consultants and historians.
The question regarding *Assassin's Creed Shadows* originated from Japanese politician Hiroyuki Kada, who expressed concern that the game's depiction of shrine desecration could inspire real-life actions. He linked this concern to "over-tourism" and vandalism in Japan.Prime Minister Ishiba responded that addressing the legal implications requires inter-ministerial discussion. He stated that defacing shrines is unacceptable and emphasized the importance of respecting cultural and religious sensitivities, referencing the Self-Defense Forces' cultural sensitivity training prior to deployment in Iraq. His comments focused on potential real-life consequences rather than direct criticism of the game itself.
IGN Japan's reporting highlights that the shrine depicted in the game, Itatehyozu Shrine in Himeji, is within Kada's constituency, and its representatives claim Ubisoft didn't seek permission to use the shrine's likeness. While government officials suggested collaboration to address concerns if the shrine seeks consultation, this remains conditional. Legally, Ubisoft's use of the shrine in a work of artistic expression likely falls under the protection of Japan's Constitution.
Both ministers' responses were generally vague and unlikely to lead to specific action, especially given Ubisoft's proactive approach with a day-one patch. This patch reportedly makes in-game shrine structures indestructible, reduces depictions of bloodshed in shrines, and removes blood depictions when attacking unarmed NPCs. Ubisoft's western operations have yet to confirm these changes.
The success of *Assassin's Creed Shadows* is crucial for Ubisoft, given previous delays and the underperformance of *Star Wars Outlaws*. Ubisoft has faced several setbacks recently, including high-profile game failures, layoffs, studio closures, and game cancellations. IGN's review of *Assassin's Creed Shadows* scored it an 8/10, praising its refined open-world gameplay.The Complete Assassin's Creed Timeline
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