Yes, You Can Play Assassin’s Creed Shadows Without Prior AC Experience

*Assassin's Creed Shadows* is a significant addition to the sprawling *Assassin's Creed* franchise, known for its rich historical narratives and expansive world-building. Whether you're diving into the series for the first time or returning after a hiatus, understanding the context of *Shadows* is essential for an enriched gaming experience.

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

The *Assassin's Creed* saga spans various continents and epochs, with each game typically offering a standalone experience, especially post-*Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag*. *Assassin's Creed Shadows* transports players to 16th-century Japan, a setting that stands distinctly apart from the earlier games in both location and era. The closest historical setting in the series was in *Brotherhood* and *Revelations*, which took place in the early 1500s in Italy and Constantinople. Given the significant gap in time and space, *Shadows* does not directly connect with these or any other titles in the series.

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

In the initial phase of the *Assassin's Creed* series, particularly during the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 era, the franchise wove a compelling modern-day narrative featuring Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North. However, subsequent entries have struggled to maintain the momentum of these modern-day plots. *Assassin's Creed Shadows* introduces a fresh modern-day storyline, aiming to re-engage fans without relying on previous modern-day narratives. This new approach means players won't need prior knowledge of the series' modern-day arcs, though the elements of the modern-day story in *Shadows* remain sparse and enigmatic.

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?

Although *Assassin's Creed Shadows* is not a direct sequel to any specific game, Ubisoft has included nods to the franchise's history through Easter eggs, familiar imagery, and iconic elements. These references are designed to delight long-time fans without overwhelming newcomers. Key elements from the series, such as the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars, play roles in *Shadows*, yet their significance unfolds gradually, allowing both new and returning players to enjoy the journey through Feudal Japan without needing to catch up on past entries.

*Assassin's Creed Shadows* is now available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, inviting players to explore its unique blend of history and intrigue.