Assassin’s Creed Shadows: A ‘Woke’ Game? Ubisoft Responds to Controversies

Ubisoft’s Cultural Sensitivity Controversy Over Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ Yasuke Character

Assassin’s Creed Shadows has faced significant backlash. The game’s depiction has drawn accusations of cultural insensitivity, particularly concerning the character of Yasuke, leading to ongoing controversy. This has prompted questions even from Ubisoft shareholders regarding the company’s approach to inclusivity.

Ubisoft Defends Inclusive Casting in Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ Historical Drama

At a recent meeting, an Ubisoft shareholder questioned whether Assassin’s Creed Shadows was following a “politically correct” trend. The shareholder specifically cited the choice of an African samurai as the main character in 16th-century Japan and the “possibility for him to fall in love with a transgender character,” asking if Ubisoft intended to be inclusive or would “backtrack on this liberal political agenda.” Yves Guillemot, CEO of Ubisoft, firmly responded, “Our goal was to create heroes on epic journeys. This character is a real person—someone who actually lived—and bringing them to life was a huge win. That’s why we chose to share their story. We wanted to tell a unique tale, something fresh and different.”

Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed Shadows Continues Success with September DLC, Ghost of Tsushima Competition Awaits

Despite recent disappointments with titles like Star Wars Outlaws and Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, Ubisoft views Assassin’s Creed Shadows as a success. An upcoming DLC for Assassin’s Creed Shadows is confirmed for September 16th, which is expected to sustain interest in the title before its major competitor, Ghost of Tsushima, is released. DLC plans for Star Wars Outlaws, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, and Ghost of Tsushima have not yet been announced.

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