Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba recently addressed concerns regarding Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed Shadows during a government conference. While some reports initially suggested strong criticism, the reality is more nuanced. IGN Japan provided accurate translation and context, clarifying the situation.
Ubisoft previously apologized for aspects of the game and its marketing that caused offense in Japan. These included historical inaccuracies in the depiction of feudal Japan (described as "historical fiction," not a factual representation), 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 given its association with the Nagasaki atomic bombing). PureArts subsequently removed the statue from sale.
The question about Assassin's Creed Shadows originated from Japanese politician Hiroyuki Kada. Kada expressed concern that the game's depiction of attacking and destroying real-world locations could inspire similar actions in real life, citing worries from shrine officials and residents. He linked this to concerns about "over-tourism" and vandalism.
Prime Minister Ishiba responded that the legal implications require discussion among relevant ministries. He emphasized that defacing shrines is unacceptable, highlighting the importance of respecting other cultures and religions, referencing the Self-Defense Forces' cultural sensitivity training before deployment to Iraq. His response focused on potential real-life consequences rather than direct criticism of the game itself.
IGN Japan's analysis clarifies that Kada's concerns were intertwined with broader anxieties about over-tourism and vandalism. The specific shrine depicted in the game, Itatehyozu Shrine in Himeji, is within Kada's constituency, and he stated that shrine representatives confirmed Ubisoft did not seek permission to use the shrine's image and name. Subsequent ministerial responses were vague and unlikely to result in immediate action.
Ubisoft appears to have proactively addressed these concerns with a day-one patch, reportedly making in-game shrines indestructible and reducing depictions of violence within them. This patch, reported by Automaton, hasn't yet been officially confirmed by Ubisoft's western operations. IGN has reached out for comment.
Assassin's Creed Shadows' success is crucial for Ubisoft, given previous delays, the underperformance of Star Wars Outlaws, and other recent setbacks including layoffs and studio closures. IGN's review scored the game an 8/10, praising its refined open-world gameplay.
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