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

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is a sprawling addition to the renowned franchise, offering both new players and seasoned fans a fresh journey through the series. Whether you're stepping into the world of Assassin’s Creed for the first time with Shadows or returning after a hiatus, here’s everything you need to know to dive in.

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

The Assassin’s Creed series spans continents and centuries, with each title typically offering a standalone story and setting, particularly since Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag. Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set in 16th-century Japan, a period and location distinct from other games in the series. The closest temporal connection is with Brotherhood and Revelations, which explore Italy and Constantinople in the early 1500s. However, due to the significant distance in both time and space, Shadows does not directly connect to these or any other Assassin’s Creed titles.

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

In the early days of the Assassin’s Creed franchise, a modern-day storyline featuring characters like Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North, was a staple. Over time, these modern-day narratives have evolved and sometimes struggled to maintain their relevance. Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces a new modern-day storyline designed to re-engage fans. This new narrative is sparse and mysterious, ensuring that prior knowledge of the series' modern-day plot isn't necessary for enjoying Shadows.

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, it does not ignore the franchise's rich history. The game includes Easter eggs, nods, and elements of the series' iconography that will delight long-time fans. Key elements such as the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templar Order are woven into the fabric of Shadows, but these connections unfold gradually, allowing both new and returning players to immerse themselves in the world of Feudal Japan without needing prior knowledge.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is available now on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, offering a standalone yet connected experience that honors the legacy of the Assassin’s Creed series.