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A Change.org petition has garnered almost 40,000 signatures calling for canceling Ubisoft’s upcoming game Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
The petition, primarily driven by Japanese gamers, criticizes what they perceive as significant lapses in historical accuracy and cultural respect within the game.
Controversial Samurai Depiction
At the heart of the controversy is the portrayal of Yasuke, a real-life historical figure known as the first African samurai. Critics argue that Ubisoft’s depiction of Yasuke as a respected samurai ignores the hierarchical nature of feudal Japanese society, where samurai were typically of noble descent or served nobles as retainers known as “gokenin.”
The petition asserts that this portrayal not only distorts Japanese history but also perpetuates cultural insensitivity and potentially contributes to Asian racism.
The petition statement urges Ubisoft to halt the release of Assassin’s Creed Shadows immediately and conduct thorough research to ensure proper respect for Japanese history and culture.
Will Ubisoft Cancel Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
Despite the outcry, it remains to be seen whether Ubisoft will respond to these demands, especially given the game’s impending release date in November 2024.
The controversy underscores broader discussions within the gaming industry about developers’ responsibilities to accurately represent diverse cultures and historical contexts.
While Assassin’s Creed Shadows promises a fascinating journey through feudal Japan with unique protagonists, the backlash highlights the delicate balance developers must strike between creative freedom and cultural sensitivity.
As the petition continues to gain traction, it remains to be seen how Ubisoft will navigate this criticism while maintaining its commitment to delivering engaging and respectful gaming experiences.
The news comes a few months after Ubisoft unveiled Assassin’s Creed Mirage for Apple devices.
