Assassin's Creed Shadows: No Prior AC Games Needed

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is a monumental addition to a franchise renowned for its expansive history and intricate storytelling. Whether you're diving into *Shadows* as your inaugural *Assassin’s Creed* experience or returning after a hiatus, here's everything you need to know to get started.

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

The *Assassin’s Creed* series has explored various continents and epochs, offering a tapestry of narratives spanning centuries. Since *Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag*, the games have largely been standalone adventures, each with its unique setting and storyline.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is set in 16th-century Japan, a setting that stands apart from previous entries. The closest in time and location would be *Brotherhood* and *Revelations*, which took place in Italy and Constantinople during the early 1500s. Given the significant temporal and geographical distance, *Shadows* does not directly connect to these earlier titles.

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

In its early days on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, the *Assassin’s Creed* series wove a continuous modern-day narrative, featuring characters like Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North. However, subsequent entries have struggled to maintain a compelling modern-day plot.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* introduces a fresh modern-day storyline aimed at reigniting fan interest. You won't need to catch up on previous modern-day narratives, as *Shadows* starts anew. Nonetheless, the modern-day elements 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?

While *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* isn't a direct sequel to any specific game, Ubisoft hasn't abandoned the franchise's history. The game includes Easter eggs, nods, and iconic imagery that will thrill long-time fans without overwhelming newcomers.

*Shadows* can be enjoyed as a standalone adventure, yet it incorporates key elements from the series such as the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templar Order. These connections unfold gradually, allowing both new and veteran players ample time to immerse themselves in the world of Feudal Japan without needing prior knowledge of the series.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows is available now on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.*