*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is a monumental addition to the expansive *Assassin’s Creed* franchise, known for its rich historical narratives and thrilling gameplay. Whether you're embarking on your first journey with the series or returning after a hiatus, here's everything you need to know about this latest installment.

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

The *Assassin’s Creed* timeline is a vast tapestry that stretches across various continents and epochs. While most games in the series offer standalone experiences, especially post-*Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag*, *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* takes us to 16th-century Japan. This setting is far removed from the early 1500s locales of *Brotherhood* and *Revelations*, which explored Italy and Constantinople, respectively. As such, *Shadows* does not directly connect with these earlier titles in terms of story or setting.

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

In its early years on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, the *Assassin’s Creed* series wove a compelling modern-day narrative featuring Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North. However, subsequent games have struggled to maintain the momentum of these modern-day stories. *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* introduces a fresh modern-day storyline, aiming to re-engage fans without requiring knowledge of previous modern-day plots. While these modern elements are sparse and shrouded in mystery, they promise to add a new layer of intrigue to the game.

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?

Although *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* isn't a direct sequel to any specific game in the series, Ubisoft has woven in subtle nods and Easter eggs that will delight long-time fans. These references include familiar imagery and iconography from the franchise, yet they are designed not to overwhelm newcomers. Key elements like the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars are integrated into *Shadows*, but their significance unfolds gradually, allowing both new and returning players to immerse themselves in the world of Feudal Japan without needing prior knowledge of the series.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is now available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, inviting players to explore its rich narrative and engaging gameplay.