Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Playable Without Prior AC Experience

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is a monumental addition to an expansive franchise that boasts a rich and intricate history. Whether you're diving into *Shadows* as your inaugural *Assassin’s Creed* experience or returning after a hiatus, here's what you should know to fully appreciate this latest installment.

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

The *Assassin’s Creed* timeline has spanned across continents and epochs, weaving a tapestry of narratives across centuries. Historically, most *Assassin’s Creed* games have maintained a degree of independence in their story and setting, particularly following *Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag*.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* transports players to 16th-century Japan, a setting far removed from the closest chronological neighbors, *Brotherhood* and *Revelations*, which were set in Italy and Constantinople during the early 1500s. Given the vast temporal and geographical separation, *Shadows* does not intersect with these titles in any significant way.

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

During the early years of the *Assassin’s Creed* series on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, a modern-day narrative thread connected the games, with characters like Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North, playing a central role. However, subsequent titles have seen these modern-day stories struggle to maintain their momentum.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* introduces a fresh modern-day storyline, designed to re-engage fans with the franchise's present-day elements. You won't need to delve into past modern-day narratives to enjoy *Shadows*, as this new story stands on its own, albeit sparsely integrated and shrouded in mystery.

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* is not a direct sequel to any specific game in the series, Ubisoft has not entirely severed ties with the franchise's past. The game includes subtle nods, Easter eggs, and familiar iconography that will delight long-time fans, yet these elements are crafted in a way that they won't overwhelm newcomers.

While *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* can be thoroughly enjoyed as a standalone adventure, it still incorporates key elements and factions from the series, such as the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars. These connections unfold gradually, allowing both new and veteran players ample time to immerse themselves in the world of Feudal Japan without feeling burdened by prior knowledge.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is now available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, inviting players to explore its depths, whether as a seasoned assassin or a fresh initiate into the storied world of *Assassin’s Creed*.