Japan PM Comments on Assassin's Creed Shadows

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba addressed questions regarding Assassin's Creed Shadows during a government conference today. While some media outlets suggested the PM criticized Ubisoft's feudal Japan-themed game over shrine depictions, the reality was far less contentious.

IGN obtained both an accurate translation and contextual insights through our Japanese counterparts to clarify the situation. We've also reached out to Ubisoft for comment.

Prior to Shadows' delayed launch, Ubisoft issued multiple apologies regarding game content and marketing materials that sparked concerns in Japan.

Criticism emerged regarding historical inaccuracies in the game's portrayal of feudal Japan, prompting Ubisoft to clarify they aimed to create "compelling historical fiction" rather than strict historical accuracy.

The company highlighted collaboration with historians while acknowledging, "certain promotional elements caused concern within Japan's community. We sincerely apologize for this."

Controversy also arose when Ubisoft used a reenactment group's flag without permission in Shadows' promotional artwork, for which they later apologized.

Collectible manufacturer PureArts withdrew a Shadows statue featuring a one-legged Torii gate after complaints. These gates mark sacred spaces throughout Japan, with the unusual design holding particular significance at Nagasaki's Sannō Shrine - located near the WWII atomic blast epicenter.

Amid these controversies, Shadows faces scrutiny both in Japan and among Western audiences regarding its cultural depictions.

Japanese politician Hiroyuki Kada, currently campaigning for reelection, raised concerns during the session:

"Allowing virtual destruction of real locations could encourage real-world imitation. While respecting creative freedom, we should avoid content that disrespects local cultures."

PM Ishiba responded:

"Legal responses require inter-ministerial discussion. Cultural respect is fundamental - just as our forces studied Iraqi customs before deployment. We cannot condone actions that disregard a nation's heritage."

IGN Japan provided crucial context: The discussion occurred amidst Japan's post-pandemic tourism boom and related concerns about vandalism. Kada connected these issues with Shadows' content.

The PM's remarks focused on hypothetical real-world actions rather than criticizing the game directly. The specific shrine featured in Shadows footage lies within Kada's constituency, with officials claiming Ubisoft didn't seek permission for its inclusion.

While government officials suggested potential consultation processes, legal experts note Ubisoft likely qualifies for artistic expression protections under Japanese law.

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Reports indicate Ubisoft will implement a day-one patch adjusting content. According to Automaton, the update will make shrine furnishings indestructible and reduce graphic violence in sacred spaces, with Ubisoft yet to confirm these changes internationally.

Following multiple delays and commercial disappointments like Star Wars Outlaws, Ubisoft faces significant pressure for Shadows to succeed globally. The company has recently experienced high-profile failures, restructuring, and project cancellations leading up to this release.

IGN's Assassin's Creed Shadows review scored the game 8/10, praising its refined open-world systems as "the series' best iteration in a decade."