The Hidden Threads of Assassin's Creed Shadows

The latest installment in the Assassin's Creed series, Shadows, brings a fresh twist by focusing on a non-assassin protagonist, which surprisingly makes the game feel more connected to the franchise's core. This shift in focus is intriguing, especially when considering the historical context and the return of familiar factions. The game is set in 1576 Japan, during the Sengoku period, a significant departure from the ancient settings of previous games like Greece, Egypt, and Viking Britain. This change makes Shadows feel more modern, with advanced weaponry like the teppo, a type of early firearm, adding to the realism. The timeline of Assassin's Creed Shadows is particularly interesting because it brings us closer to the events of the Ezio Trilogy, which ended in 1512. This proximity to Ezio's story is exciting, as it hints at a potential return to the more active and dramatic parts of the series' lore. The Templars, a key faction in the Assassin's Creed universe, make a comeback in Shadows. Their involvement is tied to Yasuke, a former slave turned samurai, rather than the main protagonist, Naoe. This revelation adds depth to Yasuke's story, turning it into a tale of vengeance and intrigue. The Templars' presence in Shadows is a sign that the series is moving away from the ancient settings of recent games and returning to more recent history. This shift is particularly exciting for fans who have been waiting for a return to the more dramatic and action-packed parts of the series' lore. The game's non-linear mission design, however, means that the Templar storyline is not as prominent as it could be. Players might not encounter the Templars until the very end of Act 2, which is a shame because their involvement adds a layer of complexity to the game's narrative. Despite this, the potential for future games to build on this connective tissue is promising. Codename Hexe, one of the upcoming Assassin's Creed games, is rumored to have a setting in the Witch Trials, which could be an opportunity to further explore the Templars' role in the series. The return of the Templars in Shadows is a welcome change, as it signals a shift away from the exposition-heavy games of recent years. Instead of laying the foundations of the Creed and Templars, Shadows actively shows their establishment across the globe. This change is a breath of fresh air, as it allows for a more engaging and exciting narrative. The potential for future games to build on this connective tissue is promising, and fans can look forward to a return to the more dramatic and action-packed parts of the series' lore.