"New Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Play Without Prior Games?"

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is a monumental addition to the expansive *Assassin’s Creed* franchise, known for its rich historical settings and intricate narratives. Whether you're stepping into the world of *Assassin’s Creed* for the first time with *Shadows* or returning after a hiatus, here's everything you need to know to dive right in.

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

The *Assassin’s Creed* series has explored various continents and epochs, with each game offering a relatively standalone experience, especially post-*Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag*. *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* transports players to 16th-century Japan, a setting far removed in time and geography from the earliest games like *Brotherhood* and *Revelations*, which were set in the early 1500s in Italy and Constantinople. Given this significant distance, *Shadows* does not directly connect with these earlier titles, ensuring a fresh start for all players.

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

Originally, the *Assassin’s Creed* franchise wove a continuous modern-day narrative through its games, notably featuring Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North, during the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 era. However, the modern-day segments have since struggled to maintain their relevance. *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* introduces an entirely new modern-day storyline, aiming to re-engage fans with this aspect of the series. While these modern-day elements are sparse and shrouded in mystery, they won't necessitate knowledge of previous modern-day plots to enjoy *Shadows*.

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, it still pays homage to the series' legacy. Ubisoft includes Easter eggs, nods, and iconic imagery that will thrill long-time fans without overwhelming newcomers. Key elements from the series, such as the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars, are integrated into *Shadows*, yet these connections unfold gradually, allowing both new and returning players to enjoy the adventure in Feudal Japan without feeling lost by prior events.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is now available on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox, inviting players old and new to explore its rich world and engaging storyline.