"Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Playable Without Prior AC Games?"

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is a monumental addition to the ever-expanding *Assassin’s Creed* franchise, which boasts a rich tapestry of history and gameplay. Whether you're diving into *Shadows* as your inaugural *Assassin’s Creed* experience or revisiting the series after a hiatus, here's everything you need to get started.

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

The *Assassin’s Creed* timeline spans continents and epochs, featuring a diverse array of titles that delve into various centuries. Since *Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag*, most games have operated as largely standalone narratives with unique settings. *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* transports players to 16th-century Japan, a period and location that diverges significantly from the settings of *Brotherhood* and *Revelations*, which explored early 16th-century Italy and Constantinople. Due to this temporal and geographical separation, *Shadows* does not directly connect to any previous titles in the series.

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

In the early days of the *Assassin’s Creed* saga during the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 era, the franchise included a continuous modern-day storyline, famously featuring Nolan North’s character, Desmond Miles. However, as the series evolved, these modern-day narratives have faced challenges in maintaining their momentum.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* introduces a fresh modern-day storyline aimed at re-engaging fans. You don’t need to be familiar with the previous modern-day arcs to enjoy *Shadows*. That said, the modern-day elements in *Shadows* are subtle and sparingly used, adding a layer of mystery 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 not entirely abandoned the franchise's history. The game includes delightful Easter eggs, nods, and iconic imagery that will thrill veteran fans, yet these elements are designed not to overwhelm newcomers.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* can be fully enjoyed as a standalone adventure. However, key elements from the series, such as the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars, are woven into the narrative. These connections unfold gradually, allowing both new and returning players ample time to immerse themselves in the world of Feudal Japan without needing prior knowledge of the series.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows is available now on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.*