Ubisoft's Latest Release: A Cultural Battlefield

This week marks the highly anticipated launch of Ubisoft's latest blockbuster, Assassin's Creed Shadows, a monumental entry in the series that takes players to feudal Japan for the first time in a major release. However, the game's debut is shadowed by controversy.

Controversy Over Character Selection

The inclusion of Yasuke, the first recorded black samurai in Japanese history, as one of the game’s two leading characters has sparked fierce debates online since the premiere trailer dropped nearly a year ago. Critics have raised concerns about historical accuracy—questioning Yasuke's samurai status—while others argue against a black character leading a game that many feel should center on more traditional Japanese protagonists, such as Jin Sakai from the critically acclaimed Ghost of Tsushima. The second protagonist in Shadows is a Japanese woman, yet this has not alleviated the discontent.

Broader Implications of the Backlash

This controversy has morphed into a larger anti-diversity (anti-DEI) movement gaining traction across various social media platforms, reflecting a broader cultural struggle evident even in the political discourse of the United States. As the game gears up for its release, Ubisoft is bracing for potential harassment directed at its developers, a troubling trend that has become all too familiar in the gaming industry.

Ubisoft's Response to Harassment Risks

According to reports from BFMTV, anonymous Ubisoft employees have revealed that the company is implementing measures to protect its staff. Employees are being advised against discussing their association with Ubisoft on social media to minimize the risk of online harassment. Furthermore, Ubisoft is reportedly working with Canada's Communications Security Establishment to create a comprehensive anti-harassment strategy, which includes offering psychological and legal assistance to affected developers.

The Toxic Environment in the Gaming Industry

The gaming industry has seen numerous developers targeted for their work on titles perceived as “woke” or for expressing progressive views. This backlash can manifest in online harassment campaigns, aggressive social media brigades, and personal attacks, leading to a toxic environment for those behind the game. Often, even innocuous details like the developers' fashion choices or hairstyles in promotional videos are scrutinized and cited as reasons for discontent.

Looking Ahead Post-Launch

As the launch date approaches, it remains to be seen whether all Ubisoft employees will heed the advice to limit their social media presence. Public sentiment toward Assassin's Creed Shadows, particularly in relation to Yasuke's significant role, will play a critical part in the narrative surrounding the game post-launch.

Future Controversies on the Horizon

Moreover, the situation may become even more complicated with the upcoming release of Ghost of Yotei, which shifts focus to a female lead—sparking potential controversy reminiscent of the current debates. As this backlash against diversity initiatives and character representation intensifies, it’s clear that Assassin's Creed Shadows is just the latest battleground in a cultural clash within the gaming community.

Stay Updated

Stay tuned for more updates on this story and how it unfolds after the game's release!