Assassin's Creed Shadows: Japan Censorship

Assassin’s Creed Shadows (AC Shadows) has received a CERO Z rating in Japan, resulting in the removal of dismemberment and decapitation. This article details the content differences between the Japanese and international releases.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows Receives CERO Z Rating in Japan

Content Changes in the Japanese Version of Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Ubisoft Japan announced via Twitter (X) that Assassin’s Creed Shadows received a CERO Z rating from Japan’s Computer Entertainment Rating Organization (CERO). Consequently, the Japanese version differs from international releases (North America/Europe).

The Japanese version removes all instances of dismemberment and decapitation. Depictions of wounds and severed body parts have also been altered. While specific changes to the Japanese audio dub haven't been detailed, modifications have been confirmed.

Conversely, the international version will allow players to toggle dismemberment and decapitation via an in-game option.

CERO Z Rating: Implications for Players

A CERO Z rating signifies that the game’s content is suitable only for players aged 18 and older, restricting sales and distribution to those under 18. CERO's ratings consider four categories: sex, violence, antisocial behavior, and language/ideology.

Games failing to meet CERO's guidelines will not receive a rating, necessitating modifications to secure approval. While the statement cites excessive violence, other factors contributing to the Z rating remain unspecified.

This isn't the first time the Assassin’s Creed series has faced this; many titles, including AC Valhalla and AC Origins, have received CERO Z ratings due to violent content and themes.

CERO's stringent approach to gore and dismemberment has consistently presented challenges for game releases in Japan. Several companies have opted against releasing in Japan rather than compromise their vision. The Callisto Protocol (2022) and the Dead Space Remake (2023) are notable examples.

Changes to Yasuke's In-Game Description

The Japanese versions of the Steam and PlayStation store listings for AC Shadows have also seen a change in Yasuke's description. The term "samurai" (侍), initially used, has been replaced with "騎当千" (Ikki tousen), meaning "a warrior who can face a thousand enemies." This follows backlash in 2024 regarding the use of "black samurai" in previous descriptions.

Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot previously stated the company prioritizes entertainment for the broadest audience and aims not to promote any specific agenda. The use of historical figures in Assassin’s Creed storylines, including figures like the Pope and Queen Victoria, is a long-standing practice.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is scheduled for release on March 20, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Visit our Assassin’s Creed Shadows page for more information.