New Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Playable Without Prior AC Experience?

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is a monumental addition to the ever-expanding *Assassin’s Creed* franchise, offering a rich tapestry of history and intrigue. Whether you're diving into the series for the first time with *Shadows* or returning after a break, here's what you should know.

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

The *Assassin’s Creed* timeline spans continents and centuries, with each game typically offering a standalone story and setting, particularly since *Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag*. *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is set in 16th-century Japan, a period and location far removed from the settings of *Brotherhood* and *Revelations*, which explored Italy and Constantinople in the early 1500s. As a result, *Shadows* does not overlap with any other *Assassin’s Creed* games in terms of story or setting.

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

In the early days of the *Assassin’s Creed* series, during the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 era, the franchise included a modern-day storyline that connected the games, featuring characters like Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North. Over time, these modern-day narratives have struggled to maintain their appeal.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* introduces a fresh modern-day storyline, aiming to re-engage fans. This new narrative is distinct from previous modern-day stories in the series, so you won't need to worry about past plots. However, the modern-day elements in *Shadows* are sparse and shrouded in mystery.

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?

While *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* isn't a direct sequel to any specific game in the series, Ubisoft has woven in elements that honor the franchise's history. The game includes Easter eggs, nods, and iconic imagery that will delight long-time fans without overwhelming newcomers.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* can be enjoyed as a standalone adventure, yet it incorporates key elements like the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars. These connections unfold gradually, allowing both new and returning players ample time to immerse themselves in the world of Feudal Japan without needing to catch up on the broader series narrative.

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