Assassin's Creed has always been known as a game series that delivers immersive adventures with action elements and historical stories. However, the latest entry, Assassin's Creed Shadows, sparked heated discussions, especially regarding the release of the Japanese version.
Ubisoft has announced a number of significant changes to the game's content to meet local regulations. What are these changes, and how will they impact the gaming experience? Let's discuss further!
Censorship on the Japanese Version
Ubisoft confirmed that some graphic elements in Assassin's Creed Shadows will be removed from the Japanese version to comply with the standards set by CERO (Computer Entertainment Rating Organization).
One of the main changes is the removal of the dismembermentThis is the ability to cut off an enemy's neck and limbs during battle. While in other regions this feature can be enabled or disabled according to the player's preference, in Japan it is completely removed. In addition, the wounds on the characters' bodies will also be adjusted to look smoother and less graphic.
Ubisoft is also making changes to the audio elements. While specific details have not been revealed, these changes include certain dialog, sound effects, or music being adjusted to local standards to ensure the game is acceptable to Japanese audiences.
Strict Regulation from CERO
CERO has very strict regulations against violence, sexual elements, and anti-social behavior in games. In fact, even though Assassin's Creed Shadows CERO Z rating-which is only for players aged 18 and above-some elements of the game are still considered over the top.
Similar cases have happened before. In 2021, Capcom removed the decapitation scene from Resident Evil Village to fulfill this regulation. Meanwhile, in 2022, Krafton chose not to release the The Callisto Protocol in Japan due to the difficulty of adapting content to these standards.
In addition to violent elements, CERO regulations also include cultural and ideological sensitivities. This is reflected in a change to Yasuke's character description on the Japanese version of the Steam page. Originally referred to as a "samurai," the description was changed to "a warrior worth a thousand men," likely to avoid potential controversy over cultural sensitivities.
Controversy surrounding Yasuke's character
Yasuke's character in Assassin's Creed Shadows has come under scrutiny among gamers. Some have questioned the portrayal of Yasuke as a "samurai," sparking discussions about historical accuracy in the game.
Ubisoft explained that their goal was to create an engaging gaming experience without carrying any particular agenda. However, the change in Yasuke's description for the Japanese version shows that adapting content for the global market requires careful consideration, especially in maintaining cultural sensitivity.
Release Schedule
Assassin's Creed Shadows is scheduled for release on March 20, 2025 with special adjustments for the Japanese version that include changes to graphics and audio elements to meet local regulations.
In other regions, the game will be released without such changes, allowing players to enjoy original features, such as dismemberment and other elements of graphic violence, according to their preferences. How these changes affect the gaming experience, especially in Japan, will be interesting to see.
Source: PC Gamer
