Japan PM Responds to Assassin's Creed Shadows Query: The Truth Unveiled

During an official government conference, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba of Japan addressed concerns about Ubisoft's upcoming game, *Assassin's Creed Shadows*, set in Feudal Japan. Reports initially suggested a strong rebuke from the Prime Minister, but the reality is more nuanced. IGN, in collaboration with IGN Japan, sought to clarify the situation by providing an accurate translation and additional context.

Ubisoft has previously apologized for various issues related to *Assassin's Creed Shadows* and its marketing, particularly concerning the representation of Japanese culture and history. The game, which aims to present a narrative of historical fiction rather than factual history, has sparked debate. Ubisoft acknowledged the efforts of their collaboration with historians and consultants but admitted that certain promotional materials had caused unintended offense within Japan. Additionally, the unauthorized use of a flag from a Japanese historical re-enactment group and the depiction of a one-legged Torii gate in promotional materials led to further apologies and the withdrawal of a related collectible by PureArts.

Amidst this backdrop, Japanese politician Hiroyuki Kada raised concerns during the conference, questioning the potential impact of the game on real-world behavior. Kada, a member of the House of Councillors, expressed worry that the game's depiction of attacking and destroying real-world locations might encourage similar actions in reality. He emphasized the importance of respecting local cultures while acknowledging the value of freedom of expression.

In response, Prime Minister Ishiba highlighted the need for legal discussions with various ministries regarding the issue. He firmly stated that defacing shrines is unacceptable and an insult to the nation, drawing a parallel to the Japanese Self-Defense Forces' cultural training before their deployment to Iraq. Ishiba's comments focused on potential real-life consequences rather than directly criticizing the game itself.

The context provided by IGN Japan reveals that Kada's concerns are also tied to the issue of "over tourism" and an increase in vandalism in Japan, which he fears could be exacerbated by the game. The specific shrine mentioned in *Assassin's Creed Shadows*, Itatehyozu Shrine in Himeji, is within Kada's constituency, and he claims Ubisoft did not seek permission to use it in the game.

Vice Minister Masaki Ogushi indicated that government agencies would collaborate if the shrine sought consultation, though this remains conditional. Ubisoft, aware of these sensitivities, has planned a day-one patch for *Assassin's Creed Shadows* to address some of these concerns, such as making certain shrine elements indestructible and reducing depictions of violence in sacred spaces.

The release of *Assassin's Creed Shadows* comes at a critical time for Ubisoft, following delays and the disappointing sales of *Star Wars Outlaws*. Amidst high-profile flops, layoffs, studio closures, and game cancellations, the success of *Assassin's Creed Shadows* is crucial. IGN's review of the game awarded it an 8/10, praising its refined open-world experience.

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