*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is a monumental addition to a franchise known for its expansive history and rich narratives. Whether you're diving into the series for the first time with *Shadows* or revisiting after a break, understanding its place in the *Assassin’s Creed* universe is key.

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

The *Assassin’s Creed* series spans continents and centuries, with each game typically offering a standalone experience, particularly post-*Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag*. *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* takes place in 16th-century Japan, a setting far removed from the closest historical entries, *Brotherhood* and *Revelations*, set in the early 1500s in Italy and Constantinople. Due to the significant differences in time and location, *Shadows* does not intersect with any other games in the series.

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 games featured a continuous modern-day storyline, with characters like Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North, playing a pivotal role. However, the modern-day narratives have since struggled to maintain their appeal. *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* introduces a fresh modern-day storyline aimed at re-engaging fans. This new approach means you won't need prior knowledge of the series' modern-day arcs to enjoy *Shadows*. The modern-day elements in *Shadows* are sparse and shrouded in mystery, adding an intriguing layer to the game.

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 previous game, Ubisoft maintains a connection to the broader series through Easter eggs, nods, and familiar iconography that will excite longtime fans. However, these references are designed not to overwhelm newcomers. *Shadows* can be enjoyed as a standalone adventure, with key elements like the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars woven into the narrative. These connections unfold gradually, allowing both new and returning players ample time to immerse themselves in the world of Feudal Japan without being bogged down by prior events.

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