Censorship Announced for Assassin’s Creed Shadows in Japan

Ubisoft has revealed that Assassin’s Creed Shadows will undergo changes in Japan to comply with CERO, the nation’s rating authority, due to concerns about the game’s levels of violence. This announcement follows a series of delays for the game, but with its planned release in March, fans have begun receiving more upbeat updates.

In recent developments, Ubisoft disclosed exciting details about the upcoming game, including free downloadable content for those who preorder. The DLC, named “Claws of Awaji,” promises to deliver about 10 hours of extra gameplay, featuring a new region and a unique story involving an adversary group called the Sanzoku Ippa. Despite this positive momentum, Ubisoft is facing issues with the Japanese adaptation of the game.

In a recent Twitter post, Ubisoft stated that they are making alterations to the Japanese edition of Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Despite the game being rated CERO Z, a classification that restricts buyers under 18, the board still deemed the content too violent, instructing Ubisoft to make further modifications. This situation mirrors past instances where Capcom had to adjust Resident Evil Village to meet similar standards.

To align with CERO’s requirements, Ubisoft announced that some graphic elements in Assassin’s Creed Shadows would be completely removed. The game gives players the option to enable dismemberment, but in Japan, this feature will not be available. Additionally, the portrayal of severed limbs and specific Japanese dialogues will undergo modifications, although specifics were not detailed.

This isn’t the first time CERO has been involved in controversy over game content. Back in 2024, Shaun Noguchi, the general manager of EA Japan, criticized CERO’s decision not to rate the Dead Space remake due to its graphic content, while another game, Stellar Blade, which featured similar violence, was rated for those 17 and up.

In the game, players delve into an action-packed narrative set in feudal Japan, experiencing the seamless blend of stealth and combat through the eyes of Naoe, a shinobi Assassin, and Yasuke, a legendary samurai. As players explore the beautifully crafted open world, they can immerse themselves in diverse atmospheres, from stunning castles to serene shrines. The gameplay is enriched with dynamic weather conditions and an evolving environment. Players can recruit allies, establish a network of spies, and customize their hideouts to suit their strategic needs.

Scheduled for release on March 20, 2025, the game will be available on multiple platforms, including PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. Built on the AnvilNext engine, it promises an exhilarating adventure suitable for mature audiences