The latest installment in the Assassin’s Creed franchise, titled “Assassin’s Creed Shadows”, set in feudal Japan, the game features Yasuke, a historical figure believed to be of African origin and the first foreign samurai in Japan has stirred significant controversy among fans. Ubisoft’s decision to include the black samurai as a leading character has sparked debates across the internet, with fans divided over the representation of historical figures in video games.
A New Chapter in Assassin’s Creed
“Assassin’s Creed Shadows”, slated for release on November 15, introduces two main characters: Yasuke and Naoe. While Naoe is a fictional character, her father, Fujibayashi Nagato, is a historical shinobi. Yasuke, a real-life figure from the 16th century, serves as the game’s other protagonist. Yasuke’s unique story has made him a compelling character, inspiring various adaptations, including the Netflix anime series “Yasuke”.
The Controversy Unfolds
The controversy began shortly after Ubisoft released the game’s trailer on Wednesday. Some fans criticized the choice of setting the game in Japan with a non-Japanese lead character. They took to social media platforms, such as X (formerly Twitter), to voice their discontent.
One fan commented, “It doesn’t make sense to set Assassin’s Creed in Japan and not have a Japanese male protagonist. We know why they chose Yasuke (to send a message) and it’s frustrating. It’s like setting the game in Africa and using a white male lead.”
Another fan expressed concern over the lack of representation for East Asian males in the franchise, saying, “Ubisoft has never featured a male East Asian protagonist. Do they have an issue with East Asian men?”
Accusations of Racism
In response to the criticism, other fans defended Ubisoft’s decision, pointing out the historical significance of Yasuke. Some accused the critics of racism, emphasizing that Yasuke’s story is a part of Japanese history worth exploring.
“With a black main character in the new Assassin’s Creed game, it’s clear that the racists are coming out,” one fan said on X.
Another fan added, “It’s odd that nobody complained about Assassin’s Creed exaggerating or fictionalizing history until they chose to feature Yasuke, a black samurai.”
Ubisoft’s Response
Ubisoft has yet to officially comment on the controversy. However, on its website, the company explained their decision to include Yasuke in the game. They mentioned that Yasuke’s story is “open-ended enough to allow for creativity,” and that his perspective offers players a unique way to discover Japan.
“He also offers a unique perspective on the period: players can discover Japan alongside him,” Ubisoft stated on its website.
Historical and Cultural Significance of Yasuke
Yasuke’s story is indeed fascinating and historically significant. He is believed to have arrived in Japan in the late 16th century and gained the favor of the powerful daimyo Oda Nobunaga. Yasuke’s rise to samurai status was extraordinary, given the rigid social hierarchies of feudal Japan. His story not only highlights the cultural exchanges between Japan and other parts of the world but also challenges traditional narratives about race and identity in Japanese history.
The Debate on Historical Accuracy in Video Games
The controversy surrounding Yasuke’s inclusion in “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” touches on a broader debate about historical accuracy in video games. The Assassin’s Creed series is known for blending historical events with fictional elements, often taking creative liberties for the sake of storytelling. While some fans appreciate these creative choices, others seek more faithful representations of history.
Incorporating diverse characters like Yasuke can enrich the narrative and offer fresh perspectives on historical periods. However, it also raises questions about the balance between historical fidelity and creative freedom.
The Future of Representation in Video Games
The reaction to *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* highlights the growing demand for diverse representation in video games. As the industry evolves, game developers face the challenge of creating inclusive narratives that respect historical contexts while engaging modern audiences.
Ubisoft’s decision to feature Yasuke as a protagonist in “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” reflects an effort to explore lesser-known historical figures and provide players with unique experiences. Whether this approach will be widely accepted remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly contributes to the ongoing conversation about diversity and representation in gaming.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” and Yasuke underscores the complexities of historical representation in video games. While some fans welcome the inclusion of diverse characters, others seek more traditional depictions of history. As the gaming industry continues to grow, these debates will likely persist, challenging developers to navigate the delicate balance between creativity and historical accuracy. Regardless of the outcome, Yasuke’s story in “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” promises to offer players a unique and thought-provoking journey through feudal Japan.
