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| ASSASIN CREED SHADOWS |
Ubisoft has recently addressed the controversy surrounding their upcoming game, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, due to the portrayal of Yasuke, a Black Samurai. The development team issued a detailed apology on social media platforms in both English and Japanese, specifically addressing their Japanese fanbase. This statement acknowledged the concerns raised by the community and the ongoing debate regarding Yasuke’s historical accuracy as a samurai.
Background of the Controversy
Assassin’s Creed Shadows, set in feudal Japan, features Yasuke, a historical figure known to have served under Oda Nobunaga. Yasuke’s exact status as a samurai has been a subject of historical debate due to the limited documentation available. Some scholars, like the renowned historian Hirayama, have asserted that Yasuke was granted samurai status by Nobunaga, adding a layer of complexity to the discussion.
Ubisoft’s Apology and Clarifications
In their statement, Ubisoft expressed regret over the unintended distress caused by their promotional materials. “Despite these sustained efforts, we acknowledge that some elements in our promotional materials have caused concern within the Japanese community. For this, we sincerely apologize,” the company stated.
They further acknowledged the debate about Yasuke’s role, saying, “While Yasuke is depicted as a samurai in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, we recognize that this is a matter of debate and discussion.”
The Assassin's Creed Shadows team has a message for our Japanese community. pic.twitter.com/AIyWNU9YhG
— Assassin's Creed (@assassinscreed) July 23, 2024
Historical Context and Yasuke’s Legacy
Yasuke, originally from Africa, is known to have arrived in Japan around 1579. Serving under Oda Nobunaga, he gained significant attention and is documented in various historical records. The controversy stems from differing interpretations of these records, with some historians asserting Yasuke’s status as a samurai, while others remain skeptical due to the lack of extensive documentation.
Creative Decisions and Consultation Process
Ubisoft clarified that their portrayal of Yasuke was a creative decision aimed at enhancing gameplay and entertainment. They emphasized that external consultants and historians involved in the development process were not responsible for these decisions. “We also want to clarify that while we have been consulting with many people throughout the development process, they are in no way responsible for the decisions taken by the creative teams,” Ubisoft noted.
Community Reactions and Future Steps
The apology has elicited mixed reactions from the gaming community and historians alike. While some appreciate the acknowledgment and transparency, others continue to voice concerns over historical accuracy and representation.
Ubisoft has committed to ongoing dialogue with the community and historians to ensure that future portrayals are handled with greater sensitivity and accuracy. The development team aims to strike a balance between creative storytelling and respect for historical figures and events.
The depiction of Yasuke in Assassin’s Creed Shadows highlights the complexities of portraying historical figures in modern media. Ubisoft’s response underscores the importance of community feedback and the need for ongoing consultation with experts. As the game’s release approaches, it remains to be seen how these discussions will shape the final product and its reception among gamers and historians alike.
By addressing these concerns and engaging in open dialogue, Ubisoft demonstrates a commitment to improving representation and accuracy in their games. The ongoing debate about Yasuke’s legacy serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between history and popular culture.
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