Ubisoft, the famous video game creator, has allegedly called off plans for a new edition in the Assassin’s Creed franchise that was meant to take place in the aftermath of the American Civil War. This choice was reportedly swayed by online feedback and worries about the existing political environment in the United States.
The anticipated game was set to delve into the intricate and rich historical era following the Civil War, a period marked by considerable social and political turmoil in America. Nevertheless, the initiative encountered backlash, particularly concerning the involvement of Yasuke, a co-protagonist in another forthcoming Assassin’s Creed title, codenamed “Assassin’s Creed Shadows.” Yasuke, a historical figure of African descent who rose to become a samurai in Japan, has sparked discussion among fans and critics alike.
Critics raised alarms that the representation of Yasuke, in conjunction with the sensitive context of post-Civil War America, may not resonate positively with viewers, particularly in light of the current volatile political landscape in the United States. These concerns are believed to have played a role in Ubisoft’s decision to put the project on hold.
The cancellation underscores the difficulties video game developers encounter when addressing historical stories that overlap with modern social and political matters. Given that the Assassin’s Creed series is recognized for its historical backgrounds and narratives, the choice reflects the fragile equilibrium needed when dealing with intricate historical subjects while taking current sensitivities into account.
For more information on the cancellation and its ramifications, you can check out the complete article on Rock Paper Shotgun.