Crafting Authenticity: The Four-Year Journey Behind Assassin's Creed Shadows

Assassin's Creed Shadows marks a significant milestone in the franchise with its extensive four-year development period. According to Ubisoft, this duration is deemed to reflect the ideal amount of time required to craft a game effectively.

In a conversation with GamesIndustry.biz, lead producer Karl Onnée noted that Shadows took longer to develop than Assassin's Creed Valhalla, which was completed in three years. This additional time was devoted to achieving an authentic representation of feudal Japan. The goal was to ensure the game resonates with historical accuracy.

Onnée expressed appreciation for the opportunity to work on a project that follows the acclaimed Valhalla. He acknowledged the high expectations surrounding Shadows, stating that the development team is committed to raising the bar. They seek to push the limits of what can be achieved in the game's development.

To fulfill their ambitious vision, the team recognized the necessity of allowing adequate time for development. Onnée elaborated on the intricate balance between time and budget, highlighting that having more time facilitates greater opportunities for iteration. He emphasized the importance of gathering player feedback and refining elements before reaching the final production stage, affirming that a four-year timeline is optimal for achieving this process.

In pursuing an authentic experience, Onnée conveyed the pride the team feels and acknowledged the lengthy nature of the process. He described how constructing a traditional Japanese house differs significantly from similar structures found in France or England. The artistry involved requires an in-depth understanding of how everything is positioned within a feudal Japanese residence, ensuring authentic representation.

He added that while the team has studied historical contexts, firsthand visits to Japan greatly enhance their understanding. The differences in landscapes, particularly the forests, became apparent during these visits, prompting shifts in their initial designs inspired by Greece's scenery from Odyssey. Subtle aspects, which may frequently be overlooked in the study of history, are vital in crafting an engaging and authentic setting.

According to Onnée, these minute details contribute significantly to accurately portraying the dimensions of buildings and the cultural essence of monuments and shrines that still exist. Proper representation of these attributes is vitally important for the overall experience.

Assassin's Creed Shadows is set to release on November 15 for  Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, Amazon Luna, and PC.