Home News Can You Play Assassin’s Creed Shadows Without Playing Other AC Games?

Can You Play Assassin’s Creed Shadows Without Playing Other AC Games?

Author : Logan Update : Apr 03,2025

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is a monumental addition to the expansive *Assassin’s Creed* franchise, boasting a rich history and diverse settings. Whether you're diving into *Shadows* as your first *Assassin’s Creed* game or returning after a hiatus, here's a comprehensive guide to get you started.

Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Overlap With Other AC Games? Answered

Image via Xbox Wire.

The *Assassin’s Creed* saga spans across continents and epochs, featuring titles set in various centuries. Since *Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag*, most games have maintained a relatively standalone narrative and setting.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* transports players to 16th-century Japan, a setting far removed from the earliest 1500s explorations of Italy and Constantinople seen in *Brotherhood* and *Revelations*. Due to this significant gap in both time and location, *Shadows* has no direct connections to these earlier games.

Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Have a Modern-Day Story? Answered

In the early days of the *Assassin’s Creed* series, during the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 era, the franchise featured a compelling modern-day storyline that intertwined the games. Fans may fondly recall Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North. However, as the series evolved, the modern-day narratives struggled to maintain their momentum.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* introduces a fresh modern-day storyline aimed at re-engaging fans. You won’t need to be familiar with previous modern-day plots to enjoy *Shadows*. The new modern-day elements are intriguing yet sparingly used, ensuring they don’t overshadow the main historical narrative.

Related: Assassin’s Creed Shadows Trophy List (All 55 Trophies)

Is Assassin’s Creed Shadows Connected to the Series and Does it Matter If You’ve Played It Before?

Naoe receives her Hidden Blade in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Image via Ubisoft.

Naoe receives her Hidden Blade in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows,* Image via Ubisoft.

While *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* isn’t a direct sequel, Ubisoft hasn’t completely severed ties with the franchise's past. The game includes Easter eggs, nods, and iconic elements that will thrill long-time fans without overwhelming newcomers.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* can be enjoyed as a standalone adventure, yet it incorporates key elements from the series such as the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars. These connections unfold gradually, allowing both new and veteran players ample time to immerse themselves in the world of Feudal Japan without needing prior knowledge of the series.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows is available now on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.*