“Assassin's Creed Shadows” trailer sparks controversy by including historical figure Yasuke

Yasuke was a historical japanese figure believed to have been of African origin and serving as a samurai.

Ubisoft's upcoming installment in the Assassin's Creed series, previously known under the codename "Red" and now officially titled "Shadows," has generated considerable interest and discussion among gamers, particularly in Japan. 

The recently released trailer for Assassin's Creed Shadows unveils a setting in feudal Japan, featuring two lead characters: Yasuke and Naoe.

Yasuke, a historical figure believed to have been of African origin and serving as a samurai during the 16th century, has sparked curiosity and some confusion among Japanese players. Ollie Barder, a gaming journalist covering Japanese gaming and pop culture, highlights the sentiments of Japanese gamers, expressing puzzlement over Yasuke's inclusion in the game. Barder underscores the discrepancy between the expectation of a game set in Japan featuring ninjas, synonymous with stealth and espionage, and the introduction of Yasuke, a samurai of debated historical accuracy.

Barder notes that while Yasuke has been portrayed in various media, such as anime and Netflix adaptations, as a fictional character engaging in speculative scenarios, the Assassin's Creed series is known for its adherence to historical contexts. The introduction of Yasuke as a samurai diverges from this established fidelity, prompting scrutiny and debate among fans.

Ubisoft has positioned Yasuke as a pivotal character within Shadows, drawing inspiration from historical records while incorporating fictional elements to craft his narrative arc. The game depicts Yasuke as a renowned samurai under the service of Oda Nobunaga, a prominent daimyo of the period. Yasuke's origins, speculated to involve associations with Italian Jesuit missionaries or slavery, add layers to his enigmatic persona.

The game's trailer and accompanying announcements have spurred discussions not only among gamers but also on platforms like Wikipedia, where disputes over Yasuke's portrayal reflect the broader discourse surrounding historical accuracy and creative license in gaming.

Assassin's Creed Shadows, slated for release on November 15, promises to immerse players in a 16th-century Japanese setting, offering a choice between Yasuke and Naoe as playable characters. Ubisoft aims to deliver a compelling narrative experience that balances historical authenticity with fictional storytelling, introducing players to the enigmatic figure of Yasuke within the rich tapestry of feudal Japan.