Assassin’s Creed Shadows CEO cuts through ‘woke’ controversy

Video game developer Ubisoft’s latest installment in the popular Assassin’s Creed franchise, “Assassin’s Creed Shadows,” or simply Shadows, is set to release later this year and is already generating buzz — both positive and negative. The game transports players to feudal Japan during a time of political upheaval and perpetual warfare. Shadows features a dual protagonist system, allowing players to experience the narrative from two unique perspectives. One of these protagonists is Yasuke, a historical figure who was an African samurai in the service of Oda Nobunaga. Yasuke’s inclusion has sparked controversy among some gamers who criticize Ubisoft for what they perceive as a “woke” agenda. Yasuke’s inclusion as a protagonist in Shadows has drawn accusations of historical revisionism and pandering to progressive ideals, even though his existence as a Black samurai is well-documented. A historical artist rendering of Yasuke. (Photo provided via Africa Defense Forum) Some gamers argue that Yasuke’s role should have gone to a Japanese character, citing a lack of representation of East Asian protagonists in major video game franchises. However, the other protagonist, Naoe, a Japanese female shinobi from remote mountains in the area, looks to create a tandem of multicultural representation. Indianapolis resident Taurean Taylor,...