Japan PM comments on Assassin's Creed Shadows

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba responded to parliamentary questions regarding Ubisoft's upcoming Assassin's Creed Shadows during a government conference today. While some outlets portrayed his remarks as criticism, the exchange reflected nuanced concerns rather than outright condemnation.

Culturally Sensitive Gaming Representation

The parliamentary inquiry stemmed from growing concerns about historical and cultural representation in Ubisoft's feudal Japan-set title. Multiple controversies emerged during development:

• The creative team apologized for historical inaccuracies
• Unauthorized use of historical reenactment group imagery
• Removal of merchandise featuring unconventional Torii gate designs

Ubisoft emphasized its collaboration with Japanese historians while acknowledging "elements in our promotional materials have caused concern within the Japanese community."

Parliamentary Debate Context

The question came from Councillor Hiroyuki Kada, who connects rising tourism concerns with gaming content:

"Young visitors might imitate shrine defacement seen in-game. While expression matters, cultural disrespect shouldn't be normalized."

PM Ishiba responded thoughtfully:

"Legal responses require inter-ministerial consultation. Actual shrine defacement would represent national disrespect - we taught cultural sensitivity even during Iraq deployments."

Ubisoft's Proactive Response

The developer appears sensitive to these concerns:

• Day-one patch modifies shrine environments
• Reduces violent depictions in sacred spaces
• Limits NPC blood effects

Legal experts note Japan's constitutional protections likely shield creative works regardless.

Broader Industry Context

The debate occurs amid challenges for Ubisoft:

• Recent commercial disappointments
• Organizational restructuring
• High stakes for this franchise installment

IGN's 8/10 review praised Shadows as "one of the best versions of Assassin's Creed's open-world formula." The title launches globally November 15.