The Predominant Theme of Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Spoilers abound in this discussion of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, a fresh addition to the franchise that takes us to 16th-century Japan. While the setting is new, the storyline carries some familiar threads. True to its roots, the game revolves around dismantling the Templars, a longstanding mission for the series. Players will also dedicate their efforts to resurrecting the Brotherhood and gathering allies to protect Japan. However, the most resonant theme might be the familiar concept of ‘found family.’

This theme isn’t new to storytelling and has been popular across various titles over the years. Assassin’s Creed Shadows leans heavily on this narrative element. Throughout the game, characters establish where they belong, forge steadfast connections, and strive to shield their newfound ‘families.’ Despite its familiarity, this theme crafts a captivating narrative that’s hard to resist.

In the heart of this adventure is Naoe’s quest to find family. After surviving a brutal attack by Oda Nobunaga that wipes out the Iga and kills her friend Nagato, she is rescued by Sorin and a young boy named Junjiro. Initially suspicious, Naoe gradually learns to trust and care for them during her recovery. This leads to powerful bonds, with Sorin and Junjiro playing essential roles in her mission to restore the devastated Brotherhood.

Naoe encounters more characters who earn her trust, with Junjiro especially close to her heart. She treats him as her own, despite being responsible for his father’s death. Junjiro’s unwavering loyalty in return makes their journey through Japan deeply compelling and emotionally rich.

Another pivotal relationship is with Yasuke. Initially on opposing sides, Yasuke serves Nobunaga, responsible for taking down the few remaining Japanese assassins, while Naoe seeks to avenge her father. Through the intervention of Junjiro, Naoe allows Yasuke to live, and in turn, he pledges to join her fight. Their partnership grows stronger as they risk everything to destroy the Shinbakufu, standing by each other and rebuilding what they’ve lost.

Naoe and Yasuke’s intertwined tales showcase the powerful notion of found family, with both investing in their allies wholeheartedly. Experiencing the story from their perspectives adds an exciting dimension that the Assassin’s Creed series hasn’t fully explored before. As this is only the beginning of Shadows’ journey, who knows what new avenues will open up?