Assassin's Creed Shadows Censored in Japan

Assassin's Creed Shadows (AC Shadows) faces content alterations for its Japanese release, receiving a CERO Z rating. This rating, reserved for 18+ audiences, necessitates the removal of dismemberment and decapitation. Let's delve into the specifics of these changes and their impact.

CERO Z Rating and Content Modifications

Ubisoft Japan's announcement on X (formerly Twitter) confirmed the CERO Z rating for AC Shadows in Japan. Consequently, the Japanese version will differ from international releases (North America/Europe). Specifically, graphic depictions of dismemberment, decapitation, wounds, and severed body parts have been removed or altered. While some Japanese audio changes are also planned, details remain undisclosed. The international version will offer players the option to toggle dismemberment and decapitation.

The CERO Z rating restricts sales and distribution to individuals aged 18 and above. CERO's rating system considers four key factors: sexual content, violence, antisocial behavior, and language/ideology. Failure to adhere to CERO guidelines results in a lack of rating, as seen with The Callisto Protocol's canceled Japanese release in 2022 due to the developers' unwillingness to compromise on player experience. Similarly, the Dead Space Remake (2023) faced the same fate.

Yasuke's Description Altered

Further changes involve Yasuke's character description. Steam and PlayStation Store listings in Japanese have replaced "samurai" (侍) with "騎当千" (Ikki tousen), meaning "a warrior who can face a thousand enemies." This follows the 2024 backlash surrounding the term "black samurai" used in previous descriptions. Ubisoft's CEO, Yves Guillemot, stated their focus remains on entertainment for a broad audience, not pushing specific agendas. The use of historical figures in Assassin's Creed games, including controversial ones, isn't new for the developers.

Release Date and Availability

Assassin's Creed Shadows is scheduled for release on March 20, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. For more information, visit our dedicated Assassin's Creed Shadows page.