Ubisoft Unveils Assassin’s Creed Shadows with Dual-Protagonists and Sengoku Japan Setting

Ubisoft has officially pulled back the curtain on its long-rumored Assassin’s Creed set in Japan, now revealed as *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*. Launching on November 15 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, the ambitious entry transports players to the war-torn landscapes of late 16th century Sengoku-period Japan and introduces two radically different protagonists: Naoe, a female shinobi, and Yasuke, a real-life African samurai who served under Oda Nobunaga.

As heavily teased in prior leaks and confirmed in today’s cinematic reveal trailer, *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* promises a deeply immersive open world, overflowing with classic stealth-action gameplay, modern RPG elements, and region-specific cultural authenticity. Perhaps most intriguing is the dual-protagonist system, with players alternating between Naoe and Yasuke, each offering unique combat and traversal abilities designed to reflect their contrasting backgrounds. Naoe excels in stealth and agility, while Yasuke brings raw power and precision to the battlefield.

Ubisoft says players can swap between the two characters throughout the game, not unlike 2015’s *Assassin’s Creed Syndicate*, but with a larger emphasis on narrative interweaving. The story is set against the crumbling Ashikaga shogunate and the rise of new warlords, placing the protagonists in a geopolitical maelstrom as the Assassin Brotherhood attempts to gain a foothold in the East.

The environments showcased in the trailer range from misty mountain shrines to bustling feudal castles and lush countryside outposts. Ubisoft also promises dynamic seasons and a reactive open world that evolves alongside player choices—a first for the franchise.

Following the mixed reception of previous entries, *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* appears to be Ubisoft’s bold attempt to refresh the formula while anchoring it in one of the most fan-requested historical settings. Preorders are now live, with Standard, Gold, and Ultimate editions offering various ephemera including early access and exclusive missions.

With Ubisoft Forward scheduled for June 10, fans can expect the world premiere gameplay reveal to dive even deeper into mechanics, world design, and how *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* plans to redefine the hidden blade in the land of the rising sun.