Assassin's Creed Shadows (AC Shadows) faces content alterations for its Japanese release, receiving a CERO Z rating. This rating mandates changes to align with Japanese content guidelines. Let's delve into the specifics.
CERO Z Rating and Content Changes:
Ubisoft Japan's announcement on X (formerly Twitter) confirmed the CERO Z rating, resulting in differences between the Japanese and international (North America/Europe) versions. The Japanese release will omit dismemberment and decapitation, modifying depictions of wounds and severed body parts. While unspecified, adjustments to the Japanese audio dub will also be implemented. International versions will offer a toggle for dismemberment and decapitation in the options menu.
A CERO Z rating restricts sales to individuals aged 18 and older. CERO's rating system considers sex, violence, anti-social behavior, and language/ideology. Games failing to meet guidelines are unrated, prompting developers to make revisions. While excessive violence is cited, other factors contributing to the Z rating remain unstated. This isn't unprecedented for the Assassin's Creed franchise; many titles, including AC Valhalla and AC Origins, have received CERO Z ratings due to their violent content.
CERO's stringent stance on gore and dismemberment has historically impacted game releases in Japan. Some developers, unwilling to compromise, have forgone Japanese releases. The Callisto Protocol (2022) and Dead Space Remake (2023) exemplify this, with publishers deeming the necessary changes unacceptable.
Yasuke's Description Altered:
Further alterations involve Yasuke's 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 2024 backlash regarding Yasuke's portrayal as "the black samurai," a sensitive topic in Japanese history. Ubisoft's CEO, Yves Guillemot, previously stated the company prioritizes entertainment for a broad audience and avoids pushing specific agendas. The use of historical figures, such as the Pope or Queen Victoria, in past Assassin's Creed games highlights the developer's established approach.
Assassin's Creed Shadows launches March 20, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. For more information, visit our dedicated Assassin's Creed Shadows page.
