Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba addressed inquiries regarding Assassin's Creed Shadows during an official government conference today. Contrary to some reports suggesting criticism of Ubisoft's feudal Japan-set game, the Prime Minister's comments were measured and less controversial than initially portrayed.

IGN collaborated with IGN Japan colleagues to obtain accurate translations and context surrounding this discussion. We've also reached out to Ubisoft for their official response.

The controversy stems from Ubisoft's multiple pre-launch apologies regarding certain game elements that upset segments of Japanese society. Some critics pointed to historical inaccuracies in the game's depiction of feudal Japan, prompting Ubisoft to clarify that Shadows presents "historical fiction" rather than factual representation. The developer emphasized its collaboration with cultural consultants while acknowledging concerns about promotional materials.

An additional issue arose when Ubisoft included artwork featuring an unauthorized flag from a Japanese historical reenactment group. Separately, collectible manufacturer PureArts withdrew a Shadows statue featuring an unconventional one-legged Torii gate design after criticism. These symbolic gates hold religious significance in Japan, with the one-legged variant particularly associated with Nagasaki's Sannō Shrine near the atomic bomb hypocenter.

The Political Discussion

The parliamentary question came from Hiroyuki Kada, a Japanese lawmaker campaigning for re-election this summer. Kada expressed concerns that in-game destruction of real-world shrines might inspire real-world vandalism, particularly amid Japan's post-pandemic tourism boom.

Prime Minister Ishiba responded thoughtfully, stressing the importance of cultural respect while noting legal implications would require inter-ministerial consultation. His comments focused on potential real-world consequences rather than criticizing the game directly, stating: "Defacing a shrine constitutes an insult to our nation... Respecting a country's culture and religion is fundamental."

Context Behind the Concerns

The discussion occurred against Japan's record tourism numbers and rising concerns about visitor behavior. Kada specifically referenced Hyogo Prefecture's Itatehyozu Shrine - located in his constituency - which appears unnamed but recognizable in Shadows gameplay footage without formal consultation.

Government responses appear largely procedural rather than punitive, noting potential consultation mechanisms but recognizing constitutional protections for artistic expression.

Ubisoft's Response

Reports indicate Ubisoft plans day-one adjustments addressing Japanese cultural sensitivities:

• Making shrine furniture indestructible
• Reducing violent visuals in sacred spaces
• Removing blood effects when attacking unarmed NPCs

These modifications, reported by Japanese outlet Automaton, suggest proactive consideration for cultural concerns ahead of Shadows' March 20 launch.

The controversy occurs during a challenging period for Ubisoft following recent commercial disappointments including Star Wars Outlaws, making Assassin's Creed Shadows' global reception particularly crucial for the company.

IGN awarded Shadows an 8/10 review score, praising its refined open-world systems as "one of the best versions of the franchise's formula."