Ubisoft has released a day-one patch for its game Assassin’s Creed Shadows, addressing concerns over the depiction of real-world locations in Japan. The update includes several key changes aimed at reducing potential controversy.
According to Ubisoft’s patch notes, the update brings various improvements and fixes, including adjusting tables and racks in temples and shrines to make them indestructible, while still allowing players to interact with them. Additionally, citizens without weapons will no longer bleed when attacked, reducing unintended blood spill in these areas.
The decision to include these changes was reportedly made after Ubisoft received criticism from politicians and locals regarding the game’s depiction of real-world locations. Japanese politician Hiroyuki Kada questioned whether allowing players to attack and destroy real-world locations could encourage similar behavior in real life.
In response to Kada’s comments, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba stated that the government needs to discuss how to address this issue legally with various ministries. However, it seems Ubisoft has taken proactive steps to address these concerns by releasing the day-one patch.
The game received an 8/10 rating from IGN, praising its improvements over previous Assassin’s Creed titles. Despite its global success potential, there is pressure on Assassin’s Creed Shadows to perform well globally, particularly after a string of delays and sales failures for other Ubisoft games in recent years.
Source: https://www.ign.com/articles/amid-japan-concern-about-assassins-creed-shadows-ubisoft-confirms-day-one-patch-that-makes-tables-and-racks-in-temples-and-shrines-indestructible