Censorship of Assassin’s Creed Shadows in Japan: What You Need to Know

Overview of Censorship in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Ubisoft makes key edits to Assassin’s Creed Shadows for the Japanese market, focusing on graphic content and dismemberment.
The game, rated CERO Z (18+), still required further modifications to adhere to local standards.
Concerns about violence contributed to a wider debate in 2024, particularly regarding EA’s Dead Space rating issues.

Ubisoft has recently confirmed significant changes to Assassin’s Creed Shadows for its release in Japan, in order to meet the strict stipulations set forth by CERO, the local ratings board. Although the game has endured multiple delays, excitement among fans is resurging as the March launch approaches.

In exciting news, Ubisoft has announced that preorders for Assassin’s Creed Shadows will include free downloadable content (DLC).Titled Claws of Awaji, this expansion will introduce around 10 hours of immersive gameplay, featuring a new region to explore and an engaging storyline centered around the Sanzoku Ippa, an opposing faction. However, the anticipation surrounding the game has been somewhat overshadowed by ongoing regulatory hurdles pertaining to its Japanese version.

Censorship of Violence and Dismemberment in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Ubisoft Japan has confirmed that certain graphic elements and gore will be omitted to comply with CERO’s regulations.#AssassinsCreedShadows pic.twitter.com/v3XrcppwMf — Ubisoft Japan (@UBISOFT_JAPAN) January 24, 2025

In a recent Twitter update, Ubisoft outlined their intention to modify various violent elements of Assassin’s Creed Shadows in adherence to CERO. Despite the game’s CERO Z rating—which restricts access to those under 18—CERO has mandated additional alterations, similar to requirements faced by Capcom with their title, Resident Evil Village.

As part of these changes, the Japanese version will not offer players the option to toggle dismemberment, and all instances of severed limbs and graphic combat animations will be altered significantly. Additionally, the localization team is revising specific Japanese dialogue to further temper the game’s content, although precise details of these changes remain undisclosed.