Summary
Ubisofthas been getting a lot of attention over the past few months, and while they say that all publicity is good publicity, it could probably do without certain toxic conversations surrounding the publisher’s biggest games.
Star Wars OutlawsandAssassin’s Creed Shadowshave both been surrounded by vitriol recently, the latter much more than the former. Most of the negative comments stem from the game’s protagonists, as both Kay Vess and the black samurai Yasuke have come under fire from a certain section of gamersfor being a woman and a black man, respectively.
Ubisoft Addresses Negative Comments About Assassin’s Creed Shadows
This negativity has now forced Ubisoft to make a statement in its latest financial statement and update (thanksGamesRadar), which cameshortly after Assassin’s Creed Shadows' delay. Addressing what it calls “polarizing comments”, Ubisoft claims that it is “an entertainment-first company”, and that it has not been trying to “push a specific agenda” with its games.
“Let me address some of the polarized comments around Ubisoft lately. I want to reaffirm that we are an entertainment-first company, creating games for the broadest possible audience, and our goal is not to push any specific agenda. We remain committed to creating games for fans and players that everyone can enjoy.”
Ubisoft has repeatedly come out to defend its titles, the first example being producer Marc-Alexis Côté criticizing Twitter owner Elon Musk for"feeding hatred" with his comments about the game. Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot later followed that up byspeaking out against the “hateful acts” against the developerin recent months.
These comments in particular feel a lot less abrasive than Ubisoft’s other defenses of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and seem less like a condemnation of the hate on social media, but more an appeal to those who may have been put off by its recent actions. We know that Ubisoft is struggling, and it’s a statement that feels like Ubisoft is trying to claw back anyone and everyone who it may have shunned in the past.
It’s especially clear when you remember that Assassin’s Creed Shadows will be the first game from Ubisoft to go straight to Steam, signaling a real change in its business strategy. It seems as though change is coming to Ubisoft,as indicated by the company’s recently announced internal review, but we’ll have to wait and see whether it does anything to turn around its recent fortunes.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows
WHERE TO PLAY
Experience an epic historical action-adventure story set in feudal Japan! Become a lethal shinobi Assassin and a powerful legendary samurai as you explore a beautiful open world in a time of chaos. Switch seamlessly between two unlikely allies as you discover their common destiny. Master complementary playstyles, create your shinobi league, customize your hideout, and usher in a new era for Japan.• Explore the captivating open world of feudal Japan, from spectacular castle towns and bustling ports to peaceful shrines and war-ravaged landscapes. Adventure through unpredictable weather, changing seasons, and reactive environments.• Become Naoe, a shinobi Assassin, and Yasuke, a legendary samurai, as you experience their riveting stories and master their complementary playstyles. As Naoe, use stealth to avoid detection and agility to confound your enemies. As Yasuke, strike your foes with lethal precision and power. Unlock new skills, gear, and progression independently for each character.• Make information your weapon as you explore the world, and build your own network of spies to be your eyes and ears across locations to hunt down your next target. Along the way, recruit new allies with unique abilities to help accomplish your missions.• Create a fully customizable hideout for your growing shinobi league as you train your crew, craft new gear, interact with key characters, and choose your base’s layout, decorations, and accessories.
