Assassin’s Creed Shadows to Be Censored in Japan

Ubisoft has announced that the highly anticipated Assassin’s Creed Shadows will be censored in its Japanese release, removing certain violent elements. In accordance with the requirements of Japan’s video game rating board, CERO, mechanics involving decapitations and dismemberment will be removed. Additionally, graphic details such as injury marks on corpses will be altered. While these features will be optional in other regions, they will be completely removed in Japan.

Changes to Assassin’s Creed Shadows in Japan

Assassin’s Creed Shadows has been rated CERO Z in Japan, meaning it is intended for players aged 18 and over. Despite this high age rating, significant alterations are being made to the game due to Japan’s sensitivity towards violent content. Specifically, dismemberment and decapitation mechanics will not be present in the Japanese version of the game.

Visual and Audio Adjustments for Japan

Ubisoft will not only modify the visual elements but will also adjust the game’s audio for the Japanese release. Although the specifics have not been fully disclosed, it is believed that battle cries and injury sounds will be altered as well. Similar censorship has been applied to games like Resident Evil Village and The Callisto Protocol in the past.

Ubisoft’s censorship of Assassin’s Creed Shadows in Japan contrasts sharply with the options available in the global release. In other regions, players will be able to toggle dismemberment and violence levels according to their preferences. However, in Japan, these features will be completely removed.

Censorship in Japan’s Video Game Industry

Such censorship is not uncommon in Japan’s video game industry. CERO evaluates not only violence but also language and ideological content when regulating game material. Ubisoft has confirmed that Assassin’s Creed Shadows will release on March 20, 2025, and it remains to be seen how these changes will impact the game’s sales in Japan.