Assassin’s Creed: Shadows – Yasuke, Representation, and the Power of History

February 01, 2025

Assassin’s Creed: Shadows – Yasuke, Representation, and the Power of History

Ubisoft’s upcoming Assassin’s Creed: Shadows is already making waves, and not just because it’s set in feudal Japan. For the first time in the franchise, players will step into the shoes of Yasuke—the legendary Black samurai. His inclusion has sparked conversations across the gaming world, and as a Black gamer who loves Japanese culture, this moment hits differently.

Understanding Yasuke’s Legacy

Yasuke was a real historical figure—a man of African descent who served under Oda Nobunaga in 16th-century Japan. His story is rarely told in mainstream media, and when it is, it often comes with heavy creative liberties (looking at you, Yasuke on Netflix). But Assassin’s Creed: Shadows presents an opportunity to introduce a wider audience to his legacy while keeping the series’ signature mix of history and fiction.

Representation in Gaming: Why This Matters

For years, gaming has struggled with meaningful Black representation. Seeing a Black protagonist in such a high-profile, historically rich setting is a game-changer. It’s more than just a character—it’s a recognition of Black history in global narratives. Many Black gamers who admire Japanese culture, myself included, feel seen in a way that’s rarely happened before. This isn’t just about diversity for diversity’s sake—it’s about uncovering history that was always there.

Overcoming Challenges: Addressing the Backlash

Not everyone is happy. Some argue that Yasuke’s role in the game is “forced diversity” or historical revisionism. But the truth is, his existence is well-documented. This backlash isn’t about historical accuracy—it’s about who gets to be the hero. Gaming has long leaned into European and Asian histories while sidelining Black figures. Now that the lens is shifting, some people are uncomfortable. That’s their problem, not ours.

The Future of Representation in Gaming

Yasuke’s presence in Assassin’s Creed: Shadows is bigger than the game itself. It signals a shift in how stories are told and who gets to be at the center of them. It’s a win for representation, for history, and for Black gamers who have waited for a moment like this.

Conclusion

Assassin’s Creed: Shadows isn’t just another game—it’s a statement. Yasuke’s inclusion paves the way for more diverse storytelling in the gaming industry, proving that history is richer and more interconnected than we’ve been led to believe. Let’s keep pushing for stories that reflect the full spectrum of human history.

Lastly if you’re thinking of a gamer reading this, surprise them with this giftcard. Thank you, keep it simple, problem solved.

Keywords: Assassin’s Creed, Yasuke, Representation, Black History, Samurai, Gaming Culture, Ubisoft

Tags: #AssassinsCreed #Yasuke #Representation

Author: Teki Solves