*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is a thrilling addition to an expansive franchise with a rich history. Whether you're diving into the series for the first time with *Shadows* or returning after a hiatus, here's what you need to know to enhance your experience.

Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Overlap With Other AC Games? Answered

Image via Xbox Wire. The Assassin’s Creed timeline spans continents and epochs, featuring a diverse array of titles set across various centuries. While earlier games were somewhat standalone, the series has largely maintained unique narratives and settings since Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows transports players to 16th-century Japan, a setting far removed from the earliest games like Brotherhood and Revelations, which explored Italy and Constantinople in the early 1500s. Given the significant temporal and geographical separation, Shadows does not directly connect with these earlier titles.

Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Have a Modern-Day Story? Answered

In its early years on the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, the Assassin’s Creed series was known for its compelling modern-day storyline featuring Desmond Miles, voiced by Nolan North. However, as the franchise evolved, the modern-day elements struggled to maintain their initial impact.

With Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Ubisoft introduces a fresh modern-day narrative aimed at re-engaging fans. This new storyline stands independently from the previous modern-day arcs, so you don’t need to be familiar with them. That said, the modern-day elements in Shadows are sparse and shrouded in mystery, adding an intriguing layer to the game.

Related: Assassin’s Creed Shadows Trophy List (All 55 Trophies)

Is Assassin’s Creed Shadows Connected to the Series and Does it Matter If You’ve Played It Before?

Naoe receives her Hidden Blade in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Image via Ubisoft. While Assassin’s Creed Shadows isn’t a direct sequel to any specific game, Ubisoft pays homage to the series' legacy through Easter eggs, nods, and iconic imagery that will delight long-time fans. These elements are subtle enough not to overwhelm newcomers.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows can be enjoyed as a standalone adventure, yet it integrates key elements from the broader series, including the Animus, the Brotherhood, and the Templars. These connections are introduced gradually, allowing both new and returning players ample time to immerse themselves in the world of Feudal Japan without needing prior knowledge of the series.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is available now on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox.