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Why Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ Canon Mode Is a Game-Changer for Storytelling
December 12, 2024Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Ubisoft’s latest addition to its long-running franchise, is shaking things up in a way that could redefine how we engage with narrative-driven games. This time, the game introduces a “canon mode,” a story option that bypasses narrative choices entirely, delivering a streamlined and immersive experience. For a series steeped in lore and historical intricacy, this approach could strike the perfect balance between player agency and narrative integrity.
Table of Contents
What Exactly Is Canon Mode?
Canon mode is Ubisoft’s solution to a long-standing problem within the Assassin’s Creed universe: how to maintain a cohesive historical narrative while still offering players the freedom to make choices. This mode eliminates player-driven narrative branches, allowing the story to unfold in its purest form.
Game director Jonathan Dumont explains that canon mode ensures “a choice-free narrative” while still giving players freedom in the open-world gameplay. For instance, players can switch between Shadows’ dual protagonists—Naoe, a shinobi, and Yasuke, a samurai—without disrupting the overarching storyline. This seamless integration of character swapping mirrors Assassin’s Creed Syndicate’s Frye twins, where both protagonists were essential yet independent players in the narrative.
Why Canon Mode?
The Assassin’s Creed fanbase has always been passionate about lore accuracy. Early titles rewarded players for perfectly synchronizing with memories, reinforcing the idea that the Animus was a tool for reliving definitive historical events. However, as newer entries like Odyssey and Valhalla introduced more player-driven choices, the narrative became more fluid, sparking debates over what was canon.
Canon mode bridges this gap, offering a definitive storyline while still supporting player freedom in other aspects. It allows players to enjoy Shadows’ historical depth without constantly questioning whether their decisions align with the series’ lore.
The Role of Player Choice in Shadows
For those who love the freedom to shape their journey, Shadows doesn’t skimp on options. Outside of canon mode, players can:
- Choose allies to recruit: Shadows allows players to assemble a team that reflects their values and strategy, reinforcing themes of chosen family and community.
- Decide who to romance: Relationships can be fleeting or long-term, adding emotional depth to the journey.
- Select their protagonist: Whether playing as Naoe or Yasuke, each character brings unique abilities and perspectives to the story.
Brooke Davies, associate narrative director, emphasizes that while choices impact the gameplay and relationships, the story will culminate in a single, canonical ending. This ensures the narrative remains cohesive while offering varied paths to reach that conclusion.
Historical Fidelity Meets Modern Mechanics
Set against the backdrop of feudal Japan, Shadows brings historical intrigue to life while addressing the franchise’s modern-day narrative. Dumont has teased a limited modern-day storyline that ties into a broader narrative to be explored in the Animus Hub. This approach reflects Ubisoft’s commitment to revitalizing the modern-day elements that have often felt like an afterthought in recent entries.
A Fresh Take on Replayability
Canon mode also breathes new life into replayability. For players revisiting Shadows, this mode provides a no-frills way to re-experience the story as intended by the developers. By removing the burden of choice, players can focus on the narrative’s emotional and historical beats, making for a more streamlined and immersive replay experience.
A Unified Vision for the Assassin’s Creed Franchise
Ubisoft’s recent pivot toward consistency and quality is evident in Shadows’ development. Originally slated for release in 2024, the game’s launch was postponed to February 14, 2025. This delay, according to Assassin’s Creed boss Marc-Alexis Coté, was necessary to ensure the game met the franchise’s high standards. With Shadows, Ubisoft aims to set a new benchmark for storytelling, blending historical depth with modern gameplay innovations.
With features like canon mode, Ubisoft is reaffirming its commitment to delivering immersive, lore-rich experiences while embracing modern gaming trends. As the February release date approaches, fans can look forward to a game that respects the series’ roots while boldly charting new territory.
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