Ubisoft’s upcoming Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set to deliver brutal combat, but Japanese gamers cannot access the complete experience since the game must meet CERO Assassin’s creed Shadows censorship standards in Japan. Japanese players must experience a restricted version because the CERO rating board wants to keep violent content at appropriate levels.

Despite Shadows carrying a CERO Z rating (Japan’s equivalent of an 18+ classification), the board still deemed some elements too graphic. Ubisoft announced that dismemberment will be completely removed from the Japanese version, even though other regions will have a toggle for it. Additionally, changes are being made to how severed limbs and body parts are depicted, and some Japanese dialogue will be altered, though Ubisoft hasn’t shared specific details.

This isn’t the first time CERO’s Assassin's Creed Shadows censorship policies have sparked debate. In 2024, Dead Space Remake was outright denied a rating due to its gore, while Stellar Blade, which also contained violent elements, received a CERO D rating (17+). EA Japan’s General Manager even called out the inconsistency at the time.

While this news might disappoint fans hoping for an uncensored samurai experience, Ubisoft is still keeping the hype train rolling. The company recently revealed that pre orders will include a free DLC, Claws of Awaji, adding 10 hours of content, a new region, and an enemy faction known as the Sanzoku Ippa. With Assassin’s Creed Shadows Japan launching this March, the wait is almost over—just not quite the same for everyone.

FAQs

Is there an Assassin’s Creed Shadows in Japan?

The latest Assassin's Creed is set in Japan and has two characters.

Is Assassins Creed Shadows cancelled?

Assassin's Creed Shadows early access is officially canceled, as Ubisoft reduces the Collector's Edition pricing by $50 due to delays and aborted Season Pass plans.

Why did ACS get delayed?

It's a difficult subject with no simple answer, but it boils down to a strict development timeframe, polishing, and respecting the Japanese community's cultural and historical accuracy concerns.