
After a long wait and several release date delays, Assassin’s Creed Shadows is finally available. This new installment in Ubisoft’s flagship franchise is already sparking a lot of reactions, ranging from excitement to controversy. While the publisher prepares to handle the media fallout, the reception of the game seems to be divided between criticism and community support.

A decision that divides the community
From the moment it was announced, Assassin’s Creed Shadows sparked strong reactions, particularly due to its historical setting and the choice of main characters. The game allows players to take on the role of Yasuke, a character inspired by the famous Black samurai whose existence has long been debated by historians. While this choice thrilled some players for its diversity and originality, it also sparked a wave of negative reactions. Some critics argue that the move is too “progressive,” while others praise Ubisoft’s effort to innovate in storytelling.
Le Japon féodal selon Ubisoft :
— Aurea (@AureaLibe) March 19, 2025
Un samouraï africain hétéro qui embrassse un homme qui se prend pour une femme.pic.twitter.com/gNZiGs0YU0
This controversy is part of a larger conversation about representation in video games, which has become more intense in recent years. Some criticize the publisher for succumbing to what they call “woke” influences, while others applaud the effort to include historically underrepresented characters. Find the game at the best price with our Assassin’s Creed Shadows key.
A scene that challenges representation norms
One of the standout moments in Assassin’s Creed Shadows is a scene that caught the attention of both players and critics. It features a non-binary trans character sharing an intimate moment with a veiled woman in a lesbian romance context. This representation, rare in the video game industry, sparked mixed reactions on social media.
For some, this initiative is seen as a bold and progressive move by Ubisoft, aiming to include characters from gender minorities and diverse cultures. However, others view it as an ideological stance that might divide the player community.
Ubisoft a encore frappé.
— Aurea (@AureaLibe) March 19, 2025
Leur jeu Assassin’s Creed Shadows contient un personnage trans non-binaire et une romance lesbienne avec une femme voilée.
Cette entreprise woke mérite la faillite.pic.twitter.com/kd6dyqKM3Q
In a recent interview, the developers explained that they wanted to explore contemporary themes and offer a platform for characters that reflect the diversity of the modern world. Ubisoft seems to fully embrace this narrative choice, despite the criticism, and is betting on an inclusive approach that mirrors the evolution of mindsets and audience expectations.
Ubisoft implements a protection plan for its developers
In response to the negative and at times harsh reactions, Ubisoft quickly took action to protect its teams. According to an article from BFM Tech & Co, the publisher advised its employees not to disclose on social media that they work for the company in order to avoid harassment risks. Meanwhile, the Canadian branch implemented an anti-harassment plan, with a team dedicated to monitoring social media and offering legal and psychological support to employees.

These measures aim to ensure the safety and well-being of the developers in a climate often marked by online attacks. The publisher hopes to avoid the controversy surrounding the game from escalating into something that could harm its teams.
Stock prices soar despite the controversy
Despite the media storm, Ubisoft stock saw a significant rise the day after the game’s release. Some analysts see this as a direct correlation with the scale of the debates surrounding Assassin’s Creed Shadows, which likely helped boost the title’s visibility. The intense media coverage of the controversy may have sparked investor interest, betting on enthusiasm despite the criticism.

In any case, this surge in stock prices is interpreted in contrasting ways: some view it as a sign of renewed interest in the franchise, while others believe it is artificially inflated by the media coverage. Time will tell if this trend holds in the coming weeks, once the first sales analyses are available.
Download the Allkeyshop Browser Extension Free
For all the latest video game news, trailers, and best deals, make sure to bookmark us.
You can find all the best and cheapest online deals on CD keys, game codes, gift cards, and antivirus software from the verified CD key sellers on our store pages.
To not miss any news on Allkeyshop, subscribe on
Google News
.
