Ubisoft Issues Apology to Japanese Reenactment Group

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Highlights

Ubisoft issued an apology for using a reenactment group’s banner in Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
The Sekigahara Teppo-tai infantryman reenactment group accepted the apology.
Ubisoft assured the banner’s removal from all digital media and future development assets.

Ubisoft Issues Apology for Banner Usage in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Ubisoft has formally apologized to the Sekigahara Teppo-tai infantryman reenactment group after inadvertently using the group’s banner in the development of the upcoming game, Assassin’s Creed Shadows. The latest installment in the acclaimed Assassin’s Creed series has already faced some controversies. Adding to this, Ubisoft has now been criticized for using a banner in the game’s concept art that closely resembles the design of the reenactment troupe’s flag.

『アサシンクリードシャドウズ』に関するお知らせ
公開済であるコンセプトアート2点に、関ケ原古戦場おもてなし連合「関ケ原鉄砲隊」の旗が無断で使用されているとのご指摘を受けております。
団体様には謝罪の機会を頂戴し、受け入れていただきました。…
— Ubisoft Japan (@UBISOFT_JAPAN) July 8, 2024

Ubisoft Japan on X: “『アサシンクリードシャドウズ』に関するお知らせ公開済であるコンセプトアート2点に、関ケ原古戦場おもてなし連合「関ケ原鉄砲隊」の旗が無断で使用されているとのご指摘を受けております。団体様には謝罪の機会を頂戴し、受け入れていただきました。” / X

Demand for Medieval Japan Setting in Assassin’s Creed

Since launching the Assassin’s Creed series, fans have eagerly requested a mainline game set in medieval Japan. Many players see this setting as a potential hit, envisioning a perfect blend of Japanese aesthetics and engaging gameplay. Japan’s rich history, particularly its stealthy and covert shinobi archetype, fits seamlessly into the Assassin’s Creed narrative, leading fans to believe that medieval Japan would create an unforgettable historical fiction experience in Assassin’s Creed Shadows.

Controversy Over Concept Art Flag

Ubisoft’s efforts to authentically represent the Sengoku Jidai period led to an unexpected controversy. Fans noticed that a flag in Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ concept art bore a striking resemblance to the Sekigahara Teppo-tai group’s official banner. In response, Ubisoft issued a formal apology to the reenactment group and confirmed the removal of the banner from their website and other digital platforms. Ubisoft also assured fans that the flag would not be used in future developments, though it acknowledged that some printed art books included with the Collector’s Edition would still feature the design.

Ubisoft Formally Apologizes to Sekigahara Teppo-Tai Infantryman Reenactment Group

Acknowledgement and Acceptance of Apology

The Sekigahara Teppo-tai infantryman reenactment group has received and accepted Ubisoft’s apology. A member of the group, known on Twitter as @matchlock_kage, confirmed that Ubisoft had contacted the troupe to extend a formal apology. The group expressed relief that Ubisoft admitted to the mistake in their recreation of the Sengoku Jidai period for Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Despite the unfortunate incident, the group remained optimistic, noting that the situation had inadvertently brought more attention to their reenactment activities.

Ubisoft’s Efforts to Avoid Further Controversy

With the release of Assassin’s Creed Shadows just a few months away, Ubisoft is keen to address any potential controversies swiftly. This is particularly crucial as the game is already facing criticism over its choice of protagonist, Yasuke, with some fans debating his role in the game. Ubisoft’s proactive approach in resolving the banner issue highlights its commitment to maintaining positive relations with the community and ensuring the game’s success.