Assassin's Creed Shadows Gets Censored in Japan

Assassin’s Creed Shadows (AC Shadows) has received a CERO Z rating in Japan, resulting in the removal of dismemberment and decapitation. This article details the content differences between the Japanese and international releases.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows Receives CERO Z Rating in Japan

Content Changes in the Japanese Version of Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Ubisoft Japan announced via Twitter (X) that Assassin’s Creed Shadows received a CERO Z rating from Japan’s Computer Entertainment Rating Organization (CERO). This led to content alterations for the Japanese release compared to North American and European versions.

Specifically, the Japanese version removes all instances of dismemberment and decapitation. Depictions of wounds and severed body parts have also been modified. While some changes to the Japanese audio dub have been implemented, the specifics haven't been detailed.

The international version of AC Shadows will offer players the option to toggle dismemberment and decapitation via the in-game settings menu.

CERO Z Rating: Implications for Players

A CERO Z rating signifies that the game's content is suitable only for players aged 18 and older, restricting sales and distribution to younger audiences. CERO's ratings system considers four key categories: sexual content, violence, antisocial behavior, and language/ideology. Games failing to meet CERO's guidelines won't receive a rating, prompting developers to make necessary adjustments. While the statement highlights excessive violence, other factors contributing to the Z rating remain unspecified.

This isn't the first time the Assassin's Creed franchise has faced CERO scrutiny. Many previous entries, including Assassin’s Creed Valhalla and Assassin’s Creed Origins, also received CERO Z ratings due to their violent content and themes.

CERO's history of strict enforcement regarding gore and dismemberment has created challenges for game releases in Japan. Some companies, unwilling to compromise their vision, have opted against a Japanese release. For example, The Callisto Protocol's Japanese release was canceled in 2022 due to disagreements over CERO's required modifications. Similarly, the Dead Space Remake (2023) didn't receive a CERO rating, with EA Japan expressing frustration over the inconsistencies in CERO's decisions.

Changes to Yasuke's Description

The description of Yasuke, a main protagonist, has also been altered. In the Japanese versions of the Steam and PlayStation Store listings, the term "samurai" (侍) has been replaced with "騎当千" (Ikki tousen), meaning "a warrior who can face a thousand enemies." This follows backlash in 2024 regarding the use of "black samurai" in previous marketing materials.

Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot previously stated the company's commitment to creating games for a broad audience and avoiding the promotion of specific agendas. The use of historical figures in Assassin’s Creed games, including figures such as the Pope and Queen Victoria, has been a consistent practice for the developers.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is scheduled for release on March 20, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. For further details on the game, visit our Assassin’s Creed Shadows page.