Assassin’s Creed Shadows Exec Admits Dual Protagonists Spark Divisive Reactions
In a recent interview, Ubisoft’s associate game director Simon Lemay-Comtois discussed the mixed reactions towards dual protagonists in the Assassin’s Creed series. He cited the contrasting characters in the upcoming game, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, as a key example of this divisiveness among players.
Understanding Dual Protagonists in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Assassin’s Creed Shadows features two main characters: Naoe, a swift shinobi, and Yasuke, a powerful samurai. This choice aims to provide diverse gameplay experiences. However, it has sparked discussions within the fan community, reflecting varying player preferences.
Previous Titles and Their Protagonists
The trend of dual protagonists is not new to the series. Notable past titles include:
- Assassin’s Creed Syndicate: Set in Victorian London, it featured characters Evie and Jacob, who were primarily similar in gameplay.
- Assassin’s Creed Odyssey: Another title showcasing two playable characters, albeit with different mechanics.
- Assassin’s Creed Origins: This game allowed players to control the married couple Bayek and Aya, though Aya had limited gameplay time.
- Assassin’s Creed Valhalla: Featured male and female versions of the primary character, Eivor, for narrative purposes.
Unique Aspects of Shadows
Unlike previous games, Shadows aims to create distinct identities for its dual protagonists. Lemay-Comtois noted that their combat styles and abilities will significantly differ, allowing players to choose based on their preferred play style.
Fan Reactions and Future Plans
Lemay-Comtois acknowledged that preferences between the two characters could cause friction among fans. He stated, “It’s not just a matter of gameplay style; personal preference plays a huge role.” He remains optimistic that narrative justifications can support future dual-protagonist titles.
As for upcoming projects, the still-unannounced remake of Assassin’s Creed Black Flag is expected to launch in spring 2026. This game will focus on the character Edward Kenway and will not feature a dual protagonist.
Ubisoft has re-evaluated support plans for Assassin’s Creed Shadows following delays, initially expecting a major expansion next year. The focus has now shifted to smaller add-on content, adapting to the game’s development timeline.
