The Controversy Surrounding Yasuke in “Assassin’s Creed Shadows
The announcement of the upcoming “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” video game has ignited controversy, with some conservative critics labeling it as “woke” due to the inclusion of a Black samurai character and hints at LGBTQ romance options. The game, set in feudal Japan, features two main characters: Naoe, a female ninja, and Yasuke, a Black samurai based on a real historical figure.
The developers at Ubisoft decided to include Yasuke to explore the mystery surrounding his real-life counterpart and to add a fresh perspective to the narrative. Charles Benoit, the game’s director, explained that Yasuke’s non-native status provides an engaging way for players to discover Japan alongside him. The game also teases the potential for diverse romantic relationships, allowing players to pursue various types of partners.
Critics have voiced their disapproval, claiming the game panders to modern sensibilities rather than staying true to historical accuracy. Right-wing YouTuber Tim Pool criticized the decision, suggesting a Japanese protagonist would have been more appropriate for the setting. Brett Cooper from the Daily Wire echoed this sentiment, although she acknowledged the compelling nature of Yasuke’s story. Michael Knowles also criticized the inclusion of LGBTQ relationships, stating he initially supported Yasuke’s character until the possibility of making him gay was introduced. Some players expressed disappointment on social media platforms, lamenting that the male protagonist is not Japanese.
Yasuke, the historical figure, is celebrated as the “first Black samurai.” His origins are debated, with theories suggesting he hailed from Mozambique, Ethiopia, or Nigeria. Yasuke arrived in Japan in 1579 with Italian Jesuit missionary Alessandro Valignano and met warlord Oda Nobunaga in 1581. Nobunaga was impressed by Yasuke’s stature and recruited him into his army. Yasuke was present during significant historical events, including Nobunaga’s forced suicide in 1582.
This is not the first instance of a video game facing backlash for its diverse character options. “Starfield” faced criticism for allowing players to choose their pronouns, while “The Last of Us Part II” was review-bombed due to the muscular physique of its female protagonist, Abby. These controversies highlight the ongoing debate over representation in video games, with some fans embracing diversity while others resist changes to traditional norms.
Yasuke’s story has inspired various adaptations, including a Netflix anime series in 2021 and an upcoming live-action series. Actor LaKeith Stanfield voiced Yasuke in the anime, and Omar Sy is in talks to star in the live-action series. Yasuke’s life was also set to be adapted into a film starring Chadwick Boseman before his untimely death in 2020. Warner Bros. recently acquired a project by director Blitz Bazawule, further cementing Yasuke’s enduring legacy in popular culture.
The controversy over “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” underscores the challenges of balancing historical narratives with modern inclusivity in media. While some view the inclusion of diverse characters as a positive step forward, others see it as an unnecessary departure from historical accuracy.