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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: Japan Version Removes Gore
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 means significant content differences exist between the Japanese and overseas (North America/Europe) versions.
The Japanese release will entirely omit dismemberment and decapitation. Depictions of wounds and severed body parts have also been altered. While unspecified audio changes will also be present in the Japanese version, compared to the international release.
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: 18+ Only
A CERO Z rating restricts the game's sale and distribution to individuals aged 18 and above. CERO's rating system considers four key categories: sexual content, violence, antisocial behavior, and language/ideology. Games failing to meet CERO's guidelines will not receive a rating, necessitating developer modifications for Japanese release. While excessive violence is cited, the statement doesn't specify other factors contributing to the Z rating.
This isn't unprecedented for the Assassin’s Creed franchise. Many titles, including AC Valhalla and AC Origins, have received CERO Z ratings due to their violent content.
CERO's stringent stance on gore and dismemberment has consistently impacted game releases in Japan. Some developers have opted against releasing in Japan rather than comply with CERO's requirements. For instance, The Callisto Protocol's Japanese release was canceled in 2022 due to perceived unacceptable alterations to the player experience. Similarly, the Dead Space Remake (2023) also lacked a CERO rating, leading to EA Japan expressing frustration, particularly given other violent games receiving ratings.
Yasuke's Description Altered
The description of Yasuke, a key protagonist, has been modified on Steam and PlayStation Store Japanese language pages. 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," a historically contentious term in Japanese culture.
Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot previously stated the company prioritizes entertainment for a broad audience, and avoids pushing specific agendas. The use of historical figures in Assassin’s Creed games, including figures like the Pope and Queen Victoria, is a long-standing practice.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows launches March 20, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Visit our Assassin’s Creed Shadows page for more details.
