New "Assassin's Creed" game set in feudal Japan

"Assassin's Creed" is a popular video game series with over 230 million players around the world. Launched in 2007, it has expanded into movies and music, winning a Grammy Award. The latest installment, "Assassin's Creed Shadows," is set to be released soon. The series invites players to experience various historical settings, from the Crusades to Viking times. The first game was influenced by the novel "Alamut." The new version takes players to 16th-century feudal Japan, where they can use stealth or engage in direct combat. Players often explore their ancestors' memories using a special device that connects them to the past. The franchise saw immediate success, with over eight million copies sold in just a few years. The 2020 game "Valhalla" became the highest-grossing title, bringing in over one billion euros. It also marked a milestone, as it earned the series' first Grammy for its score from an expansion called "Dawn of Ragnarok." Despite its popularity, the games have faced criticism for their portrayal of history. The upcoming "Shadows" has sparked debate over its character Yasuke, a black samurai, whose historical validity is questioned. Ubisoft claims it employs many experts to ensure historical accuracy. The franchise also made its way into films, with a movie released in 2016 featuring stars like Michael Fassbender. However, the movie received poor reviews, and plans for a sequel have not materialized. Ubisoft has since partnered with Netflix to create series based on the game, continuing to grow the franchise. In a nod to pop culture, the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics featured a character inspired by "Assassin's Creed." The series has even offered the game for free to allow players to explore the virtual Notre Dame after its fire in 2019, attracting millions of players.