With its upcoming game, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, the franchise is venturing into feudal Japan. But fans are raving not just about the location but also about the protagonist, Yasuke, a samurai of African descent. Despite the fascination of Yasuke’s story, several fans wonder why Ubisoft didn’t cast a native Japanese warrior in the title role.
First Non-Japanese Samurai
Yasuke’s tale is like a samurai movie with a twist – part myth, part history. We know he was a real figure who rose to fame during the chaotic Sengoku era. His early life is shrouded in fog, but historians think he hailed from Africa, possibly in South Sudan, Ethiopia, or Mozambique.
In 1579, Yasuke traveled to Japan with Alessandro Valignano, an Italian Jesuit missionary. His impressive physical strength and commanding height (he was over six feet tall) caught the eye of the daimyo Oda Nobunaga, who was well-known for his avant-garde and unorthodox methods.
Service Under Oda Nobunaga
Yasuke became a retainer of Nobunaga when he was brought into his service. Even though Yasuke was not raised in the Japanese hierarchy, it is possible that he was trained in military strategy and combat. While it is debatable whether he attained full samurai status, historical reports indicate he carried a katana and wore modified samurai attire. Rather than being a full-fledged samurai, Yasuke’s function was likely that of a koshō, sword-bearer, or page.
Daimyo: Daimyo were powerful feudal lords who controlled vast territories during Japan’s feudal era. They were like regional governors with significant autonomy, responsible for governing their lands, collecting taxes, and maintaining their own military forces (samurai).
Retainer: Retainers were individuals who pledged loyalty and service to a Daimyo. This included samurai warriors, administrators, advisors, and even artists and artisans. They formed the backbone of a Daimyo’s power structure.
Why Not a Japanese Samurai?
Assassin’s Creed usually features characters who fit right in with their surroundings. Fans were expecting a samurai to lead the charge in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, someone who embodies the samurai traditions and the whole cultural vibe. Yasuke, although significant, is kind of an outsider in Japanese history. For some gamers craving a deep samurai experience, this choice might feel like a missed opportunity.
Assassin's Creed Codename Red becomes Assassin's Creed Shadows.
Tune-in for the Official Cinematic World Premiere Trailer on May 15, 9 AM PT.#AssassinsCreedShadows pic.twitter.com/xc1Q10N4Vh— Assassin's Creed (@assassinscreed) May 13, 2024
Potential Reasons for Ubisoft’s Choice
- Yasuke’s story offers a fresh perspective on feudal Japan, exploring themes of cultural exchange and breaking societal norms.
- Ubisoft often blends historical accuracy with creative storytelling. Yasuke’s presence in Nobunaga’s court provides a unique narrative angle. While Yasuke might not have been a full-fledged samurai, there’s historical evidence of his service to Oda Nobunaga. Assassin’s Creed games often take creative liberties with history while maintaining a grounded setting. They might portray Yasuke’s role more prominently for gameplay purposes.
- Choosing a character of African descent as the lead protagonist could be a way to promote diversity and representation in gaming. It could also broaden the game’s appeal to a wider audience.
Yasuke and Oda Nobunaga’s Relationship
Yasuke’s arrival in Japan was part of a larger trend of increased contact between Japan and the West during the 16th century. Significant cultural interaction, political intrigue, and societal tensions characterized the Sengoku period. Strong and aspirational, Oda Nobunaga was a daimyo renowned for his progressive ideas and openness to foreign influences. He was a key figure in the unification of Japan.
- Taking Yasuke into his service was a practical as well as a symbolic move for Nobunaga.
- Yasuke was a useful asset because of his strong physical presence and combat abilities, and his foreign heritage and distinctive appearance accentuated Nobunaga’s authority and influence.
- Yasuke’s role as a retainer, attending to Nobunaga’s personal needs and serving as a symbol of his lord’s progressive vision, highlights the complex power dynamics of the time.
There were significant social and cultural barriers for foreigners in Japan in the 16th century. Japan’s social order and traditions were crucial to the doctrine of the samurai. Although they wouldn’t have attained full samurai status, exceptional foreign fighters might have been appointed by the daimyo as mercenaries or military advisors. As a unique exception, Yasuke’s biography could demonstrate both the power structures of the era and Nobunaga’s receptivity to foreign influences.
Possible Alternatives
For fans disappointed by Yasuke’s role, here are three compelling Japanese samurai from the 16th century who could have been captivating protagonists:
- Miyamoto Musashi: Legendary swordsman known for his undefeated duels and dual-wielding technique. His story could focus on mastering the samurai code and honing skills through battles.
- Ii Naomasa: Loyal retainer of Tokugawa Ieyasu, known for his bravery and strategic prowess. His narrative could explore loyalty, honor, and the political landscape of the Sengoku period.
- Date Masamune: The ambitious and ruthless daimyo known as the “One-Eyed Dragon.” His story could offer a strategic, campaign-style experience filled with alliances and conquests.
Why Yasuke Still Matters
Yasuke’s involvement in Assassin’s Creed Shadows seems appropriate despite the debate around it. At a crucial point, his story challenges mainstream assumptions regarding Japanese history and offers a fresh perspective on intercultural relations. Yasuke’s extraordinary journey—from Africa to the court of one of the most influential lords in Japan—offers plenty of material for both gameplay and storyline.
Ubisoft’s decision to feature Yasuke could also be seen as a commitment to diversity and representation in gaming. By spotlighting a lesser-known historical figure, the game can introduce players to new stories and perspectives, broadening their understanding of the world.
How Ubisoft incorporates Yasuke into the Assassin’s Creed series will be critical to the game’s success. The creators can craft a story that respects Yasuke’s legacy and offers a compelling and immersive gaming experience by establishing a balance between historical truth and imaginative storytelling. One thing is certain as we anticipate additional details and gameplay peeks: Yasuke’s story will undoubtedly intrigue and inspire people everywhere, regardless of how it is received.
