Assassin’s Creed franchise boss Marc-Alexis Coté has addressed the online backlash which has swirled around the main characters of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, impacting the game’s development staff. He also discussed attempts by bad faith commenters to disrupt creative teams from featuring diverse and inclusive characters.
Defending the Inclusion of Diverse Characters
Speaking at an event in London, Coté defended the team’s work on Shadows, particularly the criticism over the inclusion of Black samurai Yasuke as one of the protagonists. He emphasized the importance of representation and inclusivity in media and how it influences the perception of games.
Embracing Diversity in History
Coté highlighted the diverse characters in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, including both fictional and historical figures like Naoe and Yasuke. He explained that the game aims to tell narratives that reflect the complexity of shared history, embracing different cultures and perspectives.
Commitment to Inclusivity
Coté reiterated the franchise’s commitment to inclusivity, citing past protagonists from diverse backgrounds. He emphasized that the focus is on historical authenticity and respect for diverse perspectives, rather than modern agendas.
Challenges Faced by Creative Teams
Coté acknowledged the challenges faced by creative teams in the current climate, including online attacks and criticism. He expressed pride in the Shadows team for staying true to their vision despite the adversity.
Standing Firm on Values
Coté emphasized the importance of telling stories that inspire and challenge players, regardless of their background. He reiterated the franchise’s commitment to diversity and richness in storytelling.
Protecting Creative Freedom
As cultural differences become more divisive, Coté reflected on the importance of protecting creative freedoms. He urged creators to stand firm on their values and not succumb to fear or threats.
Empowering Players
Coté concluded by thanking players for their support and emphasized the role of players in shaping the journey of Assassin’s Creed. He expressed optimism in the power of creativity to overcome hate and division.
Interview with Art Director
Eurogamer interviewed Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ art director Thierry Dansereau about the game’s adaption of Japanese culture and the challenges faced by the team. Dansereau emphasized the creative choices involved in making a video game.
FAQs
Q: What is the focus of Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
A: Assassin’s Creed Shadows focuses on diverse characters and inclusive storytelling, exploring the richness of human history.
Q: How does the franchise address criticism and backlash?
A: The franchise addresses criticism by staying true to its values of inclusivity and historical authenticity, while also listening to legitimate feedback for improvement.
Credit: www.eurogamer.net
