Assassin’s Creed Shadows Sparks Backlash After Poaching One Piece

As a gamer with a deep appreciation for both Assassin’s Creed and One Piece franchises, I am dismayed by Ubisoft’s recent actions at Japan Expo. The blatant appropriation of Roronoa Zoro’s iconic katana, Kitetsu, from the Assassin’s Creed Shadows booth has left a sour taste in my mouth.


In the realm of gaming, franchises such as Assassin’s Creed have endured for extended periods without escaping the limelight of controversy. With much anticipation, Assassin’s Creed Shadows is this year’s offering from Ubisoft, set to introduce fans to Japan’s rich culture. However, following its reveal at Japan Expo, the upcoming game has found itself under scrutiny for allegedly drawing inspiration from Roronoa Zoro’s design in One Piece.

As a dedicated gamer and avid fan of One Piece, I can’t contain my excitement! This past weekend, Assassin’s Creed Shadows graced us with their presence at Japan Expo. The experience was truly immersive, filled with authentic Japanese artifacts that transported me right into the world of One Piece. And let me tell you, the katana collection on display gave me goosebumps! The blade’s design looked eerily similar to some iconic weapons from the series. It felt surreal, almost as if I was living the anime myself!

At the Ubisoft stand during Japan Expo, you can immerse yourself in the spirit of the game with works such as “Katana and Yasuke’s Mask” (possibly by Pure Arts Limited) or other artwork. The experience lasts until July 14th.

— Assassin’s Creed FR (@AssassinsFR) July 11, 2024

As a dedicated gamer, I must admit, I was thrilled when I came across Zoro’s Kitetsu at the Assassin’s Creed booth during the convention. Fans were quick to snatch up this iconic sword and purchase it from Amazon. The booth may have made it seem effortless to acquire Zoro’s blade, but that’s not entirely accurate.

The poaching issue in question doesn’t apply to “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” gameplay itself. Up until now, no footage of this Ubisoft production has shown a Katana resembling Kitetsu or any other blade from “One Piece.” However, some fans have expressed disappointment due to the inclusion of an unauthorized historical flag in the game. The group Sekigahara Teppo-tai, which owns the rights to this flag for reenactments in Japan, has requested its removal. This real-life mistake regarding Zoro’s flag further aggravates the situation.

At present, “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” is planned for release in November 2024. For those intrigued by the game, it takes place towards the end of the Sengoku era in Japan. Players will assume the roles of Naoe and Yasuke, guiding them through 16th-century Japanese society as they resist the encroaching influence of the Templar Order.

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2024-07-14 20:09