Assassin's Creed Shadows: Ubisoft Clarifies Animal Killing Policy

James

3 min read

Post on May 22, 2025

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Assassin's Creed Mirage: Ubisoft Clarifies Animal Killing Policy, Calming Player Concerns

The upcoming Assassin's Creed Mirage has sparked debate among fans regarding its portrayal of animal killing. Ubisoft, in response to growing online discussions, has released a statement clarifying its approach to animal interactions within the game, reassuring players concerned about potential excessive violence against animals. The developer aims to strike a balance between historical accuracy and modern sensibilities, a tightrope walk that has proven challenging for many open-world games.

This clarification follows a series of gameplay trailers and previews that showcased some interactions between the protagonist, Basim Ibn Ishaq, and animals in the bustling streets of ninth-century Baghdad. While some sequences depicted necessary interactions, others sparked concerns among players sensitive to animal cruelty in video games. Ubisoft's statement addresses these concerns directly.

A Focus on Historical Context, but with Sensibilities in Mind

Ubisoft emphasizes that the game's setting and time period necessitate some depiction of interactions with animals, reflecting the realities of life in Baghdad during that era. However, the company maintains that gratuitous violence against animals will not be a core feature of the gameplay. The development team has worked to ensure that such interactions are minimized and presented in a manner that avoids unnecessary cruelty.

"We understand that the depiction of animals in games is a sensitive topic, and we appreciate the feedback from our community," stated a Ubisoft spokesperson in their official statement. "Our goal is to provide a historically accurate yet responsible portrayal of life in Baghdad, and we believe we’ve found a balance that respects both the setting and the concerns of our players."

This statement suggests a careful approach to game design, prioritizing responsible storytelling over sensationalizing violence. This commitment to responsible content creation is becoming increasingly important in the gaming industry as players demand more ethical and considerate game development.

What This Means for Players

The clarification offers reassurance to players who were hesitant due to concerns about animal welfare in the game. It suggests that while animal interactions will exist, they will not be central to the gameplay experience, nor will they be overly violent or gratuitous. This approach aligns with the overall tone and style of the game, which promises a more focused and narrative-driven experience compared to previous entries in the Assassin's Creed franchise.

• Minimized Animal Killing: The game will feature minimal instances of animal killing, focused on actions necessary for survival or historical context.
• Emphasis on Stealth and Parkour: The core gameplay loop will continue to revolve around Basim's stealth and parkour abilities, minimizing the need for direct confrontation with animals.
• Responsible Storytelling: Ubisoft aims to weave a compelling narrative respecting the historical setting while maintaining a level of sensitivity to modern concerns.

The Future of Ethical Game Design

Ubisoft's response highlights a growing awareness within the gaming industry regarding ethical considerations in game design. Developers are increasingly recognizing the importance of responsible content creation, including the depiction of animals and other sensitive topics. This trend indicates a move towards greater maturity and social responsibility within the industry, positively impacting the overall player experience.

Are you excited about Assassin's Creed Mirage? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Learn more about the game by visiting the official .