In the world of video games, creating a game's visual identity is an art - especially when you're working with an iconic brand like "Assassin's Creed". In the case of "Assassin's Creed Shadows" has mastered this challenge with exceptional precision. The game, which for years was only known under the code name "Red", not only deals with the historical aspects of feudal Japan, but also with the way in which this era is presented in a modern, visual form. A central element in this process was the design of the visually authentic game world, which at the same time stimulates the player's imagination.
A symbol of the past and present
The Shadows crest is a prime example of the fusion of tradition and innovation. Developed in close collaboration with award-winning Japanese master calligrapher Shoho Teramoto, the design captures both the raw aggression of feudal Japan and the elegance of its culture. Teramoto's characteristic brushstrokes, which adorn the crest, form a fascinating contrast to her precise and ornate calligraphy. This dualism mirrors the game itself, in which the beauty and brutality of feudal Japan are interwoven in a fantastic narrative. The slashes of the coat of arms, a striking visual element, were chosen not only as an aesthetic design device, but also as a symbolic representation of the game as an interface between past and present.
The basic visual vision of the game
Key art - or key art - is often created at the beginning of a development process and plays a crucial role in the visual communication of the game's central themes. In Assassin's Creed Shadows, key art serves as the foundation for depicting scenes, characters and the atmosphere of the game. The dramatic poses of the protagonists Naoe and Yasukecaptured in the midst of action-packed moments, illustrate not only the style of the game, but also the core of the narrative: the conflict, the honor and the fight. These artworks are not only important visual cues for the developers, but also the backbone for the subsequent advertising and box art. They convey the essential elements of the game and immediately arouse interest and curiosity in the viewer.
The invisible art of user experience
One of the more subtle, yet crucial components of the visual identity of Assassin's Creed Shadows is the design of the user interface (UI) and user experience (UX). These two aspects are closely linked as they are responsible for how the player interacts with the game world. While the UI is responsible for the visual design - the arrangement of menus, icons and buttons - the UX is about the feel and intuitive user guidance.
The design team aimed to capture the essence of the Animus, the familiar technology element of the Assassin's Creed-franchise seamlessly into the visual design. A minimalist, technological look was used, but it never overshadowed the historical aesthetics of feudal Japan. The user interface was designed to feel like a museum - a contemporary museum where feudal Japan is on display. This approach gave the user experience a subtle depth that harmonized both the history and modern technology of the game.
The clean lines and smooth animations in the menus ensured that the player not only enters the world of Assassin's Creed Shadows, but also navigates it without the UI ever distracting from the immersive gameplay experience. Every design decision - from icon placement to color choices - was carefully considered to ensure that players could fully experience the game's narrative and world without feeling distracted by unnecessary visual clutter.
A harmonious interplay
The visual design of "Assassin's Creed Shadows" is a fascinating interplay of authenticity and fantasy. Every element - from the crest to the key art to the user interface - contributes to creating a coherent and impressive visual identity. It is never forgotten that Assassin's Creed is not only about historical accuracy, but also about immersion in a world that is both real and fantastic.
The design team's work shows how closely art and technology are intertwined to provide players with an unforgettable experience. The visual identity of "Assassin's Creed Shadows" is not only a reflection of feudal Japan, but also an artful, interactive experience that combines story, technology and fantasy.
This concludes my 5-part background series on "Assassin's Creed Shadows", which will be released on March 20, 2025. Many thanks to Ubisoft for the information, which has hopefully led to a better understanding of the development process behind the game.
Assassin's Creed Shadows - Limited Edition
Additional content: The quest "A Dog's Life" (from release), the upcoming expansion "The Claws of Awaji" (at a later date), the download code for the additional content can be found on a flyer in the game box
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