It's well known that some politicians—regardless of their country—are always eager to criticize video games to score political points. However, the developers of Assassin's Creed Shadows seem to have provided a legitimate reason for heated discussions in Japan—so much so that even the Prime Minister of the country has weighed in.

The controversy stems from a widely circulated video showing the main character of Assassin's Creed Shadows destroying altars inside the real-life Shinto shrine of Itate Hyozu. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba stated that it is important to show respect for the culture and religion of other countries.

Meanwhile, Hiroyuki Kada, a member of Japan’s House of Councillors, voiced his discontent, pointing out that in previous Assassin's Creed games, players could not commit such acts in temples, whereas Shadows allows it. The official considered this a sign of disrespect towards Japan. Additionally, representatives of the Itate Hyozu Shrine did not receive any requests to use the shrine’s name.

To be fair, Ubisoft has responded to the backlash: developers will make tables and shelves in in-game shrines indestructible and reduce the number of violent scenes set in temples. These changes will be implemented in a Day One patch, launching alongside the game’s release.

Still, picking a fight with officials from the very country your game is based on is probably not the best strategy.

Main image: steampowered.com

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