Why Ubisoft Should Embrace More Black Historical Characters in Assassin's Creed

The recent announcement of Assassin’s Creed Shadows prominently featuring Yasuke, the legendary African samurai, has sparked excitement across the gaming community. For years, Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed franchise has built its reputation on bringing history to life, weaving compelling narratives around historical figures while blending them into the lore of the Assassin Brotherhood. Yasuke’s inclusion is a significant step forward in representing Black historical figures, but it also opens the door for Ubisoft to embrace even more Black icons from history.

Why Yasuke’s Inclusion is a Big Deal

Yasuke, a historical figure from the late 16th century, was a man of African descent who became a samurai in feudal Japan. His story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and honor—a perfect fit for the Assassin’s Creed universe. By highlighting Yasuke’s journey, Assassin’s Creed Shadows not only sheds light on an underexplored historical figure but also demonstrates the potential for more diverse stories within the franchise.

Yasuke's inclusion suggests a growing recognition that diverse narratives can deepen the franchise’s connection to its global audience. His story shows that history is rich with untold tales of heroism, resilience, and intrigue that transcend cultural boundaries.

Yasuke was also the star of his own Netflix Anime



Black Historical Figures Who Could Be Great Assassins

Here are some other Black historical figures who could seamlessly fit into the Assassin’s Creed universe:

Queen Nzinga (1583–1663)

Historical Context: Queen Nzinga was a warrior queen of the Ndongo and Matamba Kingdoms in present-day Angola. Known for her tactical brilliance and resistance against Portuguese colonization, she was a fierce protector of her people.

Assassin Potential: Nzinga’s guerrilla warfare tactics and ability to unite factions make her a natural fit for the Assassin Brotherhood. Her narrative could explore themes of liberation, strategy, and resistance against oppression. Toussaint Louverture (1743–1803)

Historical Context: Known as the leader of the Haitian Revolution, Louverture orchestrated the only successful slave rebellion in history, ultimately leading to Haiti’s independence from France.

Assassin Potential: Louverture’s story is ripe for exploration, as it aligns with the Brotherhood’s ideals of freedom and rebellion against tyranny. His ability to inspire and organize large-scale revolts would make for an epic Assassin’s Creed storyline. Harriet Tubman (1822–1913) Historical Context: An abolitionist and key figure in the Underground Railroad, Tubman led countless enslaved people to freedom while evading capture.

Assassin Potential: Tubman’s stealth, resourcefulness, and courage could easily be tied to the Assassin Brotherhood’s mission. A game centered around her story could emphasize covert operations, underground networks, and a fight for justice.



Mansa Musa (1280–1337)

Historical Context: The ruler of the Mali Empire and one of the wealthiest individuals in history, Mansa Musa is renowned for his immense wealth and cultural contributions.

Assassin Potential: A storyline involving Mansa Musa could delve into the political intrigue of his empire, using his wealth and influence to fund the Brotherhood while navigating threats from the Templar Order.

Shaka Zulu (1787–1828)

Historical Context: A legendary leader and military innovator, Shaka Zulu transformed the Zulu Kingdom into a dominant power in southern Africa. Assassin Potential: Shaka’s mastery of strategy and warfare could make him a formidable Assassin, leading his people in a fight against external threats while uncovering Templar conspiracies.

Why Ubisoft Should Expand These Stories

Global Appeal: Expanding the narrative to include diverse historical figures allows Ubisoft to connect with a broader audience while celebrating the contributions of marginalized communities.

Richer Storytelling: Black historical figures bring unique perspectives, challenges, and victories that could deepen the lore of the Assassin Brotherhood. Educational Opportunities: The franchise has always educated players about history. By featuring figures like Queen Nzinga or Harriet Tubman, the games could inspire players to learn more about these incredible individuals.

Market Demand: Representation matters, and the positive reception of Yasuke indicates that players are eager to explore new cultural and historical narratives. Potential Game Settings

Ancient Mali: The wealth and splendor of Mansa Musa’s empire could provide a stunning backdrop for an Assassin’s Creed game.

Angolan Resistance: Queen Nzinga’s fight against Portuguese colonization offers a rich narrative of resistance and rebellion.

Haitian Revolution: Toussaint Louverture’s story could explore the complexities of revolution and liberation.

Zulu Kingdom: Shaka Zulu’s rise to power could feature epic battles and intricate politics.

Conclusion

With Assassin’s Creed Shadows featuring Yasuke, Ubisoft has taken an important step toward diversifying its narratives. The franchise has the potential to shine a spotlight on more Black historical figures, whose stories are every bit as compelling, dramatic, and heroic as those of their European or Asian counterparts. By embracing these narratives, Ubisoft can not only enrich the Assassin’s Creed universe but also inspire a new generation of gamers to explore the vast and diverse tapestry of world history.

Who would you like to see as the next Assassin? Share your thoughts below!



"Black history is our history"