The incorporation of Sumi-e in Assassin’s Creed Shadows goes beyond mere artistic homage to Japanese culture; it significantly enriches both gameplay and exploration. Ubisoft has long been renowned for its commitment to historical accuracy, and in the context of Shadows, set during the late Sengoku period, the presence of traditional Sumi-e ink paintings is particularly fitting.
However, Sumi-e serves a dual purpose within the game, intertwining aesthetic appeal with mechanics that reward players and enhance the storytelling experience, making it a standout feature in this installment.
Understanding Sumi-e in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Sumi-e represents a traditional Japanese painting technique characterized by monochrome ink applications that encapsulate the essence of natural and spiritual motifs. In the realm of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, it manifests as a side mission that centers on observing and drawing wildlife.
Throughout the vast nine regions of the game, players will encounter various creatures wandering through their habitats. To initiate the Sumi-e task, the “Observe”prompt appears above an animal’s head when it is spotted.
However, simply pressing the button is insufficient; players must approach quietly to avoid startling the wildlife. If they approach too hastily or make excessive noise, the animal will flee, requiring players to bide their time for another chance.
Once players are adequately close, the Observe prompt reappears, initiating a brief cutscene where either Naoe or Yasuke sketches the observed animal in the Sumi-e style. While both characters can complete these tasks, Naoe’s stealth and speed make her particularly adept, in contrast to Yasuke’s challenges due to his heavier armor.
Rewards from Sumi-e Objectives
Engaging with the Sumi-e side missions offers more than just the pleasure of creating art; players gain valuable rewards. Successfully completing a painting grants significant XP and unlocks the artwork as a decorative item for the player’s hideout. Moreover, players sometimes have the option to add the wildlife they observe to their hideout, enhancing the environment and making it feel lively.
The Value of Sumi-e in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
In a game heavily centered on combat, stealth mechanics, and RPG elements, the introduction of the Sumi-e system provides players with a serene and engaging diversion. This feature allows players to pause, appreciate the intricate world design, and connect with Japanese cultural heritage beyond the usual archetype of conflict and assassination.
By including Sumi-e, Assassin’s Creed Shadows exemplifies Ubisoft’s dedication to historical authenticity, offering players an enriching and poignant respite from the game’s more action-driven sequences.