Assassin’s Creed Shadows was announced this week with an electrifying cinematic trailer, revealing new information about the game, including its protagonists, combat mechanics, stealth, and open world. Additionally, fans noticed the return of some elements from older games.
In the trailer, Naoe, one of the protagonists and the fictional daughter of historical figure Fujibayashi Nagato, performed a classic attack move from early Assassin’s Creed games. Fans observed that she wasn’t using a regular hidden blade, but a pivot blade, granting her greater mobility in attacks against her foes. However, this isn’t the first time that this weapon appeared in the franchise.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ Hidden Blade Was Previously Used by Connor
The first appearance of the Pivot Blade in the Ubisoft franchise occurred over 20 years ago when Assassin’s Creed 3 was released. In that game, players controlled Connor, Edward Kenway’s grandson, in 18th-century colonial America. Connor’s mission was to avenge his mother’s death while also preventing the Templars from influencing the future of the American Revolution.
In addition to being the first protagonist descended from a Templar, Connor was notable for his weapon. The classic Hidden Blades used by Ezio and Altair were replaced by a Pivot Blade, allowing Connor to perform maneuvers that no other assassin could.
Typically, the blades used by characters in the series allow for direct, frontal attacks. However, the Pivot Blade can rotate up to 90 degrees, offering greater attack possibilities. It can also be held like a hammer or even an ice pick. On Twitter, the community has noticed the return of the Pivot Blade and is excited about possible references to Connor.
Although Ubisoft did not highlight this detail in the initial information about Assassin’s Creed Shadows, it is likely that this weapon will be one of Naoe’s main tools. Yasuke, the other protagonist of the game, will have a more action-focused combat style, facing his enemies with katanas, as shown in the trailers.
Why is Assassin’s Creed 3 One of the Most Controversial Games in the Series?
Despite the nostalgic return of the Pivot Blade for some fans, Connor and Assassin’s Creed 3 were not well received by gamers. Various reasons, such as being the successor to the beloved Ezio trilogy and the setting changes, contributed to this.
Also, unlike the earlier games set in vertical cities in Italy, the North American cities lacked similar structures, reducing the pleasure of climbing tall buildings and observing the scenery. The story and ending of Assassin’s Creed 3 further added to the controversy surrounding Connor’s journey.
But what about you? What do you think of the return of the Pivot Blade? Will it be one of your favorite equipment for Naoe during your adventures in Japan, or will you prefer Yasuke’s action-oriented approach? Or are you one of those who won’t get to experience Assassin’s Creed Shadows because Ubisoft is making it exclusive to the new generation of consoles?
Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
