Assassin's Creed Shadows' version of Japan is extremely pretty. From the minutiae of its temples and terraced paddy fields to the sweeping vistas of its forests, seas, and mountains, it's a contender for one of the prettiest open-world games in years. The trouble is, you'll have to do some legwork before you get to enjoy it properly.

Assassin's Creed Shadows has been released to the world and allows players to live out their dreams of running around as a shinobi or samurai in Sengoku era Japan. While the game is easy to pick up and play, gamers who are new to the franchise or haven't played an Assassin's Creed game in years may miss some vital elements of the game.

If you loved the setting of the latest Assassin's Creed game, check out these other games with historical Japanese settings.