LF Ubisoft canceled a planned Assassin’s Creed game called “Codename Scarlet” that was set during the Reconstruction era after the American Civil War.
Assassin’s Creed game Premise
The player would have taken the role of a formerly enslaved Black man who escaped the South and started a new life out West. He is recruited by the Assassin Brotherhood and returns to the South. There, he confronts white supremacist groups including the Ku Klux Klan.
The game promised to explore themes of racial violence, citizenship rights, and the tough reintegration of Confederate states during Reconstruction. [6][1][5]
Why It Was Canceled
The project was canceled in mid-2024 due to concerns over the political climate in the United States. Ubisoft feared backlash similar to controversy following the reveal of Yasuke, a Black samurai protagonist in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. [1][4][5]
One insider summarized the reason as: “too political in a country too unstable.” Ubisoft, facing financial struggles, became risk-averse and avoided divisive subjects.
Developer Reaction and Impact
Developers were enthusiastic about telling this important story but were disappointed by the cancellation. They saw it as a missed chance to tackle meaningful subjects through gaming. [5][6][1]
This decision reflects the challenge of balancing bold storytelling with commercial realities and corporate caution in today’s politically charged environment.
