The Wikipedia page for Yasuke has been the subject of an edit war after Assassin’s Creed Shadows released their first look at Yasuke as one of the game’s protagonists.

Yasuke is a historical figure claimed to be the first “black samurai”. The Wikipedia page as it reads now, paints a more ambiguous picture as records of Yasuke appear to be few and far between (the article even says he was “likely” of African origin). However the real excitement is happening in the Talk page for the article.

Users are currently having a back and forth about a particular line which clarifies Yasuke’s alleged status as a “samurai” rather than a “retainer”. The line currently reads.

“It is important to note that despite popular myth and modern depictions there are no historical writings nor evidence that Yasuke was ever granted the rank or title of samurai, he was never given a fief nor referred to as one in any writings. Most of our knowledge of his life comes from these messages written by missionaries and locals.”

The line comes with these two linked sources 1,2.

Users who disagree with this addition feel it’s “racist backlash” to Yasuke’s role in Assassin’s Creed Shadows meanwhile editors who support the addition claim it’s needed to prevent the spread of misinformation. Wikipedia editor “Ezio’s Assassin” explains:

“I support the idea that Wikipedia needs to make it clear on the article that there’s no evidence that Yasuke was granted the rank of samurai. Many random articles on the internet keep calling him a samurai (probably the effect of him being falsely portrayed as such in modern media). And now many people use those articles as a source to back their claim for political reasons. If that misinformation keeps spreading, it will become a fact eventually. If just one reliable source starts calling Yasuke a samurai, people will use that as a source to edit it on Wikipedia.”

Meanwhile on more public forums of discourse, Twitter users are posting screenshots of Japanese users questioning the choice and pointing out the potential racism of a foreigner slaughtering Japanese in their country.

Let's see how well-received the latest stunning and brave Assassin's Creed Shadows is in Japan. I'm sure things are going to be fin… omg 🫨 😆 pic.twitter.com/bJVZziuKxw

— LearningTheLaw (@Mangalawyer) May 15, 2024

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is expected to release on November 15 for Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC.