The Assassin’s Creed franchise is known for including history and myth in its games, and its latest installment, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, pushes that tradition even further with its connection to Naruto. Set in Sengoku-era Japan, the game introduces two protagonists, Yasuke, inspired by the historical African samurai, and Naoe, a shinobi assassin hailing from Iga province. While Yasuke is similar to the action-heavy combat style characters of recent entries in the Assassin’s Creed franchise, Naoe brings back the stealth gameplay reminiscent of the series’ roots.

In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, the creative director of Assassin’s Creed Shadows has revealed that Naoe’s gameplay includes a running animation that subtly mirrors the iconic “Naruto run.” For fans of both anime and gaming, this crossover is the perfect treat, blending the stealth and precision of the Assassin’s Creed franchise with one of anime’s most beloved series of all time.

The “Naruto Run” and Stealth Synergy

Naoe’s Sprinting Style is a Ninja’s Nod to Naruto

Naoe’s ability to perform a “Naruto run” is more than a fun Easter egg, it makes her role as the series’ fastest assassin even better. By leaning forward with her arms extended behind her, Naoe channels the iconic anime sprint style, making rooftop chases and stealth missions more fun and speedy. Dumont described this feature as a “wink-wink” to anime fans, acknowledging how Naruto influenced her design.

This nod is especially fitting given Naoe’s background as a shinobi. In Naruto, Naruto and his friends frequently use this running style during missions, showing off their agility and determination. Naoe’s stealthy gameplay in Assassin’s Creed Shadow’s captures that same sense of spirit, allowing players to feel like a stealthy ninja while honoring the anime’s cultural impact. It is a very clever way to bridge the gap between historical fiction and pop culture.

Hidden Blades and Shinobi Secrets

Naruto’s Legacy Lives On in Naoe’s Stealthy Skillset

Beyond her running style, Naoe’s gear and story are also similar to Naruto. Her Hidden Blade, gifted by her father, carries a deeper mystery tied to her lineage, much like the way Naruto’s journey is focused on uncovering his family’s legacy. This layered storytelling lines up with Naruto’s themes of perseverance, self-discovery, and embracing one’s role in the world.

For fans of both Assassin’s Creed and Naruto, Naoe represents the perfect blend of the two worlds. Her connection to the beloved anime adds a layer of excitement to Assassin’s Creed Shadows, making sure the game resonates with a wide audience. Whether sprinting across rooftops or unlocking the mysteries of her past, Naoe’s journey is a thrilling tribute to the art of the ninja and to Naruto’s enduring legacy.