Assassin’s Creed Shadows Star Reveals HUGE Acting Differences!

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In the game “Assassin’s Creed Shadows“, the character portraying the shinobi Naoe was a debutant in video games. Prior to this, Masumi Tsunoda – who goes by the stage name MASUMI – had already gained experience in film and television, marking her first foray into Ubisoft’s assassin roles.

Before the launch of “Assassin’s Creed Shadows,” she shared her insights about acting within a video game, her bond with the character Naoe, and her aspirations for future gaming roles, in an interview with Game Rant. The following excerpt has been streamlined for succinctness and clarity.

MASUMI’s Game Debut

Previously unacquainted with acting in video games, MASUMI found herself immersed in the world of “Assassin’s Creed Shadows”. This was not only her debut in the gaming industry but also the longest time she had invested in a single character. Additionally, activities such as motion capture were entirely novel to her, making this project both an enlightening journey and a fulfillment of a long-cherished dream.

Q: Were you familiar with Assassin’s Creed before taking the role?

A: No, actually, I was not aware at all because I don’t play video games.

Q: What was it like learning about this franchise through acting in it?

Initially, I found it rather daunting, perhaps, as I wasn’t completely clear about what being an assassin or working for a major video game company entailed. However, I was thrilled because the story was set in Japan and featured a Japanese character. I wanted to excel in my role and give it my best shot. There were so many novel aspects to it, which perhaps explains why I focused primarily on my work.

Q: What was the casting process like?

As a fan, I found the casting experience quite intriguing. I received an audition for a role, though I can’t recall if her name was Naoe or something else. Regardless, I felt an instant connection with the character and believed I delivered a solid performance during my audition. Pleased with my submission, I waited patiently, but there was no response for what seemed like six months or so.

Then, surprisingly, they sent me the same audition again, but at that moment, I was content with my initial tryout and decided to stick with it. So I politely declined their offer, thinking my chances of landing the role were slim. After a few more months passed, about three or four, I received an unexpected call-back for the very same part! I was astonished since I hadn’t anticipated getting another opportunity for it.

A multitude of individuals participated in the call, possibly around eight, who were observing the audition. Frankly, I can’t be sure, but it felt incredibly tense. It lasted approximately an hour and a half, and afterwards, I learned that I had been granted the opportunity for the audition. This happened about two years back.

Is this the first video game you’ve worked on? If so, how does the experience of creating it stack up against something like “Naruto: Climbing Silver”?

A: This experience was distinct as Naruto was with companions, making it more relaxed and playful. The atmosphere was about having a good time with friends, something novel for me. To be precise, this project was exceptionally extensive. I’ve been engaged with Naoe for two years, and I haven’t tackled anything as lengthy prior to this. This was my first time doing voiceover work and motion capture. There were numerous fresh aspects to grasp and learn during this job, which was truly exciting.

Q: What did you have to really adjust to for acting in a video game?

You might already be aware that mocap studios are essentially large, open spaces without doors or props, which can be quite different from film and TV sets. Although I had an idea about it due to my background in movies and television, the true nature of mocap acting didn’t fully sink in until I started wearing the motion capture suits. There were instances where physical contact was required, but since cameras were positioned between us, actual touch wasn’t possible. We had to maintain a certain distance, yet I needed to be in close proximity for my performance. To convey intense emotions and use my imagination effectively, I had to overlook these limitations. This aspect presented a unique challenge, and at times, I would ask questions like, ‘Is the door I need to pass through heavy or light? How tall is it?’ Since there was no actual door, I had to engage with the directors to gather details and collaborate to create a realistic experience for everyone involved. This was an intriguing and demanding part of the process.

Forming a Connection with Naoe

In a heartfelt acknowledgement, Brooke Davies, Associate Narrative Director for “Assassin’s Creed Shadows”, lavished praise on MASUMI’s portrayal of Naoe. For MASUMI, though, embodying the shinobi wasn’t a struggle; it felt instinctive. Her affinity for complex yet powerful female characters certainly played a role, but her deep-seated connection with the character was primarily fueled by an immediate bond she formed with the shinobi.

Q: What drew you to Naoe? You said you felt a connection?

A: Absolutely, absolutely. I find Naoe to be straightforward and sincere, without mincing words. She’s deeply devoted to her family, and she’s clear about what she believes is right. She values herself highly and knows herself well, sometimes to a fault, as she can become so focused on her goals that she doesn’t always consider the potential consequences. Interestingly, I identify with this trait quite a bit.

Two themes in Naoe’s story that particularly resonate with me are revenge and forgiveness. These are themes I’ve pondered extensively as well. In fact, when I was a singer-songwriter, I wrote a song titled “Sinking Boat,” which explores the concept of forgiveness. Reading Naoe’s script struck a chord with me in numerous ways.

Q: What inspired your performances?

A: From the get-go, I found myself instantly understanding her, which was quite fortunate. This luck stemmed from my ability to quickly establish a connection with her through the insightful literature in the stories we both read. Additionally, I desired Naoe to embody strength along with vulnerability, as this balance is significant to me. Whenever I portray a strong female character, I ensure that she also possesses vulnerability. In my opinion, Naoe is straightforward and honest, devoid of deceit. She’s passionate about her family, unwavering in her convictions, aware of her worth, and self-assured.

Question: During our conversation with Ubisoft regarding your casting, Brooke Davies, their associate narrative director, emphasized your emotional depth, underlying optimism, and naivete, balanced by conflict and a desire for change. Could you share some insights about the mindset of Naoe, and how you managed to embody her character?

In our discussion with Ubisoft about your casting, Brooke Davies pointed out your emotional sensitivity, underlying optimism, and naivete, combined with conflict and a drive for change. Can you tell us more about the mentality of Naoe, and how you approached portraying her?

I found the setting for this story particularly difficult to immerse myself in, given that it’s set during the Sengoku Era, a time marked by constant warfare. Naoe experiences unrelenting loss, pain, and conflict, which made me reflect on my grandparents’ stories about their wartime experiences. Furthermore, discussions with my father, who lived through the aftermath of war, deepened my understanding of its impact. Lastly, I tried to put myself in the shoes of someone living during that period, witnessing loved ones suffer while enduring such great loss.

It appears I invested a significant amount of time developing and honing Naoe’s skills as an assassin, which is the key to her becoming even more proficient in her role. This process was tough at times, but incredibly fulfilling too.

Working with Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ Other Lead Actor

In the game “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” produced by Ubisoft Quebec, Naoe is one of the two main characters. Initially, there was tension between them, but as portrayed by Tongayi Chirisa – who played the first historical figure to be a protagonist in Assassin’s Creed history – MASUMI quickly developed a strong friendship with him.

Question: Is it known that you collaborated with Tongayi Chirisa, who portrays Yasuke in the production? If so, could you describe the nature of your working relationship?

A: Absolutely, I worked on cinematics alongside him, and the first time we collaborated was actually during a scene featuring Tongayi’s character, although his name wasn’t Yasuke at that point. Interestingly enough, I crafted much of the narrative around his character. Upon meeting him after securing the job, he turned out to be exactly as I had imagined – radiating warm, brotherly energy. We connected instantly. I would say that my friendship with Tongayi is one of the most treasured aspects of this video game project because it has resulted in a priceless lifetime friend. In fact, working with him was always a pleasure. It felt effortless. I’m genuinely grateful to have had the opportunity to work with him throughout this production.

Q: What did you think of his performance?

B: He’s an exceptional performer who is deeply in tune with his feelings. He’s constantly discussing ways to enhance the production, all while keeping things lighthearted, which helps make long filming days with motion capture less exhausting. The gear can be quite heavy and requires getting accustomed to. The scenes we’re working on are intensely emotional. Working alongside him has been both professional and educational due to his extensive experience.

Q: What about the characters’ dynamics with one another? Naoe and Yasuke, what is that like?

The relationship between our characters is engaging since at first, Yasuke essentially intrudes upon my town, Iga, and isn’t someone I initially view as an ally. Our journey together eventually leads us to work in unison, a development that I find fascinating because we stem from such disparate backgrounds. The tale resonates with me because despite our contrasting principles and values, we ultimately share common ground that adds depth to the narrative. Yasuke is this massive samurai in heavy armor who can’t hide, while Naoe is a shadowy figure who moves quietly. This contrast is intriguing, and it seems to permeate our characters as they evolve throughout the story. I believe this contrast, along with the shared values that make the narrative intriguing, will be evident in the final product.

Looking to the Future

Despite Assassin’s Creed Shadows being Masumi’s debut role in video games, she remains optimistic that this won’t be her only venture into this field. As far as she gets to delve deeper into the intricacies of human emotion through a character that is both vulnerable and bold, Masumi expresses eagerness to carry on working within this medium.

Q: Do you think playing more video game characters is something in your future?

A: Absolutely! It feels as though I’ve brought this opportunity about, seeing as I’ve longed to be a video game character. Receiving this offer was like realizing a lifelong dream. With my prior lack of experience in mind, I can confidently say that I now have more under my belt. Indeed, the prospect of revisiting it sounds incredibly enjoyable!

Are there any roles you’d particularly like to take on, whether they’re specific characters you know about or simply types of characters that appeal to you?

A: Absolutely, I’m drawn to roles where a character is battling for something meaningful, whether it’s a personal cause or a larger struggle. I find characters who must confront their inner demons and overcome obstacles particularly compelling. It doesn’t have to be a powerful assassin or the like, but rather a role that allows me to explore the complexities of human emotion. That would be an exciting challenge for me.

To wrap up, is there anything else interesting about the game “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” or any insights from your work on it that you’d like to share further?

As a devoted admirer, let me express my appreciation for the stunning visuals, but it’s the story that truly takes my breath away – equally captivating and beautiful in its own right. It’s an immense privilege to have been part of these narratives, and I eagerly anticipate your journey through them as well.

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2025-03-23 13:06