Mackenyu Maeda, popularly known simply as Mackenyu, has recently been announced as part of the voice cast for Ubisoft’s highly anticipated video game, “Assassin’s Creed Shadows.” This addition to the franchise is particularly exciting, as Mackenyu has gained recognition for his role as Roronoa Zoro in Netflix’s live-action adaptation of the beloved anime series “One Piece.” In “Assassin’s Creed Shadows,” he will lend his voice to a pivotal character named Gennojo, who plays a significant role in assisting the protagonist in tracking down and eliminating a vital target.
Gennojo is described by Ubisoft as a member of the Shinobi League, a group integral to the game’s narrative. Players will have the opportunity to recruit him into their ‘brotherhood’ for support throughout their journey. The character is painted as charming yet reckless, deeply torn by his past and driven by a sense of guilt to bring down a corrupt system. Gennojo is characterized as a flirtatious rogue and a trickster, balancing wit and deceit with an undeniable swagger. His motivations are anchored in a profound desire for justice, particularly when it comes to aiding the less fortunate and the elderly, which adds a layer of complexity to his character.
After facing several delays, “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” is set to launch on March 20. Originally slated for a November release, the game was postponed to February and then ultimately to March due to the underwhelming performance of “Star Wars Outlaws.” This prompted Ubisoft to take extra time to fine-tune the quality and make necessary adjustments to ensure that “Shadows” meets the expectations of fans and gamers alike.
In a recent conversation with Variety, Mackenyu opened up about his experience entering the world of the “Assassin’s Creed” franchise and shared insights into what fans can expect from the upcoming second season of Netflix’s “One Piece.”
When asked about the casting process for his role in “Assassin’s Creed Shadows,” Mackenyu revealed that he received an offer for the part. He expressed his excitement, noting that the “Assassin’s Creed” series was the first video game he ever played during his middle school years. Although he didn’t own a PS3 at the time, he would visit a friend’s house to play the game, sharing the experience with others. The prospect of being involved in a game set in Japan was particularly enticing for him, prompting his desire to be a part of this project.
Regarding his character Gennojo, Mackenyu described him as a crucial ally to the main characters, aiding them in their missions within the game. As a member of the Shinobi League, Gennojo can be recruited into the player’s team, allowing for a unique interactive experience. He also noted that the character bears a resemblance to him, as his likeness was used for Gennojo, which he found to be an exciting aspect of the role.
Mackenyu also clarified that his role in “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” primarily involved voice acting, as there was no motion capture involved. However, he did participate in a scan process, ensuring that Gennojo’s character closely mirrors his physical appearance. Although he expressed a wish that there had been time for motion capture to enhance the character further, he found the experience of recording the dialogue in Toronto to be enjoyable. It was his first time voicing a video game character, making it a memorable occasion for him.
The conversation also touched upon the upcoming “Assassin’s Creed” television series that is currently in development at Netflix. When asked if he would be interested in reprising his role as Gennojo or taking on another character in the series, Mackenyu enthusiastically expressed his desire to be considered for the project.
As for “One Piece” Season 2, Mackenyu was excited to share that there will be many new characters introduced. He refrained from revealing too much to avoid spoilers but mentioned that the season would cover the arc leading up to the introduction of Chopper, one of the series’ most beloved characters. Mackenyu also shared his excitement about meeting the character of Chopper, describing him as incredibly cute and expressing his admiration for the character.
The anticipation for both “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” and the second season of “One Piece” continues to grow among fans. Mackenyu’s involvement in these two significant projects highlights his versatility as an actor, seamlessly transitioning from live-action roles to voice acting in video games.
Ubisoft’s commitment to delivering a high-quality gaming experience with “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” is evident in their decision to take the time needed to refine the game. The shifts in release dates reflect the company’s dedication to meeting the expectations of a loyal fanbase that has followed the series for years.
Mackenyu’s role as Gennojo is not just about lending his voice; it’s about bringing a character to life that resonates with players. His portrayal promises to add depth to the gameplay experience, melding his personal passion for the franchise with his professional artistry.
With the release of “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” on the horizon, gamers and fans alike can look forward to exploring the richly detailed world of Feudal Japan. The game is set to expand on the established lore of the franchise while introducing fresh narratives and characters, including Mackenyu’s Gennojo.
As anticipation builds for the second season of “One Piece,” fans are eager to see how the story continues to unfold and how new characters will intertwine with the beloved crew. Mackenyu’s insights offer a glimpse into the exciting developments ahead, promising a season filled with adventure, new friendships, and challenges.
In summary, Mackenyu Maeda’s participation in “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” marks a significant milestone in his career, bridging his love for gaming with his acting talents. As fans await the release of the game and the new season of “One Piece,” they can look forward to a blend of innovation and nostalgia that both projects are sure to deliver.
