The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Fans accused Assassin’s Creed Shadows of displaying a sword resembling one of Zoro’s from One Piece at Ubisoft’s Japan Expo booth in July 2024. The available reporting concerns a promotional display prop—not a confirmed in-game weapon—and the circulated photos do not show enough detail to identify the sword.
What sparked the accusation?
On July 14, 2024, ComicBook.com reported backlash over a sword displayed at Ubisoft’s Japan Expo booth. The outlet said attendees described it as a sword belonging to Yasuke, one of the game’s protagonists, and fans compared its appearance to a sword used by Zoro in One Piece. That account reflects what attendees reportedly said; it does not independently establish the prop’s identity.
ComicBook.com also noted that game footage available at the time did not show a katana resembling Kitetsu or another One Piece sword. The allegation was therefore about the booth display, not evidence that the same sword appeared in the game. ComicBook.com’s July 14 report covers the initial reaction. On July 15, LEVEL UP described the comparison as fan claims and raised the possibility that an exhibit prop had been chosen without its association being recognized. LEVEL UP’s report likewise does not identify the sword conclusively.
Can the booth photos prove it was Zoro’s sword?
No. GameLand’s review of the circulated photographs says the sword’s guard—the part that could help distinguish its design—is outside the frame. From those images, it is not possible to determine whether the prop copied a One Piece sword. GameLand identifies several plausible explanations: an original design, an homage, or an off-the-shelf Zoro cosplay accessory. The photos alone do not establish which explanation is correct, or the prop’s maker, seller, licensing status, or provenance. GameLand’s photo analysis explains the limitation.
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- The kind of display piece people ask about - Every detail of this 57 SPECIAL REPLICAS katana reflects the craftsmanship of traditional Japanese swordmaking - hand-engraved fittings, lacquered hardwood scabbard, and cotton braid wrapping on the handle. If you collect real katanas, this piece belongs in your showcase.
- One sword, many ways to display it - Mount it horizontally above a desk, display it vertically in the living room, or set it on the included stand - this Japanese sword and sheath transforms any space into a statement. The lacquered scabbard with engraved tsuba catches the light from every angle.
- From feudal Japan to your shelf - Rooted in the aesthetics of historical Japan and instantly recognizable to fans of anime, ninja lore, and samurai cinema, these katana samurai swords capture the spirit of the era in full-size carbon steel. A conversation starter that needs no introduction.
- The gift they won't see coming - Packaged with a display stand and lacquered scabbard, this showpiece arrives ready to impress - no assembly required beyond placing it where it belongs. A full-size carbon steel katana makes an unforgettable birthday or holiday gift.
- Safe to own, easy to display - This display piece has a dull, blunted upper part - safe on open shelves, desks, and walls without any special storage requirements. Weight: 1.83 lbs with scabbard. The included stand means it's ready to display straight out of the box, no additional hardware needed.
Did Ubisoft respond to the sword allegation?
Ubisoft’s development team published a Japanese-community update on July 23, 2024, acknowledging concern about some promotional materials and apologizing in general terms. The statement does not mention Zoro, One Piece, or the sword, so it is not a specific confirmation or denial of the allegation. Ubisoft described the game as historical fiction and referred to collaboration with consultants, historians, researchers, and Ubisoft Japan. Its statement says, “Assassin’s Creed Shadows is first and foremost, designed to be an entertaining video game that tells a compelling, historical fiction set in Feudal Japan.” That is a general description of the game, not an answer about the prop. Read Ubisoft’s July 23 statement.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What is established—and what remains unknown?
- Established by the reporting: A sword was displayed at Ubisoft’s Japan Expo booth, and fans said it looked like one of Zoro’s swords.
- Not established: The exact sword model, whether it was an authentic One Piece replica, who supplied it, or whether it was licensed merchandise.
- Not shown by the allegation: That the sword appeared as an asset in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. The cited reporting distinguishes the promotional display from the game itself.
- Not resolved by Ubisoft’s statement: Whether the display prop was selected or sourced as One Piece-related merchandise.
In short, the resemblance prompted a plagiarism accusation, but the available images and Ubisoft’s general statement do not prove copying, intent, or the prop’s identity. Calling it a confirmed case of plagiarism—or a confirmed in-game crossover—would go beyond the evidence.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 1. Includes:【1 sword,belt,Sword bracket】The shape and texture of the anime sword are all made according to the original animation
- 2. Total length 41 inches, blade length 27.7 inches, handle length 11.2 inches, scabbard length 29.5 inches, weight 1.1 pounds
- 3. The carefully crafted lightweight sword is made of plastic
- 4.This decorative prop is crafted exclusively for aesthetic display and is in no way a weapon, weapon accessory, or hazardous device. Made from safe, non-functional plastic materials, it poses no risk of harm and is intended strictly as a collectible or costume accessory.
- 5.This collectible display prop is strictly for decorative purposes only and is not a toy. It is not intended for use by children under 14 years old. Keep out of reach of children and pets to ensure safety.
Rank #4
- Premium 1060 High Carbon Steel Blade. Hand-forged & high-temp blue tempered finish, laser engraved deep fire dragon pattern, finely ground sharp edge for display, training and collection.
- Ergonomic Non-Slip Tsuka Handle. Tightly wrapped thick faux ray skin tsuka delivers stable anti-slip grip; hand-woven nylon sageo cord matches the whole black vintage aesthetic.
- Durable Embossed Dragon Scabbard. ABS inner sheath wrapped with dark embossed dragon texture fabric, scratch-resistant & sturdy, effectively protects your katana blade long-term.
- Artisan Four‑Petal Cloud Tsuba Handguard. Solid black matte cloud‑shaped guard serves both safety and ornamentation; iconic Japanese antique design adds elegant retro detailing to your katana collection.
- Complete Katana Display Set with Included Sword Stand. Specifications: 38.78" overall, 26.77" blade, 9.84" handle, 1.18" max blade width, 2.52 lbs total weight. A matching display stand comes with every order.
Rank #3
- PERFECT SIZE - The katana sword’s full length is about 40.55”/103cm, 27.76"/70.5cm blade, 10.43"/26.5cm handle.
- HIGH QUALITY MATERIAL - The katana sword is handmade entirely of 1060 carbon steel in over 10 traditional processes, including Annealing, Tempering, Quenching and other technology for heating processing, ultra sharp and durable.
- ERGONOMIC HANDLE - The wooden handle is wrapped with soft cotton wire and with ergonomic design to fit your palm perfectly, easy to grip, providing you with max comfort while using.
- This product can be used to protect you from ferocious beasts during camping or outdoor activities. It can be given as a gift or for collection
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Rank #2
- SPECIAL NOTE - The package comes with 1X Tanjiro Sword, 1X White Holster Belt and 1X Sword Stand, This Sword is not suitable for slashing objects
- MATERIAL - The blade material is shown in Figure 3, The scabbard and the handguard are made of Hard Plastic
- DIMENSIONS - About 23.6 inches Total length, About 0.8 pounds Total weight
- SAFE FOR USE - This sword is the best safe choice for cosplay, which is intended for children aged over 14 years old and cosplayers
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