Yellow paint has become a hot topic of debate lately. Some gamers are frustrated with developers’ choice to illuminate paths with this color in games, perceiving it as immersion-breaking.

One notable example is Assassin’s Creed Shadows, where the presence of yellow paint has stirred discussions. In addressing these concerns, Ubisoft’s creative director, Jonathan Dumont, clarified that the original version of the game did not include yellow paint; its addition came as a response to players’ struggles during playtests. Dumont stated:

“We didn’t have it until players were really struggling in playtests to find their path when engaging in the hidden trails activity.”

He attributes the need for guidance in the lush environments of the game as a justification for the visual cues added. While some argue that this decision undermines the game’s design, many players appreciate the assistance in navigating intricate courses. Ultimately, it raises a question on how much guidance is appropriate in gaming.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows (Image credit: Ubisoft)

Despite the debate, the goal remains clear: to enhance player experience and ensure that every climactic jump or swing in the lush landscapes of Sengoku-era Japan is rewarding.