Shadows Release Date And 10 Things You Should Know

If you’re a little worried about Assassin’s Creed Shadows, it’s a logical worry. History suggests multiple delays can be a bad omen for video games, but that’s not always the case.

As a fan of the series, I’m personally hoping it is as cool as it appears. Here are the 10 things you should know about Assassin’s Creed Shadows.

Release Date

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set to launch on March 20, 2025. After two delays from its original November 15, 2024, target and a subsequent February 14, 2025, date, this one seems to be rock solid as we sit just under two weeks from launch.

According to Ubisoft, it delayed the game to polish and refine the experience. They hope to ensure it meets fan expectations.

Platforms

ASC will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC (via Ubisoft Store, Steam, and Epic Games Store), Amazon Luna, and Macs with Apple Silicon (via the Mac App Store), with a future release planned for iPad. This will be the first title in the series in over a decade to skip last-gen consoles like PS4 and Xbox One. Ubisoft hopes ASC delivers the sort of visual fidelity that would put it out of range for older consoles.

Pre-Order Offers

Consumers who pre-order Assassin’s Creed Shadows will receive the “Thrown to the Dogs” bonus quest at launch and free access to the “Claws of Awaji” expansion, set to release later in 2025.

Claws of Awaji has over 10 hours of additional content. The available editions include the Standard Edition ($69.99), Digital Deluxe Edition ($89.99) with extra cosmetic packs, and a Collector’s Edition ($280), which is exclusive to GameStop.

The super-hardcore physical edition features a dual-character statue, steelbook, artbook, and more. Ubisoft+ Premium subscribers get the Ultimate Edition on day one. There are several pre-order offers. I’d advise visiting the website of the store you’re considering to weigh your options based on the offer and availability if you’re getting a physical version.

The Gameplay Features Dual Protagonists with Unique Playstyles

The two protagonists for ASC are Naoe, a stealth-focused shinobi assassin from Iga Province, and Yasuke, a powerful African samurai based on a historical figure. Users will be able to switch back and forth between the two characters.

As you might expect, Naoe and Yasuke have different strengths. Naoe excels in parkour and silent eliminations, using tools like a grappling hook, while Yasuke dominates in melee combat. This dual-protagonist system is similar to Assassin’s Creed Syndicate. The dual-character approach is designed to work well with some of the gameplay systems.

The Feudal Japan Setting and an Open World

ASC is set in the late Sengoku period. The events in the game happen during Japan’s unification under Oda Nobunaga. A huge and well-crafted open world was built to replicate central Japan’s historical provinces (e.g., Iga, Omi).

If the images and video I’ve seen do it justice, ASC could be one of the more visually impressive games to release this year.

Seasonal and Weather Dynamics

Adding to the visual performance, ASC will introduce a seasonal cycle (spring, summer, autumn, winter) that works with the events of the campaign. According to Ubisoft, the weather conditions will impact gameplay. Each season will present unique structures and hiding places. For example, summer offers bushes for hiding, while winter’s snow will crunch under your feet, potentially alerting enemies.

I’m excited to see how this is executed. I’m a sucker for timelapse concepts in video games.

Customization and Hideout Features

This year, players can build and customize a shinobi hideout, including a forge for weapon upgrades and aesthetic ornaments via the Sekiryu Hideout Pack.

Users can customize their gear on five value levels while also leveling up equipment stats. It’s a home base that seems to be interwoven into the campaign’s story.

Combat and Stealth

ASC’s combat system offers multi-weapon fighting, a parry system, and signature moves for Naoe and Yasuke. As usual, stealth mechanics are a major part of any Assassin’s Creed title.

Story and Historical Context

ASC isn’t attempting to be historically accurate but rather a creative take on a time period in Japanese history. It appears Ubisoft deliberately addresses the exclusion of certain races and gender representation through the identities of its two protagonists.

I’m interested in seeing if any tough topics are explored in the game’s dialogue.

Post-Launch Content and Future Potential

Ubisoft looks to have plans of expanding ASC further than previous titles in terms of post-launch content. In addition to the Claws of Awaji expansion, ASC appears to be headed for a co-op mode, though this is unconfirmed. New content will likely be introduced through the Animus Hub, a new launcher that offers weekly challenges and a free battle pass, integrating ASC with post-Syndicate titles. Be on the lookout for more coverage on ASC as we get closer to the release.