Get ready to journey to feudal Japan as Assassin’s Creed Shadows prepares for its upcoming release. The highly anticipated game will launch worldwide on March 20, 2025, across multiple platforms including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Windows, macOS, and iPadOS. After facing two delays from its original November 2024 target, Ubisoft has confirmed this new release date with a commitment to delivering a high-quality, immersive experience.
Fans of the series will be happy to know that pre-loading will be available several days before launch. Steam users can begin pre-loading on March 17 at 9:00 AM PST (4:00 PM UTC), while console players will be able to jump into the game at midnight local time on the release date. This gives players plenty of time to prepare for their adventure in this new chapter of the Assassin’s Creed franchise.
Release Date and Platforms
Ubisoft has officially announced that Assassin’s Creed Shadows will release on November 15, 2024. The game will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Ubisoft Connect. Mac users aren’t left out this time—there’s a version optimized for macOS, and it’s confirmed to run natively on Apple Silicon devices. For those who prefer cloud gaming, it will also be available on Amazon Luna.
And in a welcome twist, Ubisoft reversed its earlier stance and confirmed Assassin’s Creed Shadows will support the Steam Deck at launch.
Setting: Feudal Japan in the Late Sengoku Period
For years, fans have been clamoring for an Assassin’s Creed set in Japan, and Shadows finally delivers. The game unfolds in 1579, toward the end of Japan’s Sengoku period, a time of brutal warlords, shifting allegiances, and civil unrest.
The world of Assassin’s Creed Shadows promises a dynamic open world, where regions experience seasonal changes, affecting gameplay and NPC behavior. During winter, lakes freeze over, opening new traversal routes; in summer, tall grass provides cover for stealth attacks. The attention to cultural and historical authenticity is immediately clear—villages, castles, and shrines are all meticulously recreated to immerse players in feudal Japan.
Dual Protagonists: Yasuke and Naoe
Yasuke: The African Samurai
Yasuke is a powerful, heavily armored samurai based on the historical figure of the same name. Unlike previous protagonists, Yasuke isn’t a silent assassin. He’s a warrior who stands out in every crowd. His gameplay style is direct and confrontational, focusing on brutal melee combat with katanas, kanabō, and polearms. Yasuke excels in open fights, overwhelming enemies with strength and precision.
Naoe: The Shinobi Assassin
Naoe, on the other hand, represents the traditional stealth gameplay Assassin’s Creed is known for. As a nimble shinobi, she uses blow darts, kunai, smoke bombs, and a grappling hook to stay hidden and strike from the shadows. Her gameplay emphasizes infiltration, silent takedowns, and parkour, including wall running and rooftop traversal.
Players can switch between Yasuke and Naoe, tailoring their approach to missions based on preference or strategy. Some missions might encourage stealth; others call for a more direct approach. Ubisoft promises player choice will be at the heart of every decision.
Gameplay Innovations and Features
Dynamic World Systems
The world in Shadows is more reactive than any previous Assassin’s Creed title. NPC schedules are impacted by time of day, weather, and seasons. Enemies will act differently depending on these factors, requiring players to adapt constantly.
Hideouts and Spy Networks
Players can manage a hidden lair, where they recruit spies, upgrade gear, and send agents on missions to gather intel. Information gathered through the spy network opens up new assassination opportunities and alternative mission strategies.
Realistic Stealth and Combat
The stealth system has received a major overhaul. Shadows are no longer static; dynamic lighting plays a major role in hiding. Players can extinguish lamps or manipulate light sources to stay hidden. Meanwhile, combat physics and animations are more fluid and brutal than ever, making every strike feel impactful.
Expansion and Post-Launch Plans
Ubisoft has already confirmed a major expansion called “Claws of Awaji”, which will launch sometime in 2025. Players who pre-order Shadows—any edition—get free access to the expansion. Claws of Awaji explores a new region, introduces unique enemies, and offers over ten hours of new content.
Additionally, Ubisoft is continuing its post-launch support strategy, with seasonal content, gear drops, and quality-of-life updates expected for at least a year after launch.
Editions and Pre-Order Bonuses
Assassin’s Creed Shadows will be available in multiple editions:
- Standard Edition: Base game only.
- Gold Edition: Includes a season pass and three-day early access.
- Ultimate Edition: Adds an exclusive character pack, additional quests, and unique weapons.
Pre-ordering any edition guarantees three days early access, as well as a bonus quest called “Thrown to the Dogs.”
Final Thoughts
Assassin’s Creed Shadows isn’t just a long-awaited journey into feudal Japan—it’s a turning point for the franchise. With its deep historical setting, innovative gameplay systems, and dual protagonists offering wildly different playstyles, this entry aims to redefine what Assassin’s Creed can be.
Whether you’re drawn to Yasuke’s samurai strength or Naoe’s silent lethality, there’s something in Shadows for every kind of player. Ubisoft looks poised to deliver not just a game, but an experience.
Key Takeaways
- Assassin’s Creed Shadows releases on March 20, 2025, across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Windows, macOS, and iPadOS.
- Pre-loading starts on March 17 for Steam users, with console players able to play at midnight local time on release day.
- Ubisoft delayed the game twice from its original November 2024 date to ensure a high-quality gaming experience.
Background of ‘Assassin’s Creed Shadows’
Assassin’s Creed Shadows represents a significant milestone for the franchise as it finally explores feudal Japan, a setting fans have requested for years. The game draws heavily from Japanese history while maintaining the core elements that define the series.
The Evolution of the Assassin’s Creed Franchise
The Assassin’s Creed series has undergone remarkable changes since its debut in 2007. Initially focused on stealth and parkour mechanics, the franchise has expanded its gameplay systems substantially over time.
Recent entries like Assassin’s Creed Odyssey introduced RPG elements and dialogue choices. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla further refined these mechanics while emphasizing settlement building and Viking raids.
Assassin’s Creed Mirage marked a return to the franchise’s roots with more focused stealth gameplay. This shift demonstrated Ubisoft’s willingness to adapt based on player feedback.
Shadows appears to balance these approaches, offering both stealth-based gameplay and deeper narrative elements. The dual protagonist system represents another evolution for the series, allowing players to experience different perspectives of the same historical period.
Sengoku Period as a Setting
Shadows takes place in 16th-century Japan during the Sengoku period, a time of significant political upheaval and civil war. This era, known as the “Warring States” period, offers a rich backdrop for the game’s narrative.
The setting features powerful warlords called daimyo who fought for control over territories. Samurai warriors, ninja agents, and shifting political alliances defined this chaotic time in Japanese history.
The game explores the end of the Sengoku period, a pivotal moment when Japan began transitioning toward unification. This historical context provides natural tension that aligns with the Assassin-Templar conflict central to the franchise.
Players will navigate complex political landscapes while experiencing authentic Japanese culture of the era. The period’s architecture, weapons, and social structures offer fresh gameplay opportunities not seen in previous installments.
Influence of Previous Titles
Shadows builds upon mechanics and systems refined through previous Assassin’s Creed titles. The open-world design draws from the expansive environments of Odyssey and Valhalla, while potentially incorporating the tighter stealth focus of Mirage.
Combat appears to blend elements from across the franchise. The dual protagonist system echoes Assassin’s Creed Syndicate, which featured siblings Jacob and Evie Frye as playable characters.
The game’s narrative likely continues the modern-day storyline while exploring how the Japanese Brotherhood connects to the wider Assassin organization. This approach maintains continuity with the overarching plot established in earlier games.
Shadows represents Ubisoft’s effort to address fan requests while pushing the franchise forward. After multiple delays from its original November 2024 release date, the development team has focused on delivering a polished experience that honors both Japanese history and the series’ legacy.
Key Features and Gameplay Mechanics
Assassin’s Creed Shadows brings innovative gameplay elements to the franchise through its feudal Japan setting. The game combines traditional stealth mechanics with new movement systems and character dynamics.
Parkour and Stealth Elements
Assassin’s Creed Shadows elevates the series’ signature parkour system with Japan-specific environmental features. Players can traverse temples, castles, and hidden trails designed specifically for parkour movement.
The stealth system has been refined to incorporate traditional shinobi tactics. Players can hide in tall grass, blend with crowds in marketplaces, and use new tools like smoke bombs and grappling hooks.
Environmental interaction has been expanded, allowing players to use natural elements like water and foliage for concealment. The game introduces “shadow paths” – specialized routes that only skilled assassins can detect and navigate.
Night and day cycles significantly affect stealth opportunities, with darkness providing better cover for missions.
Dual Protagonists Storyline
Shadows features two playable characters with distinct playstyles. The shinobi character focuses on speed, agility, and stealth, while the samurai character emphasizes combat prowess and strength.
Each protagonist has:
- Unique weapons and skills
- Different approaches to missions
- Separate but interconnected storylines
Players can switch between characters at certain points in the story, creating strategic opportunities to approach objectives from different perspectives. This dual-protagonist system impacts not only gameplay but also narrative development.
The characters’ contrasting backgrounds (shinobi and samurai) represent the cultural tensions of feudal Japan, adding depth to the storytelling.
Integration of Shinobi and Samurai Lore
Historical accuracy combines with Assassin’s Creed mythology to create an authentic feudal Japan experience. Traditional shinobi techniques like disguise, distraction, and specialized weaponry are core gameplay elements.
Samurai combat incorporates historically accurate sword fighting styles. Players can master different stances and techniques based on actual martial arts from the period.
The game features:
- Real historical locations and figures
- Authentic period weapons and armor
- Traditional Japanese combat styles
Cultural elements like tea ceremonies, temple rituals, and period-appropriate social structures appear throughout the game. These details enhance immersion while providing context for the assassin-templar conflict within Japanese history.
Anticipation in the Community
The upcoming release of Assassin’s Creed Shadows has sparked significant interest among fans, with discussions focusing on expectations, comparisons to previous titles, and potential industry impact.
Community Expectations and Discussion
Players across gaming forums have been actively discussing what they hope to see in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. The March 20, 2025 release date announcement has given the community more time to build anticipation.
Many fans express excitement about the Japanese setting, which has been a highly requested location for years. The dual protagonist system featuring Naoe and Yasuke has generated positive feedback, with players looking forward to experiencing different gameplay styles.
The delay from the original release window has been met with mixed reactions. While some players express disappointment, others welcome Ubisoft’s commitment to “delivering a high-quality, immersive experience” as mentioned in their statement.
Discord channels and Reddit threads are filled with theories about gameplay mechanics and storyline possibilities. The 20 minutes of castle gameplay footage released recently has fueled even more discussion about stealth elements and combat systems.
Comparison with ‘Assassin’s Creed Valhalla’
Fans are drawing numerous comparisons between Shadows and the previous major entry, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla. The community appears particularly interested in how Shadows will improve upon Valhalla’s RPG elements and open-world design.
Valhalla’s lengthy campaign received mixed feedback, with some players appreciating the content while others felt it was too bloated. Many community members hope Shadows will offer a more focused narrative experience while maintaining depth.
Combat mechanics are another point of comparison. Valhalla’s Viking-themed combat was praised for its brutality, but some players felt it lacked finesse. The samurai and shinobi combat styles previewed for Shadows suggest a potentially more varied and technical approach.
Visual fidelity is frequently mentioned in discussions. Valhalla pushed previous generation hardware, while Shadows is being developed primarily for current-gen consoles, creating expectations for significant graphical improvements.
Speculations on ‘Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ Impact
Industry analysts and community members are speculating about how Shadows might influence both the franchise and the wider gaming landscape. The title’s focus on feudal Japan could potentially attract players who enjoyed Ghost of Tsushima and Sekiro.
Many believe Shadows represents a critical moment for Ubisoft, especially following recent company restructuring mentioned in connection with the game’s delay. Success could help stabilize the publisher’s position in the market.
The global release timing across different time zones (10 PM GMT on March 19th for London, 12 AM EDT on March 20th for New York) has sparked discussions about coordinated community events and simultaneous playthroughs.
Content creators are preparing for extensive coverage, with many planning livestreams, guides, and analysis videos. This community-created content ecosystem is expected to significantly boost the game’s visibility and player engagement during launch week.
Marketing and Pre-Release Insights
Ubisoft’s marketing campaign for Assassin’s Creed Shadows reveals significant investment in building anticipation despite the game’s delays. The pre-order numbers show moderate success with room for growth as the March 2025 release approaches.
Trailer Breakdown and Analysis
The reveal trailer for Assassin’s Creed Shadows showcased feudal Japan’s stunning landscapes and introduced the dual protagonists: shinobi Naoe and samurai Yasuke. The trailer highlighted the contrasting playstyles between stealth and combat-focused gameplay.
Visual elements emphasized period-accurate architecture and clothing, with careful attention to historical details that fans have requested for years. The trailer’s musical score blended traditional Japanese instruments with the iconic Assassin’s Creed theme.
Recent gameplay trailers have focused on the open-world elements and the redesigned parkour system. Each promotional video has strategically revealed new game mechanics while maintaining mystery around the central storyline.
Marketing Strategies by Ubisoft
Ubisoft has employed a multi-channel approach to market Shadows despite the challenges of multiple delays. Social media campaigns have featured developer interviews and historical context about feudal Japan.
The company organized exclusive press events where gaming journalists could experience early builds. These previews generated positive buzz about the combat system and visual fidelity.
Ubisoft partnered with Japanese cultural experts to ensure authenticity, which they’ve highlighted in behind-the-scenes content. This approach aims to address concerns about cultural representation.
The marketing team has been transparent about the reasons for delays, emphasizing quality improvements rather than technical issues. This messaging tries to maintain consumer confidence despite the postponements.
Pre-Order Details and Special Editions
Current reports indicate Assassin’s Creed Shadows has reached approximately 300,000 pre-orders. This number falls short of previous titles, with analysts suggesting Ubisoft needs 100,000-150,000 more pre-orders to match Assassin’s Creed Odyssey’s performance.
The game offers several purchase options:
- Standard Edition: Base game only
- Gold Edition: Includes season pass and three-day early access
- Collector’s Edition: Features a detailed statue of both protagonists, art book, and exclusive in-game items
Pre-order bonuses include a special mission and unique cosmetic items for both playable characters. Digital pre-orders through Ubisoft Connect provide additional benefits like bonus Helix credits.
Retailer-specific editions offer exclusive collectibles, with particular focus on the Japanese market where special partnerships with local brands have been established.
Launch Details
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is scheduled for a worldwide release following multiple delays. The game will launch simultaneously across all platforms with specific release timing based on region.
Release Date Confirmation
Ubisoft has officially confirmed March 20, 2025, as the release date for Assassin’s Creed Shadows. This represents the final launch date after two previous postponements from the original target of November 15, 2024. The publisher cited a commitment to delivering a “high-quality, immersive experience” as the primary reason for the delays.
For most players, the game will unlock at midnight local time on March 20, regardless of time zone. This global rollout ensures all players gain access to the game at the earliest possible moment in their region.
The confirmation came through an official Ubisoft announcement, providing certainty for fans who have been anticipating this latest entry in the long-running franchise.
Availability on Platforms
Assassin’s Creed Shadows will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC platforms at launch. Console players can expect the game to unlock precisely at midnight in their local time zones on March 20.
PC players will have multiple storefronts to choose from, including:
- Ubisoft Connect (Ubisoft’s own launcher)
- Steam
- Epic Games Store
PC release times may differ slightly from console launches, though specific timing details for PC platforms haven’t been fully disclosed yet. Digital pre-orders are currently available across all platforms, with various editions offering different bonus content.
Physical editions will be available at retailers worldwide on the release date.
Day-One Updates and Support
Players should prepare for a day-one update when Assassin’s Creed Shadows launches. While the exact size hasn’t been announced, modern AAA releases typically require substantial launch-day patches.
Ubisoft plans to provide ongoing support for the game following its release. This includes:
- Bug fixes and performance optimizations
- Balance adjustments
- Regular content updates
The development team has emphasized their commitment to community feedback and continued dialogue with players. This suggests they plan to address technical issues quickly and implement quality-of-life improvements based on player experiences.
Server maintenance schedules will likely be announced closer to the release date for the game’s online features and services.
Narrative and Historical Accuracy
Assassin’s Creed Shadows blends fictional storytelling with historical elements from 16th century Japan’s Sengoku Period, featuring both invented characters and real historical figures.
Storytelling in ‘Assassin’s Creed Shadows’
The narrative of Assassin’s Creed Shadows centers around dual protagonists with contrasting gameplay styles. Naoe, a fictional character, specializes in stealth gameplay that aligns with traditional Assassin’s Creed mechanics. Her storyline explores the complex political landscape of feudal Japan.
Yasuke, the second playable character, is based on the historical African samurai who served under Oda Nobunaga. His combat-focused gameplay reflects his real-life background as a warrior. The game uses this dual-protagonist approach to provide players with varied gameplay experiences while telling a more nuanced story.
The narrative unfolds during the tumultuous Sengoku Period, a time of civil war and social upheaval. This setting provides a rich backdrop for the game’s exploration of themes like honor, duty, and cultural exchange.
Historical Characters and Events
The game incorporates several authentic historical figures from 16th century Japan. Oda Nobunaga, one of Japan’s great unifiers, appears as a key character who historically employed the real Yasuke as a samurai in his service.
Other historical figures likely to appear include:
- Toyotomi Hideyoshi
- Tokugawa Ieyasu
- Hattori Hanzō
- Akechi Mitsuhide
The game’s events take place against the backdrop of actual historical conflicts and political maneuvering during the Sengoku Period. This includes power struggles between rival daimyo (feudal lords) and the gradual unification of Japan.
Players will witness pivotal historical moments while experiencing them through the perspectives of both Yasuke and Naoe.
Authenticity and Creative Liberties
Ubisoft has invested in historical research to create an authentic representation of 16th century Japan. This includes detailed recreations of architecture, clothing, weapons, and social customs of the period.
The game accurately portrays Yasuke as one of the first non-Japanese samurai, acknowledging his African origins and unique position in Japanese society. This reflects historical records of the real Yasuke who arrived in Japan with Jesuit missionaries.
However, creative liberties have been taken to fit the Assassin’s Creed formula. The introduction of Naoe as a fictional character allows the narrative to explore aspects of Japanese society that might otherwise be inaccessible.
The game balances historical accuracy with engaging gameplay and storytelling requirements. While major historical events remain intact, smaller details and character motivations may be adjusted to create a cohesive narrative within the game’s universe.
Comparison with Other Entertainment Media
Assassin’s Creed Shadows enters a media landscape filled with feudal Japan-inspired content and evolving stealth gameplay mechanics that players have experienced across various franchises.
Influence of ‘Star Wars Outlaws’ on Stealth Gameplay
Star Wars Outlaws, which released several months before AC Shadows, has notably influenced stealth gameplay expectations for open-world titles in 2025. Both games feature protagonists who rely on stealth and cunning rather than brute force.
AC Shadows incorporates a dual-protagonist approach with Naoe, a shinobi character whose gameplay mechanics show similarities to the stealth systems in Outlaws. Both games emphasize:
- Environmental awareness
- Multiple approach options to objectives
- Sound-based detection systems
- Non-lethal takedown options
Where Outlaws focused on sci-fi gadgetry, Shadows embraces historical ninja tools and techniques. The critical reception of Outlaws’ stealth systems likely influenced late-stage development tweaks to Shadows’ gameplay.
Similarities with Contemporary Ninja and Samurai Media
AC Shadows enters a market saturated with recent samurai and ninja content across film, TV, and games. The game shares thematic elements with popular media like:
Games:
- Ghost of Tsushima (historical setting, samurai combat)
- Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice (ninja movement, tools)
TV/Film:
- “Shogun” FX series (historical Japanese political intrigue)
- “The First Ninja” Netflix documentary (historical ninja techniques)
Shadows distinguishes itself by blending the Assassin’s Creed lore with feudal Japanese history. The game’s dual protagonists allow it to explore both samurai and shinobi perspectives simultaneously.
The character designs and combat animations appear inspired by traditional Japanese media but with the series’ signature Hidden Blade mechanics integrated into the feudal Japanese setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Players interested in Assassin’s Creed Shadows have many questions ahead of its March 20, 2025 release. The game offers multiple editions, pre-order bonuses, and will be available across several platforms with specific hardware requirements and features.
What platforms will Assassin’s Creed Shadows be available on at launch?
Assassin’s Creed Shadows will launch simultaneously on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. The game has been optimized for current-generation consoles to take advantage of their hardware capabilities.
PC players should check the minimum and recommended specifications before purchasing. Ubisoft has confirmed the game will support ray tracing on compatible hardware, enhancing the visual experience of feudal Japan.
How can players download Assassin’s Creed Shadows after its release?
Console players can download Assassin’s Creed Shadows from their respective digital storefronts – PlayStation Store for PS5 and Microsoft Store for Xbox Series X|S. Physical copies will also be available at retail locations.
PC players can download the game through the Ubisoft Connect platform or other authorized digital retailers. Pre-loading will likely be available a few days before launch, allowing players to prepare for immediate play upon release.
What are the different editions and pricing for Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
Assassin’s Creed Shadows will be available in multiple editions. The Standard Edition includes the base game with no additional content.
The Deluxe Edition includes the base game plus additional in-game cosmetic items and early unlocks for certain weapons and outfits. The Gold Edition contains the base game, season pass, and early access benefits.
The Ultimate Edition offers everything in the Gold Edition plus exclusive cosmetic packs and premium items. Pricing varies by region and platform, with higher tiers commanding premium prices.
Are there any bonuses for pre-ordering Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
Pre-order bonuses for Assassin’s Creed Shadows include exclusive missions and cosmetic items. Players who secure their copy before launch will receive special in-game content not available to those who purchase after release.
Different retailers may offer unique pre-order incentives, such as physical collectibles or additional digital content. Ubisoft’s own store typically provides the most comprehensive pre-order package.
Can gamers gain early access to Assassin’s Creed Shadows prior to its official launch date?
Early access will likely be available for purchasers of premium editions like the Gold or Ultimate Editions. Typically, Ubisoft grants these players access several days before the standard release date.
Some regions in Asia and Oceania may get access as early as the evening of March 19, 2025, due to time zone differences. The exact early access timeframe will be confirmed closer to launch.
What new features can players expect in Assassin’s Creed Shadows compared to previous entries in the series?
Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces dual protagonists – a shinobi assassin and a samurai warrior – each with unique playstyles and abilities. This offers players different approaches to missions and combat.
The game is set in feudal Japan, a highly requested setting by fans for many years. Players will explore a detailed recreation of historical Japan with improved stealth mechanics and combat systems.
The parkour system has been enhanced to better suit the Japanese architectural style. New weapons authentic to the period, including katanas, shurikens, and specialized assassination tools, will provide fresh combat experiences for series veterans.
