Assassin’s Creed Shadows, developed by Ubisoft Quebec and published by Ubisoft, marks the fourteenth major instalment in the series, succeeding Assassin’s Creed Mirage in 2023. Launched on March 20, 2025, it is available on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and macOS, with an iPadOS version planned later. Set in 16th-century Japan during the Sengoku period, it offers an open-world action RPG experience with two protagonists: Naoe, a stealth-focused shinobi, and Yasuke, a combat-oriented samurai inspired by the historical figure. The game emphasizes exploration, with dynamic weather and seasons, and allows players to approach missions with either character’s unique playstyle.
The Good
The community response has been mixed, with Steam showing 80% positive reviews, highlighting the game’s beautiful graphics, engaging open world, and dynamic combat system. Players enjoy the dual protagonist mechanic, appreciating Naoe’s agility for stealth and Yasuke’s strength for direct confrontations.
Not So Good
However, some players have voiced concerns over repetitive missions, level-gated areas, and optimization issues, particularly on PC, with complaints about “bloated” content and “terrible combat.”
Media Reception
Critics have been largely positive, with OpenCritic aggregating a score of 82/100, recommended by 82% of 143 critics, ranking in the top 14% of games.
IGN praised, “Assassin’s Creed Shadows makes the most of its theme, with a great pair of shinobi and samurai heroes… It’s not a perfect reset, as imbalances and missed opportunities abound, but I feel more confident than ever that Assassin’s Creed could be back and here to stay”.
PC Gamer noted, “Come for the neck stabs and stay for the surprisingly great combat, Assassin’s Creed Shadows is a stealth action buffet with a story to forget”.
GameSpot gave it 7/10, saying, “Ubisoft Quebec’s Assassin’s Creed Shadows messes with a good thing by including one too many playable protagonists, but Naoe is a valuable new addition to the legacy”.
Given the fresh release, community opinions may evolve, especially with potential patches addressing optimization. The game’s reception suggests Ubisoft has a hit on their hands, but addressing player concerns could solidify its legacy.
- Assassin’s Creed Shadows Impresses Critics but Faces Player Concerns
- Verdansk: The Story of Conflict and Catastrophe
- Pre-release sentiments: COD Warzone’s Verdansk return invites nostalgia with cautious optimism
- Call of Duty Black Ops 6: Exclusive Details and Beta Access
- India’s Online Skill Gaming Sector Crippled by New GST Law: EY-USISPF Report
- Ahead of the Launch, Xbox Podcast Explores an In-Depth Look with Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II Developers