Assassin’s Creed Shadows Review: An Expert Analysis

Assassin’s Creed Shadows Review

The Assassin’s Creed franchise has established itself as a prominent force in the gaming industry, captivating players with its unique blend of historical settings, intricate narratives, and open-world gameplay centred around the eternal conflict between Assassins and Templars.

The announcement of Assassin’s Creed Shadows generated considerable excitement, primarily due to its highly anticipated setting in feudal Japan and the innovative introduction of dual protagonists offering distinct gameplay experiences. This report aims to provide a comprehensive, expert-level analysis of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, drawing upon official information, critical reviews, player feedback, technical performance assessments, and comparisons to other notable titles based on data available as of March 2025.

II. Official Announcement and Key Features: Unpacking Ubisoft’s Vision

Information disseminated through Ubisoft’s official website provides a foundational understanding of Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ core elements. A central feature is the introduction of two playable protagonists: Naoe, a skilled shinobi assassin from the Iga Province, and Yasuke, a powerful African samurai who existed in historical records. Ubisoft emphasizes the complementary nature of their playstyles. Naoe excels in stealth, utilizing agility and employing traditional ninja tools such as kunai, shuriken, and smoke bombs to evade detection and eliminate targets silently.

In contrast, Yasuke is designed for direct and brutal combat, wielding various Japanese weaponry, including katanas, kanabo, bows, and naginata, with precision and power. Players can seamlessly switch between these characters, offering tactical flexibility in approaching various missions and challenges. Each protagonist’s distinct progression system encompasses unique stats, skills, and equipable gear, encouraging players to master both playstyles.

The game is set against the backdrop of feudal Japan during the late Sengoku period, a time of significant political upheaval and conflict. The open world promises diverse environments to explore, from the intricate architecture of castle towns and bustling port cities to the serene beauty of rural shrines and the imposing presence of fortified landscapes. Ubisoft also highlights the dynamic nature of the world, featuring unpredictable weather patterns, a complete cycle of changing seasons, and reactive environments that can influence gameplay, such as affecting visibility for stealth or creating new traversal opportunities. Beyond direct gameplay, gathering information is presented as a crucial mechanic. Players will explore and scout their surroundings to gain vital intel, building a network of spies who can act as their eyes and ears across different locations, helping to uncover new areas and track down targets.

Furthermore, players can recruit allies with specialized skills and abilities to assist in various missions. A new addition to the franchise is the ability to build and customize a hideout for the player’s growing shinobi league. This feature allows training recruits, crafting new gear, interacting with key characters, and personalizing the base’s layout, decorations, and accessories.

The narrative of Assassin’s Creed Shadows intertwines the personal stories of Naoe, who is driven by a quest for revenge, and Yasuke, who is grappling with the demons of his past. Their paths will converge as they discover a shared destiny amidst the turmoil of the late Sengoku period, aiming to usher in a new era for Japan. To further enhance the player’s understanding of the historical context, Ubisoft has included a “Cultural Discovery Codex.” This in-game feature provides detailed information about the history, art, and culture of the Azuchi-Momoyama period and the specific timeframe within the late Sengoku era in which the game is set.

The dual protagonist system marks a significant departure from recent Assassin’s Creed titles, suggesting a deliberate focus on offering distinct and contrasting gameplay experiences within a single game. This approach could cater to a broader audience with varying preferences for stealth or direct combat. Furthermore, the emphasis on the historical setting, coupled with the inclusion of the Cultural Discovery Codex, indicates an intention to provide entertainment and a degree of educational value, potentially addressing past criticisms regarding the franchise’s historical accuracy. Finally, the mention of dynamic weather and changing seasons hints at a more immersive and complex open world compared to previous iterations, adding layers of strategic depth to gameplay and exploration.

III. Critical Reception: A Deep Dive into Professional Reviews

The critical reception of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, as reflected on review aggregators like Metacritic and OpenCritic, indicates a generally positive sentiment. As of March 18, 2025, the Metacritic scores were 83 for PlayStation 5, 84 for Xbox Series X/S, and 77 for PC. OpenCritic reported an overall score of 78, with 81% of critics recommending the game.

Recurring praise points in critic reviews highlight several key aspects of the game. Many reviewers found the storyline gripping, and the characters, particularly the dual protagonists, were well-developed and engaging. The gameplay is frequently described as fun, with a satisfying sense of progression and reward for player actions. The visual presentation of feudal Japan received widespread acclaim for its stunning beauty, intricate detail, and immersive atmosphere, with some critics noting the impressive dynamic weather system.

A significant point of praise is the perceived improvement in stealth mechanics, bringing the gameplay closer to the series’ classic roots and offering more tactical options. The combat system, especially when playing as Yasuke, was often described as surprisingly significant, impactful, and weighty. Despite its expansive nature, the open world was generally considered well-designed and rewarding to explore, offering a sense of discovery. Some reviewers also specifically commended the game for its respectful and well-done tribute to Japanese culture. 

Conversely, recurring points of criticism emerged in several reviews. While many praised the story, a notable number of critics found it lacking in certain aspects, describing it as thin, forgettable, or unevenly paced. Some reviewers also felt that the game suffered from repetitive mission structures and a sense of open-world bloat, particularly in its later stages.

Although stealth was lauded, some critics still felt that the core action, platforming, and overall gameplay mechanics hadn’t evolved significantly enough from previous installments.  A perceived imbalance in the execution of the dual protagonist system was also noted, with some feeling that Naoe’s gameplay and narrative integration were more central or refined than Yasuke’s. Finally, a few reviews mentioned encountering occasional technical issues, such as visual glitches or gameplay bugs, that slightly detracted from the experience.

Table: Aggregated Critic Scores for Assassin’s Creed Shadows

IV. Player Feedback: Gauging Community Sentiment

Analysis of player reviews and discussions on platforms like Reddit and gaming forums reveals a community sentiment that broadly aligns with the critical reception, albeit with some additional nuances. Many players have expressed positive initial impressions, with some considering it a return to form for the franchise and one of the best entries in recent years.

The enhanced stealth gameplay, allowing for more intricate and strategic approaches, has been a significant point of praise among players, echoing the critics’ sentiments. The dual protagonist system, offering distinct playstyles through Naoe and Yasuke, is also widely appreciated, providing gameplay variety and catering to different player preferences. Similar to the critical response, players have lauded the stunning visual recreation of feudal Japan, praising its beauty and immersive qualities.

However, player feedback also reflects some of the criticisms raised by professional reviewers. Some players have voiced concerns about the strength of the narrative and the potential for the gameplay to become repetitive over time. Opinions on the combat system are somewhat divided, with some finding it impactful and enjoyable, while others feel it lacks the refinement of games like Ghost of Tsushima. Many PC players have reported experiencing performance issues and expressing concerns about the game’s optimization and high hardware requirements. Comparisons to previous Assassin’s Creed titles like Odyssey and Valhalla are frequent, with some players feeling that Shadows represents an improvement.

In contrast, others perceive similarities in the overall open-world structure and RPG elements. The game is also frequently compared to Ghost of Tsushima, with players debating which title offers a superior feudal Japan experience in combat, story, and world design. Finally, some players continue to express that the RPG elements within the Assassin’s Creed franchise still feel somewhat tacked on or lacking in depth.

Players’ generally positive initial reception, particularly regarding the improved stealth and immersive setting, suggests that Assassin’s Creed Shadows resonates with a significant portion of the fanbase. The recurring comparison to Ghost of Tsushima indicates that this is a key benchmark for players evaluating a game set in feudal Japan, highlighting Shadows’ strengths and weaknesses about this acclaimed title. However, the reported PC performance issues present a potential concern that could impact player satisfaction on that platform. The mixed opinions on combat and the narrative suggest that these are areas where the game might not universally satisfy all players.

V. Technical Performance Across Platforms: An In-Depth Analysis

An examination of Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ technical performance across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC reveals varying degrees of optimization and platform-specific characteristics.

On PlayStation 5, the game offers multiple graphics modes, including a Performance mode aiming for a smoother 60 fps and a Quality mode prioritizing visual fidelity at 30 fps. A balanced mode targeting 40 fps on 120Hz displays is also available. While generally stable, some frame rate dips have been reported, particularly in demanding scenes. The PlayStation 5 Pro showcases significant enhancements, especially in Performance mode, leveraging Ray Traced Global Illumination (RTGI) to deliver improved lighting and shadows while maintaining a consistent 60 fps, as highlighted by Digital Foundry’s analysis. Minor visual anomalies, such as water shimmering or texture pop-in, have been noted but appear infrequent. Interestingly, cutscenes and the hideout area on PS5 Pro are locked at 30 fps.

The Xbox Series X/S also features performance and quality graphics modes with performance targets similar to the PS5. The Xbox Series S, the less powerful console, tends to exhibit more noticeable frame rate drops, especially during intense action and operates at a lower resolution than the Series X. A slight difference between the premium consoles is a higher grass draw distance in Performance mode on the Series X. Some player feedback on Xbox platforms mentions combat feeling tedious against heavily armoured enemies. 

The PC version of Assassin’s Creed Shadows has garnered attention for its demanding hardware requirements, particularly for running at higher settings and resolutions. Even high-end GPUs like the RTX 5090 may struggle to consistently achieve 60 fps at native 4K with maximum settings. Upscaling technologies such as NVIDIA DLSS, AMD FSR, and Intel XeSS are crucial for maintaining playable frame rates in a broader range of hardware. Benchmarking data suggests that AMD GPUs tend to perform better than their NVIDIA counterparts in this title.

A unique aspect of the PC version is the “Hideout Only” ray tracing setting, with full ray tracing not being entirely disabled, potentially contributing to the high hardware demands. A point of contention among PC players is the 30 fps lock on real-time rendered cutscenes, which some consider unacceptable, especially those with high-refresh-rate monitors. Despite the demanding requirements, the PC port is generally praised for its visual quality, stability, and extensive customization options.

The enhanced visual experience offered by the PS5 Pro, particularly in its 60 fps mode with RTGI, could be a significant draw for players on that platform. Conversely, the high PC system requirements and the 30 fps lock on cutscenes might disappoint some PC gamers. The varying performance across different platforms and modes underscores the complexity of optimizing sizeable open-world games for diverse hardware. The observed performance difference between NVIDIA and AMD GPUs on PC suggests potential areas for driver or game-level optimization.

VI. Historical Accuracy: Examining the Portrayal of Feudal Japan

The historical accuracy of Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ portrayal of feudal Japan has been a subject of discussion and, at times, controversy. The game is set in the late Sengoku (16th century) and features accurate historical figures like Oda Nobunaga and Yasuke.

Concerns have been raised, particularly within Japan, regarding the game’s depiction of shrines and temples. A Japanese politician expressed fears that allowing players to attack and destroy these locations in the game could encourage similar behaviour in real life, a concern echoed by shrine officials. Prime Minister Ishiba responded by stating his opposition to such actions in real life but did not directly criticize the game. Ubisoft apologized for causing concern with some promotional materials and clarified that the game is intended as historical fiction, not a completely accurate historical representation. In response to these concerns, a day-one patch was implemented to make tables and shelving within shrines indestructible and to reduce non-essential depictions of bloodshed in sacred locations.

The historical figure of Yasuke has also been a point of discussion, with some questioning the extent of his role as a samurai due to a lack of definitive primary historical sources. Ubisoft has stated that they collaborated with historians and cultural consultants during the game’s development. It is important to remember that the Assassin’s Creed franchise has consistently blended historical settings and figures with fictional narratives and fantastical elements.

The controversy surrounding the depiction of shrines and temples highlights the sensitivity involved in portraying real-world cultural and religious sites in video games, emphasizing the need for developers to be mindful of cultural norms. While Ubisoft aims for visual authenticity, the narrative and character portrayals often prioritize storytelling over strict historical accuracy. The inclusion of Yasuke, an honest but somewhat debated historical figure, as a playable protagonist has sparked excitement and scrutiny, reflecting the complexities of representing diverse historical individuals in popular media.

VII. Gameplay Mechanics: Evolution and Comparison within the Assassin’s Creed Franchise

Comparing Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ gameplay mechanics with those of previous titles like Valhalla and Odyssey reveals both evolutionary steps and a return to some of the franchise’s core elements.

Stealth has seen a significant increase in emphasis in Shadows compared to the more combat-focused approaches of Valhalla and Odyssey. New stealth mechanics have been introduced, such as the ability to go prone and the dynamic use of light and shadows. The traditional Eagle Vision has been replaced with Naoe’s ability to see through walls and the “Observe” skill for both characters.

Parkour and traversal appear to be more nuanced. While Naoe is agile and utilizes a grappling hook, some player feedback suggests that the parkour might not be as fluid or central as in older titles. Yasuke’s traversal is intentionally more limited. 

The combat system features distinct styles for the two protagonists. Naoe’s combat is more agile, while Yasuke’s focuses on powerful, direct attacks. The fantastical elements in Odyssey and Valhalla have been removed, grounding the combat more historically. Players have drawn comparisons to the combat of games like Sekiro and Ghost of Tsushima, with varying opinions on Shadows’ implementation.

Other notable changes include a more customizable hideout system than Valhalla, a smaller and potentially denser open world, a streamlined skill tree, a lack of a season pass at launch, and a shorter main storyline. The loot system has also been refined, and player feedback suggests improved movement and controls.

The renewed emphasis on stealth in Assassin’s Creed Shadows aligns with the desires of long-time fans and distinguishes it from recent entries. The dual protagonist system offers diverse gameplay experiences within a single game. While some aspects show evolution, the core gameplay loop might retain familiar elements.

VIII. Comparative Analysis: Assassin’s Creed Shadows vs. Other AAA Open-World Titles

Assassin’s Creed Shadows invites comparison with other recent AAA open-world titles, notably Ghost of Tsushima and Elden Ring, both of which have garnered significant critical and commercial success.

Compared to Ghost of Tsushima, which also features feudal Japan as its setting, Assassin’s Creed Shadows offers a different blend of gameplay. While Ghost of Tsushima’s combat is widely praised for its fluidity and samurai feel, Shadows’ combat has received more mixed reactions. Shadows potentially offers a more profound stealth experience with its dedicated shinobi protagonist. Some players find Shadows’ world more populated, while Ghost of Tsushima is lauded for its artistic style. Opinions on the narrative strength vary between the two titles. Some consider shadows more technically impressive visually.

Table: Feature Comparison: Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Ghost of Tsushima, and Elden Ring

Assassin’s Creed Shadows appears to directly compete with Ghost of Tsushima for players interested in feudal Japan. It offers a different gameplay blend with a stronger emphasis on stealth. Compared to Elden Ring, Shadows targets a more narrative-driven and accessible experience.

IX. PC System Requirements and Post-Launch Content: Preparing for the Experience

The official PC system requirements for Assassin’s Creed Shadows indicate a visually demanding game. Minimum requirements include an Intel Core i7 8700k or AMD Ryzen 5 3600 CPU, 16 GB of RAM, and an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070 8GB, AMD Radeon RX 5700 8GB, or Intel Arc A580 8GB GPU, with an SSD and DirectX 12 required. Recommended specifications include an Intel Core i5 11600k or AMD Ryzen 5 5600x CPU, 16 GB of RAM, and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060Ti 8GB, AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT 12GB, or Intel Arc B580 12GB GPU. Higher settings and resolutions, especially with ray tracing, demand more powerful hardware, such as RTX 2070 and above for ray tracing. Players can assess their system’s performance by an in-game benchmark tool.

Regarding post-launch content, Ubisoft has announced the “Claws of Awaji” expansion, which will be released in 2025. This expansion will take Naoe and Yasuke to Awaji Island, including a new weapon for Naoe and over 10 hours of additional content. The expansion is included with pre-orders of the game. Pre-ordering also grants access to the “Thrown to the Dogs” bonus quest at launch. Ubisoft has not announced a traditional season pass, and future content beyond the “Claws of Awaji” expansion is uncertain but could be influenced by player feedback. A New Game+ mode will not be available at launch but might be added later.

The detailed PC system requirements confirm the game’s visual demands. The announcement of the “Claws of Awaji” expansion indicates post-launch support, while the absence of a traditional season pass suggests a potentially different content strategy than previous titles.

X. Conclusion: An Expert Assessment of Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Assassin’s Creed Shadows presents a compelling experience set in the highly anticipated world of feudal Japan, successfully blending familiar franchise elements with innovations. The dual protagonist system offers a fresh perspective on gameplay, allowing players to experience the world through the contrasting lenses of a stealthy shinobi and a powerful samurai. The refined stealth mechanics represent a welcome return to the series’ roots, and the visually stunning recreation of feudal Japan creates an immersive and engaging environment. The generally positive critical and player reception further underscores the game’s strengths.

However, the analysis also reveals specific weaknesses. Mixed opinions on the narrative and combat suggest that these aspects might not universally resonate with all players. The potential for repetitive gameplay, a common challenge in large open-world games, is also a concern. PC gamers should know the demanding system requirements to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Overall, Assassin’s Creed Shadows stands as a significant entry in the franchise, demonstrating a willingness to evolve while revisiting core gameplay elements that fans have long appreciated. It will likely appeal to many players, including those who favour stealth gameplay, enthusiasts of open-world RPGs with historical settings, and long-time fans and newcomers to the Assassin’s Creed series. PC gamers should carefully review the system requirements to optimize their experience. While it faces stiff competition in the open-world genre, particularly from titles like Ghost of Tsushima, Assassin’s Creed Shadows offers a unique blend of features and a captivating setting that positions it as a noteworthy release in 2025.