Assassin’s Creed Shadows Review – A Breath of Fresh Air

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In this review for Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, we delved into Ubisoft’s newest installment in their action-adventure series. Set in feudal Japan during the year 1579, Assassin’s Creed: Shadows presents an exciting opportunity to play as two distinct characters – Naoe, who follows the traditional assassin mold, and Yasuke, a unique samurai character that adds a fresh twist. Is it worth investing your time and resources in the world of AC Shadows? Let’s discover as we examine further!

Assassin’s Creed Shadows Review – What is Assassin’s Creed Shadows

In simple terms, “Assassin’s Creed Shadows” is an action-packed adventure video game produced by Ubisoft Quebec and distributed by Ubisoft. It serves as the fourteenth significant title in the series, following “Mirage,” which was released in 2023. The narrative of the game revolves around the ongoing struggle between the Assassin Brotherhood and the Templar Order.

In the Assassin’s Creed series, stealth is a key strategy for taking down objectives. The game offers a vast open-world brimming with activities, missions, hidden treasures, and more. Shadows carries over the fundamental aspects of the gameplay but introduces fresh elements to maintain interest. The main novelty in Shadows lies in the introduction of a non-assassin character named Yasuke, whom players can manipulate alongside Naoe throughout the narrative. Utilizing their abilities, players navigate maps, vanquish adversaries, accomplish side quests, and advance through the storyline.

The game is available for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Mac.

Gameplay – Assassin’s Creed Shadows Review

Fundamentally, Assassin’s Creed Shadows follows suit with other main installments within the series. It offers a vast open map with numerous regions for exploration, various side quests, and opportunities to acquire new equipment. However, unlike other games, you have the liberty to approach it in any sequence you prefer, not being bound by a strict narrative path. Let’s delve into the story details shortly.

Initially, when you embark on this game, you won’t assume the role of an assassin. Instead, you’ll play as Yasuke, a former slave who rose through the ranks to become a Samurai. Unlike other assassins who sneak and hide, Yasuke stands tall among his foes, using his immense strength to slash them down without needing to hide. However, after a short introduction, you’ll transition into controlling the game’s assassin-character, Naoe.

Naoe exhibits a playstyle reminiscent of classic Assassin’s Creed characters. She can scale walls, traverse obstacles, and leap to seemingly inaccessible locations. Moreover, she possesses an arsenal of tools that enable her to blend into the environment, evade detection, or vanquish foes from a distance. Seasoned series veterans should find her controls intuitive instantly.

For novice series participants, it won’t take long to adjust to her nimble movements. She moves swiftly and scaling structures is effortless with her grappling hook. I must add that the game’s environment facilitates this ease, as you can traverse houses, temples, and towers just as smoothly. However, for seasoned players, there are Hidden Trails scattered across the map. These mini-parkour challenges provide an extra level of difficulty, but they also offer a sense of accomplishment when successfully completed.

Naoe stands out due to its developers’ apparent focus on reverting to the game’s original foundations. She moves swiftly and gracefully, making traversal effortless and enjoyable. Moreover, the convenience of an early-acquired grappling hook significantly enhances the smoothness of exploration.

Similar to past Assassin’s Creed games, you too can hop onto a steed for quicker travel across the game world. While it’s not groundbreaking news, I can’t stress enough the convenience of an auto-travel feature, allowing your mount to do the work while you focus on exploring the vast map filled with activities. However, expect frequent pauses in your journey as there are plenty of things to discover and interact with along the way.

In Assassin’s Creed: Shadow’s map remains substantial, yet it’s not as expansive as those in Origins, Black Flag, or Valhalla. Despite its slightly smaller scale, it still holds a place among the larger maps within the series. We believe that the reduced size contributes to a more manageable exploration experience, with a focus on map quality over sheer quantity. In other words, Shadow’s map seems to have struck an ideal balance.

Enthusiastic gamers might dedicate numerous hours delving into the expansive landscape and scrutinizing every nook and cranny. On the other hand, less experienced players can savor the experience at their own pace before wrapping up the storyline. Navigating the map with Naoe’s swiftness and her trusty mount turns exploration into an engaging adventure.

Yasuke, conversely, is like a two-sided weapon. He’s incredibly skilled in combat, arguably the strongest hero this series has ever had. In contrast to Naoe, you rely on stealth to take down large groups of foes. However, Yasuke can simply burst into a room and brutally defeat anyone with sheer force.

Yasuke finds it liberating to play when you’re weary of concealing yourself. With such a vast world to traverse, there are times when one simply desires an uncomplicated approach. As Naoe, you might need to hide or alter your path to dodge adversaries. However, you must still evade long-range attacks. Yasuke alters the dynamics, enabling you to swiftly defeat groups of enemies.

Although he finds it challenging to navigate his character due to limited mobility, the extensive map with numerous buildings and vantage points makes exploring as Yasuke somewhat restrictive at times. Despite enjoying his combat abilities, I’ve grown accustomed to using Naoe by the time I switched characters. If given a choice, I would often prefer to be the assassin in various situations. I am willing to forgo some combat skills if it means having improved movement capabilities.

Additionally, I enjoyed playing as Yasuke, but I found that his combat wasn’t quite up to par with Ghost of Tsushima. This doesn’t necessarily imply that the swordplay is poor. However, compared to Jin Sakai, Yasuke seems more restrained in terms of his fighting style. His combat lacks the uniqueness and fluidity that makes Jin more engaging to play.

Despite what’s been discussed earlier, I find the concept of a non-assassin character quite appealing. This seems to be an attempt to offer something new for the fans.

  • A classic AC experience similar to older titles (Naoe)
  • Something new that we’ve seen from newer entries (Yasuke)

With Yasuke in the game, players gain greater flexibility to choose their approach for each scenario. Even if I feel this method isn’t flawless here, I don’t want to scrap the concept altogether. And I must admit, I found his narrative quite engaging and worth investing time to understand his playstyle.

No matter which character you opt for, you’ll find yourself with a vast world to traverse, brimming with quests and activities.

In this example, “Regardless” is replaced with “No matter”, and the phrase “you’ll have” is changed to “you’ll find yourself with”. The rest of the sentence remains the same to maintain clarity.

Similar to past Assassin’s Creed games, you’ll find yourself scaling ViewPoints and breaching restricted zones guarded by numerous adversaries. However, with Yasuke on your side, you’ll discover an alternative method for infiltration. In this expansive world, you’ll encounter a variety of characters offering their unique missions. Naturally, there will be multiple vendors to interact with as well.

As you progress through your journey, you’ll find it necessary to advance your skills to conquer some of Iga’s more challenging regions. To boost your expertise level, engage in various missions, side quests, battles against opponents, and other interactive activities.

One appealing aspect of Shadows lies in its Knowledge Point system. Scattered across the map are small orange dots that represent objectives. By completing these objectives, you accumulate a knowledge point. These points can be used to unlock various skills and they offer diverse ways to earn them – from gathering scrolls to visiting shrines or taking on more intricate challenges like Hidden Trails. The Knowledge Points provide an additional layer to the character progression.

I found this system appealing due to its increased emphasis on utilizing the map. Not only does it incentivize exploration, but it also avoids making you perform repetitive tasks to advance. In essence, I believe this feature has potential for recurrence in upcoming versions of the game.

One remarkable aspect that left me astounded was the Base Builder. From the onset in Shadows, you construct your initial settlement, a project that evolves and personalizes throughout gameplay. This settlement can house structures such as Forges and Stables, populate it with people and animals, create pathways and install lighting, ultimately leading to the creation of an entirely new town.

Initially, I found myself swamped. Gradually, however, I started piecing together bits and pieces until I had constructed a small yet sturdy town. Remarkably, the gaming community has produced some breathtaking creations, which are entirely optional – you can choose to ignore them if you prefer to concentrate on the narrative.

In Shadows, there are numerous other activities apart from the Kuji-Kiri, a unique feature that can be explored only by Naoe. These side missions offer additional insights into her character, which we’ll delve deeper into later. Meanwhile, you can hunt for Animus Anomalies, practice sword techniques with Yasuke, attend horse archery lessons, and engage in many other exciting activities. Among these, the ones I mentioned stood out as particularly unforgettable.

As a gamer, there’s no shortage of activities to keep me entertained – from the tiniest tasks like cuddling my furry friends (cats and dogs), to more complex challenges. So, I can confidently assure you that boredom is not something you’ll be dealing with here!

All in all, I found the gameplay in Assassin’s Creed Shadows quite enjoyable. The dual-character system was impressive, though it didn’t always function flawlessly. Also, having a multitude of activities within the map made me feel like I was genuinely progressing as I completed each region. However, I can’t help but wonder how the plot stacks up against the gameplay.

Story – Assassin’s Creed Shadows Review

In a twist of events, the plotline for Assassin’s Creed unfolds at the close of Japan’s Sengoku era, stirring curiosity about this historical period. With games like Ghost of Tsushima and its sequel, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, as well as Nioh, along with TV shows such as Shogun, there has been a surge of interest in feudal Japan. Given the popularity of these works, it’s no wonder Ubisoft chose to explore this setting as well.

And to my pleasant surprise, they nailed the setting and story.

Generally, I enjoy playing Assassin’s Creed games for their gameplay, yet it’s the storyline of Shadows that truly captivated me. Characters like Naoe and Yasuke each have unique tales, though these narratives weave seamlessly throughout the entire campaign.

Naoe’s journey is a timeless saga of retribution, filled with enjoyment as you advance and observe. While avoiding revealing crucial details about the narrative, it essentially involves tracking down specific objectives and neutralizing them. The main focus is on a young ninja’s mission to retrieve a valuable treasure chest and safeguard the Iga Clan. Even though the game has been available for some time, I want to keep spoilers to a minimum.

It’s due to the fact that delving into the Realm of Shadows is quite an extensive endeavor. Earlier, we pointed out that the map appears more compact, yet it remains expansive enough for an extended playthrough. Therefore, not all players have managed to reach the conclusion, even at this stage.

In the game Assassin’s Creed Shadows, the narrative seems to hark back to the core essence of the series, particularly when you control Naoe. She embodies the spirit of an Assassin more than any recent character, as the series has ventured into various directions with characters like Vikings and Sages in the past. Even earlier titles such as Black Flag offered alternative paths for the player that seemed to steer away from the franchise’s core. While I enjoyed Valhalla, Black Flag, and Odyssey, it felt as though the series was losing its unique identity a bit.

By including Yasuke in the game, Ubisoft expanded their appeal to fans who appreciate diverse protagonists. Transforming from a slave to a samurai, Yasuke presents a unique and distinct character that offers a fresh playstyle unlike the norm within the series.

In my discussion about Gameplay, I neglected to mention a feature that seemed fitting: the Quest System. This system provides you with a list of tasks to accomplish, categorized for easy navigation. What made it engaging was how each time I defeated a target, the screen would automatically update, offering a tangible sign of progress. I found satisfaction in finishing one set of quests while new ones emerged as the story unfolded.

Additionally, you’ll find numerous side quests and character interactions that serve as engaging fillers between main story missions. Among them, my preferred one revolves around a stray dog, which Naoe chooses to assist. However, there are countless other stories, including minor ones such as providing money to aid a man in fixing his wagon.

The assortment of quests is impressive, and what truly elevates it is the ability to craft your unique journey through dialogue options. If you prefer, there’s Canon Mode, where the decisions are made for you. However, on your initial playthrough, I suggest taking charge of your own decisions. It adds a touch of control that significantly enhances the storyline, which I found quite engaging.

The Animus Device has presented numerous tales, but Assassin’s Creed: Shadow’s Story resonates exceptionally well. I found myself deeply engrossed in the narrative, with Naoe and Yasuke’s journeys, as well as the events within Shadows’ world, capturing my interest far more than recent releases.

In essence, the captivating narrative of Shadows aligns perfectly with its engaging and satisfying gameplay. For those seeking an Assassin’s Creed title with a strong storyline, it is certainly worth exploring.

Graphics – Assassin’s Creed Shadows Review

In visual terms, Assassin’s Creed Shadows offers an awe-inspiring gaming experience. Navigating through its diverse regions is at once thrilling and calming when there are no attempts on your life. From the heights of the mountains to the depths of the valleys, and from small hamlets to sprawling metropolises, Ubisoft has crafted yet another stunning landscape.

One intriguing aspect of Shadows is its seasonal transitions. You can adjust it manually, or let it evolve naturally over time. A vast landscape like Shadows benefits from occasional changes in scenery. I also enjoy revisiting past locations just to witness how they transformed with the passage of time.

The scenic journeys were delightfully calmed by the wind’s influence. Regardless if I was on a horse, walking, or even crawling through hostile territories, I found myself feeling remarkably at ease as I moved about. However, that sense of tranquility is quickly shattered when you spot an approaching figure with a spear.

The wind’s influence created a soothing backdrop for my travels. Whether mounted on horseback, on foot, or even slithering through enemy lines, I found myself feeling quite calm as I wandered. But, of course, that serenity is swiftly disrupted when you notice someone charging at you with a spear.

In every installment of Assassin’s Creed, the graphics have consistently been one of its major highlights, and Shadows is no different – it beautifully leverages its environment to deliver an aesthetically satisfying gameplay experience. Ascending a viewpoint in this Japan-set game feels more gratifying than ever before as you explore.

I suggest using Performance Mode for smoother gameplay since the visuals are satisfactory enough to trade off quality for frame rate. However, if you possess a top-tier PC or simply adore high-definition graphics, consider Quality Mode instead. Regardless of your choice, I believe gamers will appreciate the game’s aesthetics once more this year.

In essence, Shadows delivers visually as well as it does gameplay-wise, suggesting that the team behind it is genuinely pleased with their latest creation, as evidenced by its impressive Photo Mode.

Audio / Music / Sound Design – Assassin’s Creed Shadows Review

Regarding audio quality, Assassin’s Creed excels in most areas… with a few exceptions. From serene horseback rides to intense battles, the sounds are generally of high quality.

While acknowledging other aspects, I must point out that the English voice acting could use some improvement. The performance by Naoe’s voice actor seems scripted and similar issues are noticeable in many other characters. However, it’s not to say that all characters sound poor; there are exceptions like Nagato and Nobunaga. Generally, the vocal performances seem subpar.

In games such as S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Call of Chernobyl, the English voice acting is both impressive and authentic to the language. In contrast, Assassin’s Creed: Shadows features accents that are accurate but lack emotion in delivery. The game provides an immersion mode where characters speak their native languages (Japanese or Portuguese). Although I appreciate this option, when there’s an English version available, I sometimes prefer not to read subtitles.

As for the rest of the aspects, the game appears promising. The music aligns perfectly with the scenario, particularly during battles. The game’s soundtrack contributes significantly to creating an immersive environment, and at times, it’s enjoyable to hear the sounds of nature or townsfolk chatter.

All in all, the sound design in Shadows is impressive overall, with a few exceptions in a key aspect. However, this issue eventually became less bothersome to me. Additionally, the presence of an Immersion Mode adds some diversity to the audio experience.

Review Verdict: Is Assassin’s Creed Shadows Worth Your Time & Money?

Assassin’s Creed: Shadow brings a refreshing vibe to the franchise, delivering an engaging gameplay experience that harks back to its original essence. Despite having a smaller map, it is packed with activities, and the narrative turns out to be quite captivating. It’s no surprise that this game attracted over three million players within its first week, demonstrating the robustness and longevity of the Assassin’s Creed series.

In a fresh yet familiar style, Shadows delivers on its core elements while introducing novel aspects. The gaming segments in Naoe’s design echo earlier titles, enhanced by the advancements and refinements we’ve grown accustomed to over time.

Contrarily, Yasuke offers a fresh experience for gamers to explore. Although I encountered some challenges in mastering his mechanics, I found him immensely engaging and intriguing. Furthermore, it’s clear that many players will revel in hacking through hordes of adversaries with this samurai character.

My main criticisms of the game were its restricted character movement and the English voice-overs, but these drawbacks were overshadowed by the enjoyment I derived from it. The base building, quest completion, and open world interactions in Shadows gave me a sense that there was always something new to explore.

However, in contrast to certain past titles, the game’s map scale caters more favorably towards new players due to its accessibility. Despite this, I invested numerous hours exploring the expansive, open landscape. Furthermore, I perceived the scale as just right for the content it contained. This balance between quality and quantity was indeed commendable.

If you’re a fan of the Assassin’s Creed Series, Shadows will seem familiar to you. For newcomers, Ubisoft has made several adjustments to ensure your experience is just as enjoyable. Shadows managed to reignite my passion for the series, and I’m eagerly anticipating the future adventures of our two main characters.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows Review Score: 9/10

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2025-05-02 22:41