Assassin’s Creed Shadows is the latest installment in Ubisoft’s legendary game series. Launched in *March 2025, the game transports gamers to *16th-century Japan*, in the Sengoku era, an era of war, samurai, and ninja legends. The game is released on *PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and iPadOS*, which makes it playable for both console and mobile gamers.
One of the largest draws of Assassin’s Creed Shadows is the selection of two central protagonists:
Naoe – an agile and deadly shinobi (ninja). She is an expert at stealth, agility, and silent assassinations. Equipped with her grappling hook, kunai, smoke bombs, and concealed blade, she can move past foes undetected.
Yasuke – a strong African samurai based on a real-life character. He attacks with force, employing swords, bows, and heavy arms. His playstyle is more linear, relying on powerful attacks, blocking, and parrying.
Players are able to alternate between these two heroes, and each possesses special skills, equipment, and development paths. This two-hero system offers you freedom to play as you choose—stealth or combat.
A Living, Open World
The open world of Assassin’s Creed Shadows is among the most realistic in the series. You can visit:
Tranquil :rural villages
Large: samurai castles
Busy :ports and markets
Gorgeous :shrines and temples
Seasons and weather change are also part of the game. Fields are green in spring; snow provides a hindrance in winter sneaking. Rain, fog, and night also influence the way the missions are played out, making the game more realistic and involving more strategy.
You can hire allies, send spies to gather information, and acquire resources. This introduces a strategic aspect, making you act like a real leader during an evolving Japan.
Play Your Way
The thing that makes Shadows unique is the gameplay freedom.
If you like stealth, you play as Naoe, scaling rooftops and utilizing ninja devices.
If you prefer direct combat, Yasuke is the ideal choice with heavy weapons and armor.
You may even combine both styles according to the mission.
This flexibility makes the game appealing to both new players and veteran Assassin’s Creed players.
Graphics and Technology
The game employs Ubisoft’s revised Anvil engine, which provides:
Stunning lighting effects
Breakable environments
Smooth animations
Seasonal changes on the map
On PC and consoles, the visuals appear ultra-realistic. On iPad (mobile), Ubisoft has also optimized the game so that players can still enjoy a smooth experience on a smaller screen. This cross-platform release makes Assassin’s Creed Shadows more convenient than ever.
Reviews and Success
When Assassin’s Creed Shadows was released in 2025, it was an instant hit:
More than 2 million players participated in the first week.
Ubisoft’s share price increased by 11% upon release.
The critics lauded the game’s dual heroes, stunning world, and refined gameplay.
Players enjoyed the balance between stealth and action as well, referring to Naoe as “the fastest assassin ever created” and Yasuke as one of the strongest fighters in the series.
Expansion: Claws of Awaji
Ubisoft continues to post updates and expansions for the game. The first substantial DLC, Claws of Awaji, came out in September 2025. It brings:
A new island area around Osaka
The introduction of a new enemy force, the Sanzoku Ippa
More than 10 hours of additional gameplay
New weapons, armor, and equipment (Naoe acquires the bō staff)
table of the game