Info about Assassin’s Creed Shadows:

Official game description:
Reviews
=======
Comparison Grid
===============
Premium Edition
===============
The Assassin’s Creed Shadows Premium Edition includes:
\- The base game
\- Sekiryu Gear Set for both Naoe and Yasuke
\- Eye of the Dragon Katana
\- Claw of the Dragon Long Katana
\- Sekiryu Beast Mount
\- Dragon Tooth Trinket
\- The Claws of Awaji Expansion, which features a new region, a new weapon, new skills, and 10+ hours of content.
Deluxe Edition
==============
The Assassin’s Creed Shadows Digital Deluxe Edition includes:
\- The base game
\- The Sekiryu Dual Pack including gear and weapon sets for both Naoe and Yasuke, the Sekiryu Beast, and Dragon Tooth trinket
\- The Sekiryu Hideout Pack including four unique ornaments to customize the hideout for your shinobi league
\- Five mastery points
PC Specifications
=================
About the Game
==============
MASTER THE DEEPEST STEALTH MECHANISMS OF THE SERIES & FIGHT IN VISCERAL COMBAT
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
“Shadows is some of the most fun I’ve had with a stealth game in a decade” —PC Gamer
Play as Naoe, a quick-witted shinobi, and use light, sound, and shadows to evade detection. Infiltrate enemy strongholds with many parkour options including the new grappling hook, distract guards with shuriken or smoke bombs, and assassinate your targets with your Hidden Blade. As the samurai Yasuke, use silent bow takedowns or unleash devastating melee combos with your katana or naginata.
Switch between these two heroes to adapt your strategy and experience feudal Japan through two radically different approaches – stealth and strength, shadows and steel.
DEEP-DIVE INTO THE CAPTIVATING WORLD OF ASSASSIN'S CREED SHADOWS
----------------------------------------------------------------
“Assassin’s Creed Shadows creates one of the best versions of the open-world style.” —IGN
Step into feudal Japan like never before! From majestic castle towns to serene shrines and sweeping countryside, Assassin’s Creed Shadows offers a breathtaking open world where dynamic seasons, shifting weather, and environmental destruction affect your tactical approach.
And, to get full immersion, experience the game through Japanese voiceover.
DISCOVER THE MOST TECHNICALLY ADVANCED ASSASSIN’S CREED GAME YET
----------------------------------------------------------------
“It leads to one of the most dynamic, fun, and best-looking open-world games I’ve played this generation.” —Kotaku
Experience a true next-gen leap with Assassin’s Creed Shadows, powered by the updated Anvil engine. Explore a world brought to life with ray-traced Global Illumination, real-time reflections, virtualized geometry, and dynamic wind and environmental particles.
From the shimmer of lantern light on rain-slick rooftops to the rustle of cherry blossoms in the wind, every detail is crafted to immerse you deeper into feudal Japan.
A GLOBAL HIT
------------
Whether you are a veteran Assassin’s Creed player or new to the franchise, feudal Japan awaits you! Join a community of millions of players and discover a title GameSpot describes as "an absolute blast to play," Eurogamer.es as "the best Assassin's Creed of the modern era" and GamingTrend as “the new benchmark for the series.”

Release date: Mar 19, 2025

Categories: Stealth Gameplay, Open-World Exploration, Character Switching Mechanics, Parkour Gameplay, Historical Setting, Action Adventure, Combat, Narrative-driven Gameplay

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 85; verdict: Predatory Monetization; summary: The game has significant issues with its monetization practices, particularly with the true ending locked behind a paid DLC and the presence of microtransactions that offer gameplay advantages. These practices are seen as predatory and have a high impact on the user experience. Additionally, there are complaints about the game being overpriced and technical issues making it unplayable at times.
- Wiki: score 50; verdict: Needs Significant Improvement; summary: The analysis of user feedback reveals significant issues with game mechanics, narrative depth, technical performance, and instructional clarity. Users frequently express frustration with the need for external resources and guides to navigate and enjoy the game fully. Technical issues such as crashes and bugs also detract from the overall experience. While some users appreciate the atmospheric and exploratory elements, these positives are often overshadowed by the game's shortcomings.
- Proton/Linux: score 60; verdict: Tinkering Required; summary: The game has significant performance and stability issues on Linux, requiring extensive tweaks and troubleshooting. DRM and activation issues further complicate the experience, although some users report a positive experience with the game running well on Linux. Launcher and middleware issues also contribute to the overall friction.
- Steam Deck: score 75; verdict: Needs Improvement; summary: The analysis of user feedback reveals significant issues with Ubisoft Connect, including offline mode limitations, frequent crashes, and poor user experience. Performance issues, such as low FPS and the need for external frame rate limiters, are also prominent. Additionally, there are compatibility and launch issues, particularly on the Steam Deck, which affect the overall gaming experience.

- Hardware Profile:
  - Summary: Performance varies significantly across hardware cohorts, with higher-end systems generally reporting better experiences. Lower-end hardware often struggles with stability and frame rates, while mid-range setups show mixed results depending on specific configurations.
  - Sample size: 400 (2% coverage)
  - Audience skew: Review sample is heavily weighted toward Windows PCs with 10GB+ VRAM.
  - Windows 12-15GB VRAM / 16-31GB RAM (positive, 103 reports): Mostly stable performance with high frame rates at 1440p, though some users report needing frame generation for smoother gameplay.
  - Windows 8-11GB VRAM (mixed, 85 reports): Performance varies widely; some users report stable frame rates while others experience significant instability and crashes.
  - Windows <8GB VRAM / <16GB RAM (negative, 64 reports): Frequent crashes and instability reported, making the game often unplayable on this hardware.
  - Windows 16GB+ VRAM (positive, 55 reports): Generally good performance at 4K with high settings, though some users report crashes and UI issues.
  - Windows <8GB VRAM / 16-31GB RAM (mixed, 40 reports): Playable but with noticeable performance issues; some users report stable frame rates while others experience frequent drops and crashes.
  - Windows 12-15GB VRAM / 32GB+ RAM (mixed, 30 reports): Performance is mixed with some users reporting smooth gameplay while others experience significant issues.
  - Caveats: 400 of 19050 reviews expose hardware metadata.; Review sample is heavily weighted toward Windows PCs with 10GB+ VRAM.
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $20.00 - $40.00
  - Reasoning: The evidence consistently mentions that the game is worth purchasing when it is on sale or discounted. This suggests that the community considers the base price to be too high and that a discounted price would be more appropriate. The repeated mentions of waiting for a sale or discount indicate that the fair price range is significantly lower than the current base price.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 60.0h
  - Story completion: 40.0h
  - Session length: 2.0h
  - Endgame: 20.0h
  - Reasoning: The evidence provided includes multiple references to playtime. The first quote mentions the completion of the main campaign and exploration of endgame content, suggesting a significant investment of time. The second quote indicates a prolonged and somewhat arduous experience spanning two months. The third and fourth quotes provide specific hour counts, with one user stating they played for 60 hours and another for 130 hours, both of which are substantial playtimes that suggest a lengthy game completion time. These quotes collectively support the idea that completing the game and engaging with endgame content requires a considerable time commitment.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Players generally enjoy the first few hours of the game due to its fluid gameplay, addictive nature, and historical context, but the fun may drop after the initial excitement due to repetitiveness.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: Initial gameplay and exploration
  - Time to anchor: 2h 0m
  - Friction: Repetitive side quests; Lack of meaningful encounters; Long, boring dialogues; Predictable combat
  - Unlock drivers: Dual protagonists; Variety in gameplay styles; Customization options
  - Conditions: Beautiful graphics; Initial novelty of exploration; Engaging combat mechanics; Immersive historical context
- Player Archetypes:
  - Franchise Loyalist (buy)
    - Motivation: Loyalty to the Assassin's Creed franchise and enjoyment of its evolution.
    - Playstyle: Enjoys both original and RPG-style gameplay, appreciates the interconnectedness of the series.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: AC fan; franchise fan
    - Reference games: Assassin's Creed (2006); Assassin's Creed Origins; Assassin's Creed Odyssey; Assassin's Creed Valhalla
  - Newcomer Explorer (sale)
    - Motivation: Curiosity and exploration of a new game series.
    - Playstyle: Open to trying new gameplay styles, may need guidance and recommendations.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: new player; casual gamer
    - Reference games: Ghost of Tsushima
  - Playstyle Variety Seeker (buy)
    - Motivation: Enjoyment of diverse gameplay styles and character abilities.
    - Playstyle: Switches between stealth and combat playstyles, enjoys variety in gameplay.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: playstyle enthusiast; gameplay variety seeker
    - Reference games: Ghost of Tsushima
  - Relaxed Explorer (buy)
    - Motivation: Enjoyment of a relaxed and exploratory gameplay experience.
    - Playstyle: Prefers a slow pace, enjoys exploration and side missions.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: explorer; relaxed gamer
    - Reference games: The Witcher 3


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Good optimization and performance (weight 0.56): The game is praised for its good optimization, stable performance, and high-quality graphics. Players appreciate the smooth and well-optimized gameplay experience.
- Beautiful and immersive visuals (weight 0.48): The game's visuals are described as stunning, gorgeous, and immersive. Players appreciate the beautiful scenery, seasonal changes, and the overall atmospheric visual quality.
- Engaging and polished gameplay (weight 0.4): The gameplay is frequently described as enjoyable, fun, and well-polished. Players appreciate the combat system, mechanics, and overall engaging gameplay loop. The game offers a variety of gameplay styles and improved mechanics compared to its predecessors.
- Dual protagonist system (weight 0.3): The dual protagonist system is a standout feature, offering varied gameplay styles and distinct playstyles for each character. Players enjoy the unique abilities and gameplay dynamics between the two protagonists.
- Historical and cultural setting (weight 0.29): The game's historical setting in Japan is appreciated for its authenticity and rich details. Players enjoy the cultural context, historical events, and the immersive Japanese atmosphere.
- Compelling story and narrative (weight 0.22): The story is generally well-received, with players praising its engaging narrative, interesting characters, and well-written plot. The dual protagonist system also adds depth to the story.
- Large and immersive open world (weight 0.09): The game features a large open world map with varied activities and beautiful landscapes. Players enjoy the exploration and the immersive environment.
- Enjoyable additional content (weight 0.09): The game offers enjoyable cosmetics, mini-games, and a variety of weapons. Players also appreciate the refuge customization system and the attention to detailing in levels.

Common complaints:
- Unengaging and poor story (weight 0.3): The story is widely criticized for being uninteresting, boring, and lacking meaningful content. Many players find it forgettable and poorly executed.
- Repetitive side quests and missions (weight 0.25): Side quests and missions are often repetitive and lack variety, making the gameplay experience monotonous.
- Terrible voice acting and animations (weight 0.14): The voice acting is often described as bad, with actors sounding disinterested. Facial animations are also criticized for being poor.
- Yasuke is uninteresting and poorly designed (weight 0.14): The character Yasuke is criticized for being uninteresting and poorly designed, with lackluster gameplay mechanics.
- Open world is too large and empty (weight 0.13): The open world is criticized for being too large and empty, leading to a boring and repetitive experience.
- Stealth mechanics are flawed (weight 0.12): Stealth mechanics are poorly implemented and feel shallow, deviating from the franchise's tradition of perfect stealth.
- Microtransactions in single-player game (weight 0.09): Players are frustrated with the inclusion of microtransactions and battle pass-like features in a single-player game.
- Lacks innovation (weight 0.08): The game is seen as lacking innovation and bold new features, making it feel ordinary and unengaging.
- Minor bugs present (weight 0.07): There are minor bugs and glitches in the game, though they do not significantly hinder the overall experience.
- Clunky parkour system (weight 0.06): The parkour system is described as clunky and could be better, affecting the overall gameplay experience.
- Non-linear and disjointed narrative (weight 0.06): The story is criticized for being non-linear and disjointed, leading to a chaotic and scattered storyline.
- Cutscenes are too long and unskippable (weight 0.06): Cutscenes are often too long and cannot be skipped, which can be frustrating for players.
- Visibility and movement issues in dense areas (weight 0.06): Dense forests and mountains hinder visibility and movement, making navigation difficult.

Gameplay feedback:
- Open-world design (weight 0.47): The game includes a large open-world environment with various missions, quests, and interactive elements, following the formula of previous Assassin's Creed games.
- Dual protagonist system (weight 0.46): The game features a dual protagonist system with different combat and stealth mechanics, offering varied gameplay approaches with characters Naoe and Yasuke.
- Combat system variety (weight 0.43): The combat system is customizable with various weapons and combo mechanics, offering a dynamic and souls-like combat experience.
- Stealth and combat mechanics (weight 0.4): The game emphasizes stealth and combat mechanics, allowing players to approach missions with either stealth or brute force depending on their playstyle.
- Seasonal changes (weight 0.35): The game includes a seasonal system with weather changes that affect visibility and gameplay, adding a dynamic element to the environment.
- Layered storyline (weight 0.32): The game features a rich story with a layered narrative structure and detailed setting.
- Hideout and base-building (weight 0.32): The game includes hideout and base-building mechanics, allowing for customization and upgrades.
- Skill and ability system (weight 0.3): The game features a skill and ability system with a skill tree for character progression.
- Parkour mechanics (weight 0.12): The game features parkour and movement mechanics, though some reviews mention it as clunky while others describe it as smooth and fluid.
- Exploration and immersion (weight 0.08): The game features exploration mechanics, scouting, and a large map to explore, enhancing immersion and discovery.
- Positive gameplay feedback (weight 0.07): The gameplay is described as very good, with satisfying combat and assassinations, providing a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Performance notes:
- Mixed optimization feedback (weight 0.21): Players have mixed feelings about the game's optimization. Some report great optimization and performance, while others experience optimization issues and performance problems.
- Impressive graphics quality (weight 0.1): The game is praised for its stunning graphics and visual quality. Many players appreciate the top-notch detailing and visual refinement.
- High hardware requirements (weight 0.08): The game requires a high-end PC for optimal performance, especially for high-resolution gameplay. However, it can also run smoothly on low-end PCs.
- High performance on high-end hardware (weight 0.07): Players with high-end hardware report excellent performance, including stable framerates and high FPS, even with max ray tracing settings.
- Frequent crashes and freezing (weight 0.06): Some players experience frequent crashes and freezing during launch and exit, which disrupt the gaming experience.
- Long loading times (weight 0.06): Players have noted long loading screens and times, which can hinder the progress of the game.
- Ubisoft launcher issues (weight 0.05): Some players have reported issues with the Ubisoft launcher and online services, which affect game launch and performance.
- Animation quality concerns (weight 0.04): There are reports of clunky and annoying character animations that detract from the overall gaming experience.
- DLSS performance mixed (weight 0.03): Players report mixed experiences with DLSS, with some achieving high FPS while others encounter issues with DLSS not working.
- Mixed FPS reports at 1440p (weight 0.03): Players report varying FPS at 1440p resolution on Ultra settings, with some achieving high FPS while others struggle to get above 60 FPS.
- DirectX 12 errors (weight 0.03): There are reports of DirectX 12 errors that affect the game's performance and stability.

Recommendations:
- Worth buying on sale (weight 0.19): Many reviewers agree that the game is worth purchasing, especially when it is available at a discounted price. The consensus is that the game offers great value for money when bought on sale.
- Gameplay and setting recommendations (weight 0.11): The game is recommended for its enjoyable gameplay and beautiful setting. Reviewers highlight the immersive experience and visual quality as key reasons to play the game.
- Recommended for specific fan groups (weight 0.11): The game is highly recommended for fans of the Assassin's Creed series, samurai enthusiasts, and those interested in Japanese history. These groups are likely to appreciate the game's setting and content more than others.
- Mixed recommendations based on preferences (weight 0.1): Some reviewers recommend the game for its innovative and technically flawless evolution of the series, while others suggest waiting for a sale or recommend buying different games instead. The recommendations vary based on personal preferences and financial considerations.
- General positive recommendations (weight 0.09): Many reviewers provide general positive recommendations for the game, highlighting its overall quality and enjoyment. These recommendations often come with high praise and few reservations.
- Cautious recommendations due to current state (weight 0.08): Some reviewers caution against buying the game at full price or in its current state, citing issues such as subscription problems and performance issues, particularly for AMD users. They suggest waiting for improvements or better deals.
- Gameplay settings and preferences (weight 0.06): Reviewers suggest specific gameplay settings and preferences, such as enabling 'Guaranteed Assassination,' playing with the Japanese dub, and turning off dialogue options if not preferred. These tips aim to tailor the gaming experience to individual preferences.
- Recommendations for new players and RPG fans (weight 0.05): The game is recommended for new players and fans of RPGs. Reviewers suggest that these groups will find the game particularly enjoyable and engaging.
- Recommendations for specific gameplay experiences (weight 0.05): The game is recommended for those seeking depth in stealth and action gameplay, as well as for fans of Japanese history and the Assassin's Creed series. These recommendations focus on the specific gameplay experiences that the game offers.
- Technical recommendations for better performance (weight 0.04): Reviewers suggest using an SSD, particularly an NVMe SSD, for better performance. This technical advice aims to enhance the gaming experience by improving load times and overall performance.
- Recommendations to form personal opinions (weight 0.03): Reviewers encourage players to form their own opinions about the game, suggesting that personal experience may differ from general reviews. This advice aims to promote individual judgment and personal enjoyment.
- Recommendations based on specific content (weight 0.02): The game is recommended for those who enjoy the scenery and want to see the ending, as well as for fans of specific content within the game. These recommendations highlight particular aspects of the game that may appeal to certain players.
- Recommendations for shorter play sessions (weight 0.02): Some reviewers suggest that the game is best enjoyed in shorter sessions, indicating that it may be more enjoyable or manageable in smaller doses rather than long playthroughs.
- Comparison to other games (weight 0.02): Reviewers draw comparisons to other games, such as AC: Black Flag, suggesting similarities in taste or gameplay experience. These comparisons aim to provide context for potential players familiar with other titles.
- Future potential recognition (weight 0.02): Some reviewers believe that the game will be recognized as a gem over time, indicating that its value and quality may become more apparent or appreciated in the future.
- Benchmarking suggestion (weight 0.02): Reviewers suggest using the first 2 hours of gameplay to benchmark the game, providing a way for players to assess its performance and suitability on their systems.

Other player notes:
- DLC and transactions criticized (weight 0.04): Players have expressed dissatisfaction with the cost and value of DLC and in-game transactions.
- Ubisoft business practices mentioned (weight 0.03): Reviews include mentions of Ubisoft's business practices, such as the Ubisoft Plus subscription and shareholder status.
- Request for Ukrainian localization (weight 0.02): There is a specific request from players for the game to be localized in Ukrainian.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.28): Players are frustrated with a variety of technical and gameplay issues. These include poor optimization leading to performance problems, repetitive missions and side content, and clunky controls and mechanics, particularly related to parkour and combat. Additionally, the game's large and confusing map, along with a lack of meaningful story and content, contributes to the frustration.
- Disappointment (weight 0.19): Players express disappointment due to the game's lack of innovation and meaningful content. Issues such as a weak and repetitive story, poor character design, and excessive grinding requirements contribute to this sentiment. Additionally, technical problems like performance issues and bugs further detract from the overall experience.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.13): Players enjoy the game's beautiful graphics and immersive world setting. The engaging combat and stealth mechanics, along with a variety of missions and activities, contribute to a positive experience. The enjoyable storyline and character variety also enhance the overall gameplay experience.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.12): Players are satisfied with the game's beautiful graphics and well-optimized performance. The enjoyable combat system, detailed landscapes, and immersive story contribute to this satisfaction. Additionally, the variety in missions and the rewarding assassin gameplay mechanics are appreciated.
- Joy (weight 0.05): Players experience joy from the game's beautiful graphics and immersive setting. The engaging story, fun combat mechanics, and enjoyable exploration contribute to this positive emotion. The stunning landscapes and detailed Japanese atmosphere also enhance the overall enjoyment.
- Excitement (weight 0.05): Players are excited about the game's beautiful and detailed feudal Japan setting. The unique playstyles of different characters, intense combat moments, and the immersive open world contribute to this excitement. The dynamic combat and stealth mechanics also add to the thrill.
- Anger (weight 0.02): Players are angry due to the presence of microtransactions in a full-price game and various technical issues. Problems such as game crashes, poor optimization, and repetitive farming mechanics contribute to this anger. Additionally, the game's buggy state and Ubisoft's monetization practices further fuel this emotion.
- Appreciation (weight 0.02): Players appreciate the game's detailed mechanics and historical context. The dual character system, enjoyable weapons, and the game's setting and graphics are also appreciated. The stealth mechanics and the attempt to innovate within the franchise are noted positively.
- Boredom (weight 0.02): Players feel bored due to the monotonous and repetitive gameplay. The lack of engaging content and excessive dialogue contribute to this boredom. The uninspired side activities and the boring open world further enhance this feeling.
- Nostalgia (weight 0.02): Players feel nostalgic due to the game's connection to older titles in the Assassin's Creed series. The ninja gameplay and references to childhood memories of playing similar games evoke this sentiment. The Animus storyline and its significance in the series also contribute to this nostalgia.
- Admiration (weight 0.01): Players admire the game's stunning graphics and detailed landscapes. The attention to detail in the environmental design and the beautiful open world setting contribute to this admiration. The visuals and the amount of content provided in the game are also appreciated.
- Frustrated (weight 0.01): Players are frustrated with the game's level-gating and stealth mechanics. Poor performance on high-end hardware and frequent crashes contribute to this frustration. Skill acquisition issues and game launch problems further enhance this sentiment.
- Positive (weight 0.01): Players have a positive experience with the game's visuals and overall gameplay. The enjoyment of combat, world design, and story contribute to this positivity. The game's mechanics and visuals are also appreciated.
- Negative (weight 0.01): Players have a negative experience due to unbalanced gameplay and issues with certain characters. Frustration with cutscenes, voice acting, and game mechanics contribute to this negativity. The lack of side quests and map scouting issues further detract from the experience.
- Excited (weight 0.01): Players are excited about the game's combat system and character abilities. The beauty of the map and the story, gameplay, and setting contribute to this excitement. The gameplay mechanics and character progression are also noted positively.
- Disappointed (weight 0.01): Players are disappointed with the game's quality and representation issues. The dual protagonist design and sticky controls contribute to this disappointment. The lack of innovation and weak English voice acting further detract from the experience.
- Criticism (weight 0.01): Players criticize the game's inconsistent facial expressions and certain historical representations. The story's moral complexity and Ubisoft's handling of the story's historical accuracy are also criticized. These issues contribute to a critical view of the game.
- Mild disappointment (weight 0.01): Players feel mildly disappointed due to the core gameplay feeling familiar and not deeply innovative. The map size and story execution contribute to this sentiment. The familiar mission structure further enhances this mild disappointment.
- Interest (weight 0): Players are interested in the game's depiction of Japanese history and culture. The fascination with learning about Japanese history and the detailed implementation of locations contribute to this interest. The historical setting and flair enhance the overall experience.
- Awe (weight 0): Players are in awe of the game's visually stunning environments. The graphics are so impressive that they make players forget reality. The detailed and beautiful landscapes contribute to this sense of awe.}