Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Last updated: 2025-03-20
- Stunning graphics and generally good optimization.
- Engaging story and well-developed characters.
- Fluid combat provides satisfying gameplay.
- Immersive feudal Japan open-world setting.
- Too many cutscenes and long loading times.
- Poor AI and repetitive gameplay elements.
- Reviews
(sample size) - 1231
- Helpful reviews
- 58%
- Unhelpful reviews
- 37%
- Protest reviews
- 5%
- 82%Helpful reviews with positive sentiment
- 18%Helpful reviews with negative sentiment
- Positive points
- 1558
- Negative points
- 735
- Gameplay points
- 121
- Perf. points
- 279
- Rec. points
- 388
- Misc points
- 78
| Point | Description | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Stunning graphics and optimization | The game boasts stunning, detailed graphics, a vibrant open world with dynamic seasons, and impressive optimization. Reviewers consistently praise the visuals, noting significant upgrades and smooth performance, even with ray tracing. The game's art style and attention to detail create an immersive and visually appealing experience. | 97% |
| Engaging story and characters | The game features an engaging and well-written story with interesting characters and a strong opening. Reviewers appreciate the emotional connection they feel with the characters and the immersive narrative that unfolds. The story's presentation, including cutscenes and dialogue, is also praised for its quality and ability to keep players hooked. | 56% |
| Fluid and satisfying combat | The combat system has been significantly improved, offering a fluid, dynamic, and satisfying experience. Reviewers note the distinct combat styles of the two playable characters, Naoe and Yasuke, and appreciate the impactful attacks, finishers, and overall feel of the combat. The improved combat is often cited as one of the best aspects of the game. | 46% |
| Enjoyable and fun gameplay | The game provides an overall enjoyable and fun gameplay experience. Reviewers appreciate the smooth performance, lack of bugs, and the distinct play styles offered by the two characters. The game's various elements, including combat, exploration, and abilities, contribute to a satisfying and engaging experience. | 43% |
| Immersive feudal Japan setting | The game's setting in feudal Japan is meticulously crafted, with attention to historical accuracy, immersive atmosphere, and high-quality music and dubbing. Many reviewers appreciate the Japanese voice acting and cultural details, drawing comparisons to classic samurai films and Ghost of Tsushima. The setting enhances the overall experience, making it feel authentic and engaging. | 32% |
| Improved and deeper stealth mechanics | The game features significantly improved stealth mechanics, offering players more options and depth compared to previous installments. Reviewers highlight the addition of new features like prone, light/shadow mechanics, and a grappling hook, making stealth gameplay more enjoyable and strategic. The enhanced AI also contributes to a more challenging and rewarding stealth experience. | 30% |
| Return to form for series | Many reviewers consider this game a return to form for the Assassin's Creed franchise, with some calling it the best installment in years. They appreciate the balance between classic and new elements, the improved systems, and the overall quality of the game compared to recent entries. The game feels like a refreshing change and a worthwhile addition to the series. | 25% |
| Improved and fluid parkour system | The parkour system has been refined and improved, offering smoother and more enjoyable traversal. Reviewers compare the parkour favorably to older titles like Unity and Syndicate, noting the return of classic moves and the reduced 'stickiness' of the environment. The fluid movement and diverse animations enhance the overall gameplay experience. | 15% |
| Compelling character: Naoe | Naoe is a compelling and likable character with a well-developed story. Reviewers appreciate her stealth-oriented gameplay, high mobility, and the freedom she offers in approaching missions. Her character embodies the essence of classic Assassin's Creed games, making her a standout protagonist. | 13% |
| Ubisoft delivers a quality game | Reviewers feel that Ubisoft has delivered a high-quality game that reminds them of why they love the company's titles. They appreciate the effort put into improving aspects of the game and creating a consistently enjoyable experience. This installment is seen as a positive step forward for Ubisoft and the Assassin's Creed franchise. | 8% |
| Relaxed and enjoyable experience | The game provides a relaxed and enjoyable experience with good hit feedback and a great atmosphere. Reviewers appreciate the smooth gameplay and the overall 'feel' of the game. It's described as a well-crafted and surprisingly enjoyable experience that exceeds initial expectations. | 7% |