The Assassin’s Creed series stands as one of the most iconic franchises in gaming history, immersing players in rich historical settings while following the journey of elite assassins who fight for justice from the shadows. Over the years, the series has evolved, integrating deeper narratives and more expansive open-world experiences.
Ubisoft embraced this evolution with Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, introducing Viking warriors and a dynamic RPG system that reshaped the franchise. The game redefined the series and became its best-selling title, breaking records and setting new industry standards.
Now, Assassin’s Creed Shadows is poised to take the franchise to even greater heights. Set in feudal Japan, it promises an authentic cultural experience, meticulously detailed characters, gripping storylines, and intense ninja combat. With its innovative gameplay and immersive world, Shadows is on track to become the definitive gaming masterpiece of the year.
The Culture
The story begins with Naoe, a skilled warrior from Iga, whose once-peaceful life is shattered by the ambitions of a ruthless warlord. This iron-fisted ruler seeks to unite Japan under one sword, pursuing peace at any cost—even if it means sacrificing countless lives. His relentless conquest fuels a rebellion, as the oppressed dare to rise against his rule.
Amid this turmoil, Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces Yasuke, an African samurai whose historical legacy is woven into this rich and turbulent era. His presence adds a unique perspective to the story, compellingly contrasting Naoe’s journey of vengeance.
However, Ubisoft faced backlash for including Yasuke as a protagonist. Critics questioned whether his role fits within the historical authenticity of feudal Japan, and some gamers accused Ubisoft of prioritizing diversity over accuracy. The debate sparked discussions across the gaming community.
Yet, once you experience the game, Yasuke proves to be an indispensable part of the narrative. His character is so well-integrated that Assassin’s Creed Shadows would feel incomplete without him. Far from just being a historical addition, Yasuke brings depth, strength, and an emotional anchor to the story—balancing Naoe’s quest for revenge with his own unwavering sense of loyalty and honor.
Ubisoft’s bold decision to introduce Yasuke pays off, making the game richer and more immersive. With Naoe’s relentless pursuit of vengeance and Yasuke’s steadfast companionship, Assassin’s Creed Shadows delivers a deeply engaging experience. From its detailed depiction of Japanese culture to its complex, well-developed characters, this game isn’t just about war—it’s about legacy, honor, and the human spirit. Whether you’re here for the thrilling combat, the historical intrigue, or the breathtaking world, this game promises an unforgettable journey.
The Combat
In every Assassin’s Creed game, the combat system is the X factor—the heart of the experience. Most of the time, players are engaged in facing enemies, battling bosses, and progressing their characters. However, Assassin’s Creed Shadows takes a slower, more deliberate approach.
During the first few hours, the game immerses you in Naoe’s world, focusing on her journey rather than rushing into combat. Instead of overwhelming you with numerous characters, the story carefully develops the important ones, giving them the depth they deserve. As you progress, the intensity of combat gradually increases, making every battle feel earned.
One notable change is the removal of Eagle Vision—a staple of the franchise. While this may initially frustrate long-time fans, it adds a new layer of challenge. Instead, players use a limited-range detection ability, which can be enhanced over time through skill upgrades. This forces players to strategize more carefully, making encounters even more engaging.
The game also introduces dual protagonists, allowing you to switch between characters before entering boss fights.
- Naoe embodies stealth and precision, moving like a true ninja—assassinating targets silently and efficiently.
- Yasuke, on the other hand, is a powerhouse, relying on sheer strength, delivering devastating sword strikes and brutal kicks in an instant.
The progression tree unlocks powerful abilities, making both characters even deadlier. While each boss fight follows a familiar structure, the combat mechanics stay true to Japanese martial arts. Weapons like katana, kunai, tetsubō, kusarigama, and naginata enhance close-range combat, while Yasuke is also proficient with a bow and rifle. Meanwhile, Naoe’s pure ninja playstyle makes the game significantly more challenging.
After spending 20+ hours in the game, I can confidently say it’s an incredibly immersive experience. You can’t just equip the strongest weapons and armor and expect to be unstoppable—the level system ensures that if you’re under-leveled, even a single attack from an enemy can be lethal. This makes progression a necessity, keeping the challenge alive throughout the game. Combined with breathtaking scenery, cultural depth, and authentic Japanese influences, Assassin’s Creed Shadows stands out as a unique entry in the series.
The Creed
As Assassin’s Creed Shadows was announced long ago, the introduction of a Black Samurai, Yasuke, was initially met with skepticism. Many fans feared Ubisoft might disrupt the essence of the franchise by introducing a character they believed wouldn’t fit. However, looking at the broader Assassin’s Creed timeline—featuring the French Revolution, Italian Renaissance, Ancient Egypt, Norse Mythology, and Islamic history—it’s clear that Feudal Japan brings a fresh and compelling setting to the series along with Black Samurai. Shadows would be definitely incomplete without him.
Compared to Valhalla, which emphasized brutal Viking combat and Norse mythology, Shadows leans more into fast-paced ninja assassinations and grounded historical accuracy. This shift results in longer cutscenes and narrative-driven gameplay, which is a great addition for those who enjoy an immersive experience.
The story is deeply tied to Naoe’s path of revenge, which unfolds across 22 main missions, each culminating in a boss fight. These are further divided into sub-stories, extending gameplay and enriching the experience. While the game avoids feeling repetitive, players may feel overwhelmed by waves of enemies at times. When stealth fails, switching to Yasuke provides an alternative—breaking down doors and engaging enemies head-on for a more direct approach.
As players progress through Naoe and Yasuke’s intertwined stories, they’ll discover references to the Creed’s legacy, linking the protagonists to the Brotherhood’s history. What makes Shadows exceptional is its authentic portrayal of Japanese culture. Rather than straying into unnecessary complexity, the game remains true to its historical and cultural context, ensuring a clear, engaging, and enjoyable journey for players.
The Verdict:
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is a must-play experience in 2025, whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer. It offers a refreshing take on the franchise with its deep, immersive storyline and intricate mission design. Some moments, like the Tea Party mission, challenge traditional gameplay by requiring patience and intelligence rather than brute force— a bold move by Ubisoft that adds to the game’s uniqueness.
Even after defeating all the main bosses, the adventure doesn’t end. New storylines, hidden characters, and exclusive missions continue to unfold, keeping the experience fresh. The thrill of unlocking legendary weapons by raiding castles provides another layer of challenge and reward, ensuring players remain engaged.
With its detailed world, gripping narrative, and innovative gameplay mechanics, Assassin’s Creed Shadows stands as a remarkable addition to the series.
