Assassin's Creed Shadows Launches to Strong Reviews and Cultural Adjustments

Ubisoft's latest entry, set in 16th-century Japan, receives praise for gameplay innovation while addressing cultural sensitivity concerns.

Assassin's Creed Shadows debuted on March 20, 2025, with 'mostly positive' reviews on Steam and a 4.79/5 rating on the PlayStation Store.
The game features two protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, offering distinct playstyles that balance stealth and combat elements.
Ubisoft released a launch-day patch to address cultural concerns, making shrine elements indestructible and altering NPC interactions.
The game introduces a revamped assassination system, requiring players to track targets using clues rather than guided objectives.
As a critical release for Ubisoft during financial struggles, Shadows is seen as a pivotal moment for the franchise's future.