Ubisoft's highly anticipated Assassin's Creed Shadows is slated for release on March 20, 2025, and the gaming world is buzzing with both praise and criticism as reviews flood in from major outlets. Set against the captivating backdrop of feudal Japan, this installment introduces players to dual protagonists Yasuke and Naoe, promoting diverse gameplay experiences.
As of March 18, 2025, Assassin's Creed Shadows holds an impressive Metacritic score of 82/100 based on 68 reviews for the PlayStation 5 version, while the Xbox Series X|S version shines even brighter with a score of 86/100. The PC version, meanwhile, has garnered a respectable 79/100 from 37 reviews. With these figures, it finds itself well-placed among other notable titles in the series, although it doesn't threaten the top-rated game of the year:
In its review, ComicBook awarded the game a score of 3.5 out of 5, stating, "Although Assassin’s Creed Shadows has some cumbersome flaws that can’t be overlooked, including ones that have been present in the series since its inception, it is a strong action-adventure game that I will likely keep investing in for weeks to come." The score reflects a consensus among critics that, while enjoyable, the game possesses elements from previous installments that might dissuade some fans.
Many reviews have praised Shadows for its engaging combat and stunning visuals, immersing players in a world that closely reflects the culture of Japan during the feudal era. The addition of a weather system and the different fighting styles of the protagonists—Yasuke, a samurai, and Naoe, a shinobi—enhance the gameplay experience, offering players a fresh perspective within the familiar Assassin's Creed framework. One highlight came from VG247, which characterized the game as "fun to play," suggesting it has the potential to resonate well with fans old and new alike.
However, not all feedback has been glowing. Critics have pointed out shortcomings such as lackluster storytelling and pacing issues, noting that the narrative often fails to capitalize on the rich backstory of its characters. Reviewers from GamesRadar+ emphasized that while the gameplay is strong, "the vague story... fails to make full use of either character." Players might find themselves craving a deeper narrative to complement the gameplay's excitement.
In discussing the broader reception, Assassin's Creed Shadows stands as a strong entry in a franchise that has garnered mixed responses over recent years. Historically, the series has seen its highest-rated titles a decade ago, including Assassin's Creed II (90/100) and Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag (88/100), both of which set benchmarks in gameplay and storytelling. While Shadows won't dethrone these classics, it surpasses titles like Assassin's Creed Origins (81/100) and Assassin's Creed Valhalla (80/100).
Ubisoft is clearly banking on the success of Shadows to rejuvenate its standing after a troubling period marked by declining sales and investor concern. The company's stock has reportedly dropped 77% over the past five years, indicating a pressing need for a successful release. Anticipation is also building for a free 10-hour expansion, titled The Claws of Iwoji, which is set to be released later in 2025, further enticing players to dive back into the game post-launch.
With the launch just around the corner, how are players reacting to the initial reviews? Many expressed cautious excitement, stating they are looking forward to experiencing the beauty of Japan alongside the dual-character dynamic. As Nathan Thee from the Game Review Forum noted, "The trailers and previews have rekindled my interest. It looks like there’s a lot to explore, and I’m intrigued by how the new protagonists will interact with the world."
As gamers prepare to immerse themselves in the lush landscapes and intricate narratives of Assassin's Creed Shadows, a sense of optimism prevails. With a visually stunning environment and engaging mechanics, Ubisoft may just recapture the magic its fanbase has longed for—a blend of action and stealth with a narrative that resonates. The excitement builds as players count down the days to the game's official launch—what will you be playing first when you step into the shoes of Yasuke or Naoe?
