Ubisoft's 'Assassin's Creed Shadows' Launches to 'Mostly Positive' Reviews on Steam

Ubisoft's latest installment in the Assassin's Creed series, "Assassin's Creed Shadows," launched on March 20, 2025, to a "mostly positive" reception on Steam, with 79% of user reviews expressing approval shortly after release. This entry, set in 16th-century Japan, introduces players to a richly detailed world, blending historical authenticity with engaging gameplay mechanics.

Setting and Protagonists

"Assassin's Creed Shadows" transports players to feudal Japan, a setting long anticipated by fans. The narrative centers around two protagonists: Yasuke, a former African slave who rises to become a samurai under warlord Oda Nobunaga, and Naoe, a young shinobi from the Iga province leading a peasant resistance. This dual-character approach offers varied gameplay experiences, with Yasuke's storyline emphasizing direct combat and Naoe's focusing on stealth and agility. 

Visuals and World-Building

Critics have lauded the game for its stunning visuals and meticulous attention to detail. The Guardian described it as "the most beautiful game I've ever seen," highlighting the dynamic environments that change with the seasons, enhancing immersion. The game's world is crafted with precision, from the architecture of rural villages to the intricate designs of samurai armor, reflecting Ubisoft's commitment to creating an authentic Japanese setting. 

Gameplay Mechanics

The combat system in "Shadows" has been refined to balance action and strategy. Players can engage in well-choreographed battles, utilizing a variety of weapons and skills. The stealth mechanics have also been enhanced, making stealth play more rewarding and integral to the overall experience. The free-running feature, a hallmark of the series, remains fluid and responsive, with the addition of a grappling hook to navigate vertical landscapes. 

Narrative and Immersive Features

The game's narrative intertwines the lives of Yasuke and Naoe, exploring themes of identity, loyalty, and resistance. An "immersive mode" offers period-appropriate Japanese and Portuguese voice acting, adding depth to character interactions and enriching the cultural authenticity of the experience. 

Critical Reception

On Metacritic, the PC version of "Assassin's Creed Shadows" holds a score of 78 out of 100, based on 45 critic reviews. The PlayStation 5 version scored 81 points from 78 reviews, while the Xbox Series X version achieved 85 points based on 20 reviews. IGN praised the game for sharpening and refining the series' mechanics without completely overhauling them. GameSpot noted that while the inclusion of dual protagonists added depth, the storyline occasionally lacked clarity. 

Sales Performance

"Assassin's Creed Shadows" has made a significant impact on sales charts. As of March 18, it ranked second on Steam's Global Top Sellers list, just behind "Counter-Strike 2," indicating strong commercial performance. 

Ubisoft's Position

The release of "Shadows" comes at a pivotal time for Ubisoft, which has faced declining revenues and a fluctuating stock price. The game's success is seen as crucial for the company's financial health and market position. Pre-orders for "Shadows" were reported to be tracking solidly, comparable to those of "Assassin's Creed Odyssey," the franchise's second most successful entry.

"Assassin's Creed Shadows" appears to rejuvenate the franchise with its compelling setting, refined gameplay, and visual excellence. The positive reception from both critics and players suggests a promising future for the series and a potential turnaround for Ubisoft. As players continue to explore the game's rich world, "Shadows" may set a new standard for future installments in the Assassin's Creed saga.

Sources:

• https://www.reuters.com/technology/ubisofts-assassins-creed-shadows-debuts-with-mostly-positive-rating-steam-2025-03-20/
• https://www.thesun.co.uk/tech/33912994/assassins-creed-shadows-review-stunning-ubisoft-game/?
• https://www.theguardian.com/games/2025/mar/19/pushing-buttons-assassins-creed-shadows-ubisoft?
• https://www.destructoid.com/assassins-creed-shadows-surges-on-steams-top-sellers-charts-overtaking-a-major-recent-hit/?