Ubisoft Unleashes Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Reveals First Details and Release Date

Ubisoft took the wraps off its highly anticipated next entry in the Assassin’s Creed franchise today, officially revealing _Assassin’s Creed Shadows_—and it’s bringing the series to feudal Japan. Fans have long clamored for a Japan-set installment, and now it’s finally happening, with a confirmed release date of November 15, 2024, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.

Set during the turbulent Sengoku period, _Assassin’s Creed Shadows_ will focus on dual protagonists: Naoe, a shinobi from Iga, and Yasuke, a real historical figure and African samurai who served under Oda Nobunaga. Ubisoft promises a newly refined stealth system and an open world steeped in Japanese culture, lore, and political upheaval. According to creative director Jonathan Dumont, the dual leads will offer “radically different gameplay approaches,” with Naoe emphasizing agility, parkour, and stealth kills, while Yasuke delivers raw power and traditional samurai combat.

The game’s reveal trailer, packed with sweeping landscapes, hidden blade assassinations, and iconic Japanese castles, has drawn immediate buzz across social media and gaming forums. The developers have also confirmed dynamic weather systems and seasonal changes that will affect gameplay and NPC behavior—adding even more immersion to the open-world experience.

In line with recent Assassin’s Creed titles, _Shadows_ will feature a mix of RPG mechanics, including skill trees, dialogue choices, and customizable gear. However, Ubisoft notes that the team is aiming for a “more grounded and historically respectful tone,” drawing comparisons to fan favorites like _Assassin’s Creed Origins_ and _Assassin’s Creed Unity_.

Pre-orders for multiple editions—including the Deluxe and Collector’s Editions—are now live, with bonus missions, exclusive outfits, and a statue of the two protagonists up for grabs.

It’s clear Ubisoft is banking big on this long-awaited setting, and early signs suggest _Assassin’s Creed Shadows_ could be a return to form for the franchise. More gameplay is expected to debut during Ubisoft Forward this June, but for now, fans finally have a date and a vision for the ninja-assassin fantasy they’ve dreamt of for years.