Assassin’s Creed Shadows has had its launch date move around a bit, and is now set for March 20th, but luckily for us we were allowed to play the latest build for over four hours.
Read on to see what we thought, and get some sneak peaks at actual gameplay.
Explore a vast and immersive world
Assassin’s Creed Shadows plunges you into an expansive open world that calls to you with diverse environments. From the bustling markets of city districts to the serene beauty of ancient temples, and the rugged expanse of mountain ranges, each location is a visual treat. Every corner of this vast world is meticulously crafted to provide a sense of wonder and awe as you navigate through its many challenges and surprises. Whether you’re climbing ancient ruins, exploring hidden caves, or traversing lush forests, the game’s world promises to be a captivating playground for adventurers.
Protagonists Yasuke and Naoe bring unique perspectives to this rich world. Yasuke, a formidable warrior with a mysterious past, and Naoe, a cunning shinobi with a flair for stealth, each offer distinct gameplay experiences. Yasuke’s strength and combat skills allow him to take on formidable foes head-on, while Naoe’s agility and expertise in infiltration enable her to navigate through the shadows unseen. Together, they offer a dynamic and varied approach to exploring the world of Shadows.
Engage in dynamic stealth and combat
The game’s dynamic stealth and combat mechanics build on the series’ signature elements, allowing players to blend into the shadows and strike from the darkness. Utilize a variety of tools and techniques to outsmart your enemies, from parkour-inspired movements to the strategic use of your environment. The fluid combat system ensures that every encounter is thrilling, whether you’re engaging in close-quarters combat or executing stealthy takedowns.
Yasuke and Naoe each bring their own strengths to the table in combat scenarios. Yasuke’s brute strength and mastery of various weapons make him a formidable opponent in open combat, while Naoe’s finesse and precision allow her to take down enemies silently and efficiently. Their contrasting styles provide players with the flexibility to approach situations in different ways, whether they prefer a more aggressive approach or a subtler, stealthier path.
Uncover the mysteries of Shadows
As a shinobi fighting for information, you’ll need to rely on your instincts and investigative skills to gather crucial intel in Shadows. With no hand-holding through icons and markers, every piece of information you find will feel like a hard-earned reward, driving you deeper into the game’s rich narrative. The thrill of uncovering secrets and piecing together clues is at the heart of the game’s exploration mechanics, ensuring that your journey is both challenging and rewarding.
Yasuke and Naoe’s quests are deeply intertwined with the game’s mysteries. Yasuke’s journey is driven by a desire to uncover the truth about his past, while Naoe’s mission is to protect her clan and gather intelligence that can tip the scales in their favor. Their personal stakes add depth to the narrative, making each discovery and revelation all the more impactful.
Personalize your journey
Customize your character’s abilities and gear to suit your playstyle in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Whether you prefer a more aggressive approach or a subtler, stealthier path, the game offers a wealth of options to tailor your experience. Upgrade your weapons, enhance your skills, and equip gear that complements your chosen playstyle, ensuring that your journey through the world of Shadows is uniquely yours.
Yasuke and Naoe’s unique abilities and equipment further enhance the customization options. Yasuke’s gear focuses on enhancing his combat prowess, with powerful weapons and armor that boost his strength and resilience. Naoe’s equipment, on the other hand, emphasizes stealth and agility, with tools and gadgets that aid in infiltration and reconnaissance. By customizing their loadouts, players can create a playstyle that suits their preferences and adapts to the challenges they face.
Innovative exploration mechanics
Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces a unique observe mechanic, allowing you to manually scan your surroundings from high vantage points. Tagging points of interest and planning your next move becomes an engaging and strategic part of the gameplay loop. This mechanic ensures that exploration is not just about moving from point A to point B, but about actively engaging with your environment and uncovering its secrets.
Yasuke and Naoe each utilize the observe mechanic in their own ways. Yasuke’s keen senses allow him to detect hidden enemies and potential threats, while Naoe’s sharp eyes can spot valuable items and hidden pathways. By working together, they can uncover a wealth of information that aids in their quests and enhances their understanding of the world around them. This innovative mechanic, combined with the protagonists’ unique skills, ensures that every moment of exploration is filled with discovery and excitement.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows officially launches on March 20th, and it can’t get here soon enough!