Assassin’s Creed Shadows boasts a substantial main campaign, estimated at 30-40 hours of gameplay, with the potential for New Game+ in future updates. Dive deeper into the game's vision and explore the detailed Hideout experience.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Playthrough Duration Revealed
A 30-40 Hour Main Campaign Awaits
Prepare for an immersive journey! Creative Director Jonathan Dumont revealed during the Kyoto Showcase Event that Assassin’s Creed Shadows (AC Shadows) offers a substantial 30-40 hour main campaign. Beyond the core story, players can expect over 80 hours of engaging side content. Furthermore, the team is actively considering a New Game+ mode and other additions based on community feedback, addressing a common request from fans disappointed by its absence in AC Valhalla.
Dumont highlighted AC Shadows’ key features: a dynamic world with realistic seasons and weather, innovative gameplay mechanics, a vastly expanded and customizable Hideout, and a new Animus storyline that will intertwine with future Assassin’s Creed titles.
A Japanese-Inspired Assassin’s Creed
The development team’s passion for creating a Japan-centric Assassin’s Creed game shines through. Dumont explained that the technological advancements and a compelling narrative finally allowed them to realize their vision of a game set in Japan, utilizing the country's natural beauty and dynamic movement.
Drawing inspiration from classic Japanese films like 13 Assassins, Sekigahara, Zatoichi, and Kurosawa's works, AC Shadows incorporates a unique Assassin’s Creed perspective. The team acknowledges the online discussions surrounding the game, particularly concerning Yasuke's portrayal, and strives to address constructive criticism. Their ultimate goal is to deliver an exceptional experience that resonates with players worldwide, especially those in Japan.
Unveiling the Hideout: A Deep Dive
The Secret Valley of Izumi Settsu
On March 5th, 2025, AC Shadows unveiled a detailed look at the Hideout's features and mechanics. Nestled in the secluded Izumi Settsu province, this base of operations serves as the Brotherhood's headquarters.
Systems Associate Director, Dany, described the Hideout's development as "pretty ambitious." Following previous iterations (fortresses, villas, etc.), the team aimed for a bold step forward, granting players unprecedented freedom to design their personal homebase.
Players receive an entire acre of land to customize, placing buildings, pavilions, pathways, and even local flora and fauna. Dany emphasized the team's desire for players to truly make the Hideout their own, with customization options unlocking progressively throughout the adventure.
Forging Your Brotherhood
The Hideout houses various characters with unique backstories and challenges, inhabiting areas suited to their personalities (e.g., fighters in the Dojo, others enjoying sake in the Zashiki). This dynamic placement unlocks new dialogue and interactions, fostering a sense of community and growth among your allies. Dany highlighted the collaborative effort of writers from multiple studios, creating engaging moments that bring the Hideout to life as the beating heart of your Brotherhood.
With its immersive Japanese setting, compelling narrative, and expansive customization options, Assassin’s Creed Shadows promises a truly unforgettable Assassin’s Creed experience.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows launches March 20th, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Stay tuned for more updates!
