Assassin’s Creed Shadows offers a substantial main campaign estimated at 30-40 hours, with potential for a New Game+ mode in future updates. Discover more about the game's vision and an in-depth look at its unique Hideout.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Playthrough Duration Revealed
A 30-40 Hour Main Campaign Awaits
Prepare for an immersive journey! Assassin’s Creed Shadows (AC Shadows) boasts a main campaign clocking in at approximately 30-40 hours. Creative Director Jonathan Dumont, speaking at the Kyoto Showcase Event, confirmed this playtime estimate. He also revealed over 80 hours of additional content await players beyond the main story. Furthermore, the development team is actively exploring the addition of a highly requested New Game+ mode, along with other potential modes based on community feedback. This is particularly exciting given the absence of New Game+ in AC Valhalla, a point of disappointment for many fans.
Dumont highlighted key features, including a dynamic world with realistic seasons and weather, innovative gameplay mechanics, a significantly expanded and customizable Hideout, and a compelling Animus storyline that connects to future Assassin’s Creed games and projects.
A Japanese-Inspired Assassin's Creed
Dumont shared the team's passion for creating a Japan-centric Assassin's Creed game, a long-held dream finally realized. He explained that the game's setting demanded the ability to seamlessly integrate movement within the natural world, a feat now achievable with current technology, coupled with a captivating narrative.
Drawing inspiration from classic Japanese films like 13 Assassins, Sekigahara, Zatoichi, and Kurosawa’s works, the team has crafted a unique Assassin’s Creed experience. Dumont acknowledged the online discourse surrounding the game, particularly concerning the inclusion of Yasuke, and emphasized the team's commitment to addressing constructive criticism. The focus, he stated, remains on delivering an exceptional game that showcases their dedication to Japanese players.
Delving into the Hideout
The Secret Valley of Izumi Settsu
A March 5th, 2025 post on the official AC Shadows website provided an in-depth look at the Hideout. Nestled within the secluded valley of Izumi Settsu province, this serves as the player's operational base, allowing them to build and expand their Brotherhood.
Systems Associate Director Dany described the Hideout as "pretty ambitious," highlighting the significant leap forward from previous iterations. Players receive an entire acre of land to personalize, placing buildings, pavilions, pathways, and even local flora and fauna. Dany emphasized the desire to empower players to create a truly unique Hideout, noting that customization options progressively unlock throughout the adventure, reflecting the player's journey.
Forge Your Own League
The Hideout will house a diverse cast of characters, each with their own backstories and challenges. Character placement within the Hideout dynamically influences interactions, with characters finding their niche—fighters in the Dojo, others enjoying sake in the Zashiki. This design fosters unique dialogues between characters, creating a vibrant and immersive environment. Dany highlighted the collaborative writing process, involving writers from four different studios, who created engaging interactions based on scenarios such as characters becoming roommates. This approach brings the Hideout to life as the beating heart of the player's league.
With its impressive features and commitment to authenticity, Assassin’s Creed Shadows promises a captivating Japanese-inspired Assassin’s Creed experience.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows launches March 20, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Stay informed about the latest news and updates via [link to article].
