Assassin’s Creed Shadows offers a substantial main campaign experience, estimated at 30-40 hours of gameplay, with the possibility of a New Game+ mode in future updates. Discover more about the game's vision and an in-depth look at the Hideout.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Playthrough Duration Revealed
A 30-40 Hour Main Campaign Awaits
Prepare for an extensive adventure! Creative Director Jonathan Dumont revealed during the Kyoto Showcase Event that Assassin’s Creed Shadows (AC Shadows) boasts a main campaign clocking in at approximately 30-40 hours. Beyond the main 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 player feedback, addressing the absence of this feature in AC Valhalla.
Dumont highlighted key features, including a dynamic world with realistic seasons and weather, innovative gameplay mechanics, a vastly expanded and customizable Hideout, and a new Animus storyline that will connect to future Assassin’s Creed titles.
A Japanese-Inspired Assassin's Creed
The development team's passion for creating a Japan-centric Assassin’s Creed is evident. Dumont shared that the team's vision required the technological capability to depict Japan's natural world with fluidity and a compelling narrative to match. Drawing inspiration from iconic Japanese films like 13 Assassins, Sekigahara, Zatoichi, and Kurosawa classics, the team has infused these influences with a unique Assassin’s Creed perspective. The team acknowledges the online discussions surrounding the game and strives to address constructive criticism.
Despite controversy, the focus remains on delivering an exceptional game and showcasing their dedication to Japanese players.
Exploring the Hideout: A Deep Dive
The Secret Valley of Izumi Settsu
A March 5th, 2025, website post detailed the Hideout's features. Nestled within the secluded valley of Izumi Settsu province, it serves as the player's operational base for building their Brotherhood.
Systems Associate Director Dany described the Hideout's ambition: "After fortresses, villas, homesteads, pirate coves, café-theatres, moving trains, ships, settlements, assassin bureaus… We knew that if we wanted to make anything new on that front, we had to take a bold step forward. That meant giving players the option to build their homebase with complete freedom."
Players receive an entire acre of land for complete customization, placing buildings, pavilions, pathways, and more. Dany emphasized the goal: "We really want players to make the Hideout their own. Throughout your adventure, most of the content for customization keeps unlocking as you progress, so your customization options will truly reflect your journey."
Building Your League
The Hideout houses various characters who aid the player, each with unique backstories and challenges. Character placement influences their activities within the Hideout, creating dynamic interactions. For example, combat-focused characters might frequent the Dojo, while others relax in the Zashiki.
This design fosters emergent dialogue and a sense of community, making the Hideout feel like a true home for your allies. Dany highlighted the collaborative effort: "Having our allies in one place creates opportunities for character development. We gathered the writers (from 4 different studios all over the world) in a meeting and had them create interactions inspired by questions like, 'What would happen if these two characters suddenly became roommates?' I really love all the cool little moments they came up with. It makes the Hideout feel like the beating heart of the league."
Assassin’s Creed Shadows promises an authentic Japanese experience within the Assassin’s Creed universe. The game launches March 20, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Stay informed with the latest news via [link to article].
