Assassin's Creed Shadows Takes 30-40 Hours to Beat the Main Campaign, with New Game+ Under Consideration

Assassin's Creed Shadows: A 30-40 Hour Main Campaign Awaits

The upcoming Assassin's Creed Shadows promises a substantial main campaign experience, clocking in at approximately 30-40 hours of gameplay. This was revealed during a recent showcase event in Kyoto, where Creative Director Jonathan Dumont shared insights into the game's development.

Beyond the main storyline, players can anticipate over 80 hours of engaging side content. Furthermore, the development team is actively considering the implementation of a New Game+ mode, a feature highly requested by fans following the absence of such a mode in Assassin's Creed Valhalla. This decision reflects the team's commitment to incorporating player feedback.

Dumont highlighted several key features, including a dynamic world with realistic seasonal changes and weather effects, innovative gameplay mechanics, and a significantly expanded, customizable hideout. The game also boasts a new Animus narrative that will contribute to the overarching storyline of future Assassin's Creed titles.

A Japanese-Inspired Assassin's Creed

Dumont emphasized the team's ambition to craft a truly authentic Japanese experience. Drawing inspiration from classic Japanese cinema, including films by Kurosawa and others, the team has integrated these influences into the unique Assassin's Creed framework. The team is aware of the online discussions surrounding the game, particularly regarding the portrayal of Yasuke, and is committed to addressing constructive criticism. Their primary focus remains on delivering a high-quality game that honors Japanese culture and captivates players worldwide.

Exploring the Customizable Hideout: The Secret Valley of Izumi Settsu

A recent deep dive into the game's hideout revealed an ambitious undertaking. Located in the secluded valley of Izumi Settsu province, this base of operations offers players unprecedented freedom to personalize their headquarters. Players will have an entire acre of land to customize, placing buildings, pathways, and even local flora and fauna. The customization options will unlock progressively throughout the game, ensuring that the hideout evolves to reflect the player's journey.

The hideout will also house a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique backstories and interactions. The placement of buildings will influence how these characters interact and behave, fostering a dynamic and immersive environment. This design choice allows for emergent storytelling and a stronger sense of community within the player's Brotherhood.

Assassin's Creed Shadows is scheduled for release on March 20, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.