Assassin’s Creed Shadows has officially claimed the crown as Europe’s best-selling new game of 2025, and honestly, it’s not that surprising. After years of waiting for an Assassin’s Creed game set in feudal Japan, Ubisoft finally delivered something that has both longtime fans and newcomers talking.
The game launched in March 2025 and immediately started climbing the charts, beating out heavy hitters like Split Fiction, Monster Hunter Wilds, and even Mario Kart World. But what exactly makes this samurai-ninja adventure so compelling? Let’s break down why gamers can’t stop playing.
The Japan Setting Everyone Wanted
For over a decade, Assassin’s Creed fans have been practically begging Ubisoft to take the franchise to Japan. Assassin’s Creed Shadows finally answers that call with a stunning recreation of 16th-century feudal Japan that feels both authentic and visually breathtaking.
The game captures everything from spectacular castle towns and bustling ports to peaceful shrines and war-ravaged landscapes. The attention to detail in recreating this historical period shows in every temple roof and cherry blossom tree. Players can experience different seasons and weather patterns that actually affect gameplay, making the world feel genuinely alive.
Two Protagonists, Two Completely Different Experiences
One of the biggest draws is the dual protagonist system featuring Naoe, a shinobi assassin, and Yasuke, a legendary samurai. This isn’t just a cosmetic choice – these characters offer fundamentally different gameplay experiences.
- Naoe focuses on stealth, agility, and traditional assassin gameplay with grappling hooks and parkour
- Yasuke brings raw power and precision combat, perfect for players who prefer direct confrontation
- Each character has independent skill trees, gear, and progression systems
- You can switch between them seamlessly depending on your mood or mission requirements
Critical Reception: Mixed but Passionate
The reviews paint an interesting picture. Assassin’s Creed Shadows has received scores ranging from 6/10 to 9/10 across major gaming outlets, which tells you this isn’t a universally perfect game, but it’s definitely hitting the right notes for many players.
| Publication | Score | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|---|
| Game Rant | 9/10 | Remarkable franchise comeback |
| IGN | 8/10 | Returns to stealth roots successfully |
| GameSpot | 8/10 | Naoe’s gameplay is series highlight |
| PC Gamer | 80/100 | Engaging combat, forgettable story |
| GRYOnline | 6/10 | Interesting concepts, lost potential |
The consensus seems to be that while the story might not blow you away, the gameplay mechanics and world design more than make up for it.
Smart Quality of Life Features
Ubisoft learned from past criticism and added some genuinely helpful features. The “Canon Mode” is particularly clever – it automatically makes story choices for players who don’t want branching dialogue options. This addresses a common complaint about recent AC games without alienating players who enjoy choice-driven narratives.
The game also includes extensive customization options for HUD, controls, and accessibility features. You can adjust everything from camera behavior to aim assist parameters, making it more inclusive for different play styles.
Base Building and Customization
The hideout system adds a surprisingly engaging layer to the experience. You’re not just exploring Japan – you’re building your own shinobi league headquarters. This includes:
- Recruiting allies with unique abilities
- Customizing your base layout and decorations
- Training your crew and crafting new gear
- Upgrading facilities like the forge for weapon transmog
While some reviewers noted it’s mostly optional content, many players are finding it addictive enough to spend hours perfecting their hideout.
Why It’s Dominating Sales Charts
Assassin’s Creed Shadows succeeds because it delivers on a promise the franchise made years ago while addressing many fan complaints. The stealth mechanics feel meaningful again, the setting is gorgeous and well-researched, and the dual protagonist system gives players genuine choice in how they approach challenges.
Sure, it’s not perfect. The story could be stronger, and some mechanics feel familiar. But when you’re scaling a Japanese castle at sunset or engaging in intense sword combat as Yasuke, those complaints fade into the background.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Assassin’s Creed Shadows worth buying in 2025?
Yes, especially if you’ve been waiting for an AC game set in Japan. The dual protagonist system and improved stealth mechanics make it feel fresh compared to recent entries.
Can you play as both characters throughout the game?
Absolutely. You can switch between Naoe and Yasuke seamlessly, and each has their own skill trees and equipment. Some missions are character-specific, but most content works with either protagonist.
How long is Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
Reviews mention around 40 hours for the main content, with significantly more if you engage with side activities and base building. The world size is comparable to AC Origins.
Does the game have romance options?
Yes, both Naoe and Yasuke can romance certain characters you meet during your adventure. These relationships develop through specific dialogue choices and quest lines.
Is the combat better than previous AC games?
Most reviews praise the combat as more tactical and engaging than recent entries. Yasuke offers powerful direct combat while Naoe focuses on stealth approaches, giving players meaningful variety.
Do you need to play previous Assassin’s Creed games to understand Shadows?
No, Shadows is designed to be accessible to newcomers. While it connects to the broader AC lore, the Japan setting and characters tell a largely standalone story.
What platforms is Assassin’s Creed Shadows available on?
The game is available on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and other major gaming platforms. Check your preferred platform’s store for specific availability.
The Bottom Line
Assassin’s Creed Shadows earning the top spot as 2025’s best-selling new game makes perfect sense. It combines a long-requested setting with refined gameplay mechanics and smart quality-of-life improvements. While it might not revolutionize the franchise, it successfully delivers on what fans have been asking for while attracting new players with its gorgeous Japanese setting and engaging dual protagonist system.
Whether you’re a stealth enthusiast who’ll love Naoe’s ninja gameplay or prefer Yasuke’s samurai combat style, there’s something here worth experiencing. The sales numbers don’t lie – gamers are clearly finding something special in feudal Japan.