Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Assassin's Creed Shadows delivers a visually stunning open-world experience set in feudal Japan, with impressive graphics and dynamic seasonal changes that impact gameplay. Players appreciate the smooth combat and refined stealth mechanics, especially the distinction between the stealth-focused Naoe and combat-centric Yasuke. The game introduces unique features such as separate skill trees for different weapons and immersive environmental interactions.

However, the game suffers from a weak and poorly executed storyline, with lifeless voice acting and underdeveloped characters that fail to engage players. The open world, while beautiful, feels empty and repetitive, with tedious fetch quests and repetitive assassination targets dominating the gameplay. Technical issues like game crashes, lack of quality-of-life features (e.g., bulk sell), and frustrating parkour limitations further detract from the experience. Many players express disappointment over microtransactions in a single-player game and feel the title does not justify its full price. Overall, the game is a mixed bag, praised for atmosphere and gameplay mechanics but criticized for narrative and design shortcomings.

Highlights

Players praise the game's exceptional graphics and breathtaking representation of feudal Japan, enhanced by a dynamic season system that affects stealth and NPC behavior.

The stealth mechanics are highly regarded, with visibility indicators and environmental factors adding depth. Combat is smooth and enjoyable, especially the contrast between Naoe's stealth approach and Yasuke's aggressive style.

Skill trees are well-designed, offering specialization for different weapons and playstyles. The game also features immersive moments such as temple respects and base decorations, enriching the atmosphere.

Criticisms

The storyline is widely considered weak and uninspired, with poor voice acting and bland character development leading many players to skip cutscenes.

The open world, though visually impressive, is described as empty and repetitive, with fetch quests and assassination targets becoming monotonous. Parkour and exploration are limited due to restrictive environmental design.

Technical issues persist, including game crashes, lack of bulk item management, and frustrating bugs. Microtransactions in a single-player game are unpopular, and many feel the game is overpriced for the content and quality offered.