Ubisoft’s recent reveal of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, the upcoming mainline game set in feudal Japan, has ignited excitement among fans of the series, particularly those who have longed for a return to the franchise’s roots. After several years of embracing a broader action-RPG format with titles like Origins, Odyssey, and Valhalla, Assassin’s Creed Shadows promises a blend of the traditional stealth mechanics with modern gameplay elements.
The division of gameplay between two distinct protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, appears to be a deliberate effort by Ubisoft to cater to both fans of the classic stealth-based Assassin’s Creed experience and those who favour the more recent action-oriented approach. Naoe, a shinobi armed with the iconic hidden blade, embodies the stealthy assassin archetype, while Yasuke, the historical Black samurai, offers a more direct combat experience.
A Dual Protagonist Approach
In an interview with IGN, Ubisoft detailed how players can choose between tackling missions as either Naoe or Yasuke. This duality aims to provide flexibility in gameplay style, allowing players to switch between a stealth-focused approach and a more action-heavy combat style depending on the mission and their personal preferences. Some missions will be character-specific, but the majority can be approached using either protagonist, potentially offering a rich and varied gameplay experience.
Renewed Focus on Stealth
Ubisoft’s previous assurances that new titles could still be played in the style of the older games often fell short in execution, with stealth elements taking a backseat to open combat. However, there are encouraging signs that Assassin’s Creed Shadows might truly honour its stealth heritage. Specific details from the IGN interview highlight several promising features:
- Dynamic Lighting and Shadows: Players will need to stick to shadows, with Naoe able to snuff out light sources to create dark areas. This harks back to classic stealth mechanics, emphasising the importance of staying hidden.
- Light Meter: The introduction of a light meter, reminiscent of the one used in Splinter Cell, will allow players to gauge their visibility, adding a layer of strategy to stealth gameplay.
- Prone Position: For the first time in the series, Naoe can go prone, allowing for new stealth tactics and a greater emphasis on remaining undetected.
- Grapple Hook: Expanding parkour abilities, a grapple hook will enable players to navigate the environment more fluidly, reminiscent of the mechanics seen in Metal Gear Solid.
- Seasonal and Weather Effects: Guard patterns will be influenced by weather and seasons. For example, guards will seek shelter from rain, opening up new paths for the player to exploit.
These details suggest a meaningful focus on stealth, potentially making it the centrepiece of the game. Ubisoft’s discussion about how changing seasons will affect guard patrols and sneaking options further underscores this commitment.
Combat and Historical Accuracy
While the emphasis on Naoe’s stealth capabilities is heartening, less has been said about Yasuke’s combat-focused gameplay. Yasuke, a historical figure, is designed to tackle enemies head-on, with the ability to parry and counterattack for quick kills. However, there is some scepticism regarding how engaging this combat will be, especially considering past titles’ reliance on button-mashy brawls, as seen in Valhalla and Odyssey.
The success of Yasuke’s combat mechanics will likely be judged against the high bar set by other recent games set in Japan, such as Ghost of Tsushima. This title has been praised for its fluid and engaging swordplay, and fans of Assassin’s Creed will be looking for a similarly satisfying experience in Shadows.
A Cautious Optimism
It’s worth noting that despite the promising features outlined, the true test will come with hands-on gameplay. The Assassin’s Creed series has a dedicated fanbase that cherishes the assassin fantasy, which can be easily disrupted by weak stealth kills, messy parkour, or unintelligent NPC behaviour. Ubisoft’s recent success with Assassin’s Creed Mirage, which prioritised stealth, provides some hope that Shadows will deliver on its promises.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is shaping up to be a potential return to form for Ubisoft, balancing the traditional stealth elements with modern gameplay innovations. By dividing the experience between two protagonists, Ubisoft seems to be catering to a broad audience, allowing players to engage with the game in their preferred style. The detailed focus on stealth mechanics, dynamic environments, and historical accuracy offers a promising glimpse into what could be a revitalised direction for the series.
As with any game, the real proof will be in the playing. Fans of the series, particularly those who have longed for a return to the roots of Assassin’s Creed, will be watching closely. If Ubisoft can deliver on its promises, Assassin’s Creed Shadows may well mark a significant and welcome shift in the franchise’s ongoing evolution.
