Ubisoft Delays Assassin's Creed Shadows Over Tech Issues

The development of Assassin's Creed Shadows, set against the backdrop of feudal Japan, faced significant delays as Ubisoft waited for the right technological advancements to fully bring their vision to life. The concept of setting an Assassin's Creed game in Japan had been considered for years, but Ubisoft held off until they could ensure both the technical capabilities and the narrative met their high standards.

In a recent interview, creative director Jonathan Dumont emphasized that Ubisoft chose not to rush the project, focusing instead on achieving the perfect balance between advanced technology and compelling storytelling. This meticulous approach highlights the importance of Shadows to the company, particularly in light of recent challenges with games like Star Wars: Outlaws and Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora. Given these past difficulties, Ubisoft is keen to avoid another stumble, which has resulted in multiple delays for Shadows. These delays were, in part, to refine the parkour mechanics and ensure the game's overall polish.

Despite the long-awaited dream of an Assassin's Creed game set in Japan, the response to Shadows has been mixed. Some fans are concerned that it may feel too similar to previous titles such as Odyssey or Valhalla. Moreover, the introduction of dual protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, has raised questions about the impact of player choices on the narrative.

Ubisoft has reassured players that it's possible to experience the full game with either character, achieving 100% completion as both Naoe and Yasuke. However, there is still uncertainty about how distinct and deep their individual story arcs will be. As the release date draws near, Ubisoft must tackle these fan concerns while striving to offer a fresh and captivating addition to the iconic franchise.

Assassin's Creed Shadows stands as a crucial project for Ubisoft, with the goal of re-establishing trust in the series and showcasing the studio's dedication to innovation and excellence.