Assassin's Creed Shadows: A Revamped Parkour System and Dual Protagonists

Assassin's Creed Shadows, Ubisoft's highly anticipated feudal Japan-set installment, is set to launch February 14th, bringing significant changes to the franchise's iconic parkour mechanics and introducing a unique dual-protagonist system.

A Refined Parkour Experience:

The game's parkour system has undergone a significant overhaul. Instead of free-climbing any surface, players will navigate designated "parkour highways," strategically placed climbing routes. While this might initially seem restrictive, Ubisoft assures players that most climbable surfaces remain accessible, albeit requiring a more deliberate approach. This design choice allows for more controlled level design and enhances the overall flow of movement.

Seamless ledge dismounts are another key improvement. Players can now smoothly dismount from ledges with stylish flips, eliminating the need for precise ledge grabs. The addition of a prone position further enhances movement options, allowing for diving while sprinting, in addition to sliding. The grappling hook also plays a crucial role in accessing otherwise unreachable areas.

Dual Protagonists: Stealth and Combat

Shadows introduces two playable characters: Naoe, a stealthy shinobi adept at climbing and shadow maneuvering; and Yasuke, a powerful samurai specializing in open combat but unable to climb. This dual-protagonist system caters to both fans of classic Assassin's Creed stealth gameplay and those who prefer the more action-oriented RPG combat of titles like Odyssey and Valhalla. The design of the parkour highways directly reflects this, dictating where Naoe can easily traverse and where Yasuke must rely on alternative strategies.

A Competitive Launch Window:

With a February 14th release date, Assassin's Creed Shadows faces stiff competition from other high-profile titles like Monster Hunter Wilds, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, and Avowed. The coming weeks will undoubtedly reveal more about the game's features and gameplay leading up to its launch.