Summary
Ubisoft has revealed a first look at gameplay inAssassin’s Creed Shadowsduring the Xbox Games Showcase, giving players a chance to preview the series' upcoming trip to feudal Japan.Assassin’s Creed Shadowswas revealed back in May, although actual gameplay was lacking until now.
Assassin’s Creed Shadowspromises to be a return to the RPG formula that fans have become accustomed to from the series in entries such asOrigins,Odyssey, andValhalla. While 2023’sAssassin’s Creed Miragewas a return to the series' roots, it has now been almost four years since the last RPG in the franchise in the form ofAssassin’s Creed Valhalla. It seems the plan for Ubisoft is to alternate between the two types of games, to ensure that every gamer is getting what they want from theAssassin’s Creedseries going forward. It’s definitely a delicate balance, so it’ll be interesting to see how its handled in the future.

As part of the Xbox Games Showcase, Ubisoft unveiled its first look at the gameplay inAssassin’s Creed Shadows. The Japanese setting is beautifully rendered, and players got another look atAssassin’s Creed Shadows' dual protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke. The trailer does a great job of highlighting the differences between the two, with Noae sneaking around the world while Yasuke uses his brawn to break through some of the game’s destructible environments. This is reflected in the combat footage, too, where Noae is extremely agile while Yasuke’s fighting style looks heavy. It even confirmed that a further gameplay walkthrough is coming at Ubisoft Forward on June 10.
Ubisoft Reveals New Assassin’s Creed Shadows Gameplay
WhenAssassin’s Creed Shadowswas first revealed in May, it wasn’t clear how the RPG elements would be integrated into the game. The RPGAssassin’s Creedtitles have unique differences in how they approach this, but this gameplay reveal did little to explain how this is going to be done. Hopefully, it isn’t long before Ubisoft begins to talk a little more about the RPG side of the game.
Assassin’s Creed Shadowslooks set to be another slam-dunk success for Ubisoft. Gamers have been asking for the series to head to Japan for years, and this wish will finally be fulfilled by the studio. Pre-order numbers are supposedly strong so far from the game, withAssassin’s Creed Shadows' $280 edition being sold out already in some places. Considering how great the latest gameplay footage looks, gamers should definitely expect it to be a huge hit when it launches on July 16, 2025.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows
WHERE TO PLAY
Experience an epic historical action-adventure story set in feudal Japan! Become a lethal shinobi Assassin and a powerful legendary samurai as you explore a beautiful open world in a time of chaos. Switch seamlessly between two unlikely allies as you discover their common destiny. Master complementary playstyles, create your shinobi league, customize your hideout, and usher in a new era for Japan.