Assassin's Creed Shadows Takes 30-40 Hours to Beat the Main Campaign, with New Game+ Under Consideration

Assassin's Creed Shadows' main campaign is estimated to take players 30-40 hours to complete, with the possibility of a New Game+ mode in future updates. This and other details were revealed during a recent showcase event.

A 30-40 Hour Journey Through Japan

Creative Director Jonathan Dumont confirmed the 30-40 hour main campaign estimate, adding that over 80 hours of additional content awaits players. The team is actively exploring the addition of a New Game+ mode, a feature highly requested by fans following the absence of one in Assassin's Creed Valhalla. The game boasts a dynamic world with realistic weather and seasonal changes, new gameplay mechanics, and an extensively customizable hideout. The narrative also promises a new Animus story that will impact future Assassin's Creed installments.

A Dream Realized: Japan as the Setting

Dumont shared the team's ambition to create a Japan-centric Assassin's Creed game, citing the advancements in technology that now allow for the realistic portrayal of Japan's natural world, coupled with a compelling storyline. Inspiration was drawn from iconic Japanese films like 13 Assassins, Sekigahara, Zatoichi, and works by Akira Kurosawa, while maintaining a distinct Assassin's Creed identity. The team acknowledges the online discourse surrounding the game, particularly concerning Yasuke's portrayal, and is committed to addressing constructive criticism.

The Hideout: Your Customizable Fortress

A recent deep dive revealed details about the Hideout, located in the secluded Izumi Settsu province. Systems Associate Director Dany described it as an ambitious undertaking, offering players unprecedented freedom to customize their base of operations. An entire acre of land is available for personalization, allowing players to place buildings, paths, and even local flora and fauna. Customization options unlock progressively throughout the game, reflecting the player's journey.

The Hideout will house various characters with unique backstories and challenges. Character placement influences their interactions, creating dynamic dialogue and fostering a sense of community. The developers highlight the collaborative effort of writers from four different studios to craft these interactions, emphasizing the Hideout as the central hub for the Brotherhood.

Assassin's Creed Shadows releases March 20, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.