Assassin\'s Creed Shadows Details Parkour Changes

Assassin's Creed Shadows: Revamped Parkour and Dual Protagonists

Assassin's Creed Shadows, launching February 14th, introduces significant changes, particularly to its parkour system and character design. This latest installment takes the franchise to feudal Japan, featuring dual protagonists with contrasting playstyles.

A New Approach to Parkour:

Ubisoft has significantly altered the parkour mechanics. Gone is the free-climbing of previous titles; Shadows introduces designated "parkour highways" for traversal. While this may initially seem restrictive, Ubisoft assures players that most climbable surfaces remain accessible, requiring a more strategic approach. The addition of seamless ledge dismounts, allowing for stylish flips and dives, promises a smoother and more visually appealing parkour experience. A new prone position enhances movement options, enabling diving while sprinting, alongside sliding. The design choice, according to Associate Game Director Simon Lemay-Comtois, allows for more controlled level design, differentiating the movement capabilities of the two protagonists.

Dual Protagonists: Stealth and Combat:

The game features Naoe, a stealthy shinobi adept at climbing and shadow maneuvers, and Yasuke, a powerful samurai excelling in open combat but with limited climbing abilities. This dual protagonist system aims to appeal to both fans of classic Assassin's Creed stealth gameplay and those who prefer the more RPG-focused combat of titles like Odyssey and Valhalla.

Release and Competition:

Assassin's Creed Shadows will be available on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC on February 14th. Its success will depend on its ability to stand out amongst a crowded release window, competing with titles such as Monster Hunter Wilds, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, and Avowed.