Feudal Japan has never looked better in a video game. And yes, I know Ghost of Tsushima exists.
But where Ghost feels like a beautifully stylised oil painting, Assassin’s Creed Shadows is something else entirely. The world doesn’t just feel alive — it draws you in, a land that demands to be explored.
There were moments during my time with Shadows — about 82 hours — where I genuinely had to pause and process what I was seeing; the line between reality and video game blurred.
From the moment I climbed my first temple to see the world from a new perspective, I was hooked. The setting alone was enough to sell me — but could it live up to that promise? Could it help turn develop Ubisoft’s fortunes around after a rocky few years?
Shadows doesn’t just use this period as a backdrop — it fully embraces it, immersing you in one of the most compelling and atmospheric Assassin’s Creed worlds to date.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows unfolds in 1579, during Japan’s Sengoku period, when the country teetered on the brink of unification under Lord Oda Nobunaga.
You’ll play as Naoe, a shinobi assassin from Iga, and Yasuke, the African samurai taken under Nobunaga’s wing. Their paths eventually cross as they discover their shared fate in the midst of chaos.
It all kicks off with a stolen box — one Naoe was sworn to protect. This sets her on a brutal, blood-soaked mission for revenge. Think Kill Bill, with high-profile targets to eliminate.
Kyoto and Osaka are breathtaking, and the influence of Portuguese traders and Jesuit missionaries adds new depth to the world. The main story is packed with twists and surprises, keeping you on your toes.
Some will be pleased to hear that the Animus takes a back seat. Sure, it’s present — you’ll find glitches and keys to collect — but the focus is on Naoe and Yasuke’s journey.
Their stories take centre stage, letting you experience a pivotal moment in Japan’s history.
Naoe kicks things off, embodying everything you’d expect from a stealthy shinobi. She’s resourceful and precise, and her progression is satisfying to watch.
Yasuke doesn’t truly enter the spotlight until act two. While I was eager to play as him much sooner, I eventually understood why we needed to wait. He’s an absolute tank who cuts through enemies like paper, and dropping him in too early would have made the opening hours too easy.
Switching between Naoe and Yasuke is seamless, with only a brief loading screen. Their banter is light hearted (and awkwardly charming), but the game also allows for meaningful moments — a quiet rest stop here, a shared glance there. While I would’ve loved to see more synergy in combat, both playstyles are self-contained.
Shadows keeps you busy. From sneaking into castles to assassinations to collecting flower seeds for a love interest, the sheer number of quests can feel overwhelming. The map itself is diverse, with some regions home to tougher enemies for those seeking a challenge. Even earlier areas get harder as you progress, keeping the tension intact.
The game also delivers memorable moments. One standout is the Sakai tea ceremony — a questline that blends culture and gameplay beautifully.
Like Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, your hideout is back — located near Osaka. At first, it’s overwhelming, but as the game progresses, it becomes essential. You gather allies, upgrade weapons, and personalise your base. And, of course, I filled mine with as many kittens as possible.
Combat is brutal and precise. Enemies are varied, from big boys with bats to spear-wielding monks. Higher difficulties offer a real test, with faster and sharper enemies. Naoe and Yasuke also have distinct skill trees — she thrives in stealth, while he brings raw power.
Weapons feel weighty and satisfying, from Naoe’s kusarigama to Yasuke’s kanabo. Assassination contracts ditch the guided approach for something more engagng, requiring you to track targets yourself with little clues along the way.
The enemy AI isn’t groundbreaking. In one instance, a ronin spotted me, and I dove into the grass right in front of him — somehow, he lost sight of me. A bit dumb, but entertaining nonetheless.
For every misstep, there’s a quirky or memorable moment. Whether it’s carrying a sleepy man up shrine steps or duelling a farmer with a watermelon helmet, Shadows blends heartfelt and epic moments effortlessly.
It’s a world that rewards curiosity at every turn, making it one of the most captivating Assassin’s Creed games yet.
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Assassin’s Creed Shadows is out now on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC and retails starting at $80.
9news.com.au was granted early access to Assassin’s Creed Shadows with thanks to Ubisoft ANZ.