Assassin's Creed Shadows Delayed: Ubisoft Cites Tech Issues

Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed Shadows, set in feudal Japan, faced significant delays before its release. This wasn't a simple matter of scheduling; the development team waited until technological advancements allowed them to fully realize their vision for a Japanese-set Assassin's Creed game. The concept had been explored for years, but the project only progressed when both the technology and the narrative met Ubisoft's high standards.

Creative director Jonathan Dumont explained that the decision to delay stemmed from a commitment to achieving the right balance of technology and storytelling. This cautious approach is understandable, especially considering the challenges faced with recent titles like Star Wars: Outlaws and Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora. Ubisoft couldn't risk another misstep, resulting in multiple delays for Shadows. These delays focused on refining the parkour mechanics and ensuring the game's overall polish met expectations.

Despite years of anticipation, the reception to Shadows has been mixed. Concerns exist that the game might feel too similar to previous entries like Odyssey or Valhalla. The dual protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, have also raised questions about the impact of player choices on the narrative.

Ubisoft assures players that the game can be completed 100% with either character. However, the depth and divergence of their individual storylines remain a point of discussion. As the release date nears, Ubisoft must address these fan concerns while delivering a fresh and engaging experience worthy of the Assassin's Creed franchise.

Assassin's Creed Shadows represents a crucial project for Ubisoft, one intended to reaffirm the series' quality and showcase the studio's dedication to innovation.