Mostly Positive(79%)
visual presentation
dual protagonist system
stealth mechanics
world design
combat mechanics
storytelling
character dynamic
technical performance
narrative structure
combat mechanics
pacing issues
The reviews present a contrasting sentiment towards Assassin's Creed Shadows. The game's visual presentation set in feudal Japan is widely praised, with many players appreciating the attention to detail in its environments and atmosphere. The dual-character gameplay offers diverse gameplay mechanics, although this aspect has both enthusiasts and critics. Players were critical of the game's poor technical performance, reporting issues such as crashes and stuttering even on strong hardware. The narrative and storytelling appear to be a key area of contention, with some enjoying the rich backdrop while others lament the lack of depth. Overall, the beautiful world-building is somewhat overshadowed by technical flaws and narrative criticisms, making it a divisive addition to the franchise.
Positive Points
The game is visually stunning, depicting a beautifully realized open world set in feudal Japan. The attention to detail in environments and atmospheres is highly praised.The dual protagonist system is a highlight, offering players a choice between a stealth-focused character and a more combat-oriented one, providing diverse gameplay options.The game's stealth mechanics are considered among the best in the series, with smooth integration of new features like a grappling hook and advanced parkour.Some players found the story engaging and appreciated the emotional depth of certain characters, particularly the protagonist Naoe.Negative Points
Technical issues are rampant, including poor optimization, frequent crashes, and stuttering, even on high-end PCs.The story lacks depth and meaningful progression, with criticisms about insufficient narrative engagement and character development.Combat and movement mechanics are often described as clunky and frustrating, with frequent complaints about parkour controls and camera angles.Players expressed dissatisfaction with the game's pacing, citing repetitive quests and an overabundance of chores that diminish engagement.Mixed Points
Some players enjoyed the combat mechanics and the challenge presented, while others felt they were too cumbersome or unbalanced.The storytelling received mixed reviews; while some found it compelling, others criticized it for being uninspiring and lacking in coherence.The game world is large and visually pleasing, but its size contributed to mixed feelings about the value of exploration versus the lack of meaningful content.Common Themes
The game's visuals and depiction of Japan were frequently praised as major positive features.Technical performance issues, such as poor optimization and crashes, were common complaints among players.There is a recurring theme of dissatisfaction with the game's narrative structure and character development.The dual-character dynamic receives mixed feedback, with some appreciating the variety and others feeling it was unnecessary or poorly executed.Updated 1/19/2026, 12:01:46 AM UTC