Assassin's Creed Shadows: A Revamped Parkour System and Dual Protagonists

Assassin's Creed Shadows, Ubisoft's highly anticipated feudal Japan-set installment, introduces significant changes, most notably a revamped parkour system and dual playable characters. Initially slated for November 2024, the game's release is now set for February 14th.

The game features two protagonists with contrasting playstyles: Naoe, a stealthy shinobi adept at scaling walls and navigating shadows; and Yasuke, a powerful samurai excelling in open combat but unable to climb. This dual protagonist approach aims to satisfy both fans of classic stealth gameplay and those who prefer the RPG-style combat of recent entries like Odyssey and Valhalla.

Ubisoft's redesigned parkour system is a key departure from previous titles. Instead of freeform climbing, players will navigate designated "parkour highways," carefully designed routes for traversal. While this may initially seem restrictive, Ubisoft assures players that most surfaces remain climbable, requiring strategic approaches. The system incorporates seamless ledge dismounts, allowing for stylish flips and a smoother parkour experience. A new prone position also enables diving while sprinting, adding another layer to movement.

Associate Game Director Simon Lemay-Comtois explains the rationale behind the change: "We had to be more thoughtful about creating interesting parkour highways and afforded us more control about where Naoe can go, and where Yasuke can't...Rest assured that most of what you'll see in Assassin's Creed Shadows is still very much climbable - especially with the grappling hook - but players will have to look for valid entry points from time to time."

Assassin's Creed Shadows will launch on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC on February 14th. The game faces stiff competition that month, including Monster Hunter Wilds, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, and Avowed, making its success a compelling question.