Assassin’s Creed Shadows, the upcoming installment in the popular franchise, is slated for a February 2025 release. While building upon the open-world RPG formula established by Origins, Odyssey, and Valhalla, Shadows appears to be dialing back on the impactful narrative choices that defined Odyssey. This shift may disappoint some fans while appealing to others who prefer a more linear storyline.
According to creative director Jonathan Dumont, Shadows’ main narrative arc is comparable in size and length to its predecessors. However, player choices, while still present, will have less of a branching effect on the core narrative than in Odyssey. This information was shared by Dumont in a recent Reddit thread, addressing fan inquiries about the game’s narrative structure.
This adjustment in narrative design doesn’t necessarily constitute a downgrade for all players. Many enjoyed the streamlined experience offered by last year’s Assassin’s Creed Mirage, which returned to the series’ stealth-focused roots. Shadows seems to strike a balance between the open-world exploration of recent entries and a more focused narrative experience.
Dumont’s statement suggests that Shadows’ choices will contribute to the overall experience but won’t dramatically alter the main storyline as seen in Odyssey. This approach could provide a more cohesive narrative, appealing to players who prefer a curated story progression.
This shift in narrative design could attract players who felt overwhelmed by the branching narratives of previous entries, allowing them to focus on the central storyline without feeling pressured to explore every possible outcome. Conversely, fans who relished the narrative freedom and replayability offered by Odyssey’s choice-driven system might find Shadows’ approach less engaging.
The February 2025 release window places Assassin’s Creed Shadows in direct competition with several highly anticipated RPGs, including Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, Monster Hunter Wilds, Avowed, and Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii. It remains to be seen how Shadows will fare against this strong lineup and whether its refined narrative approach will resonate with players.
Ultimately, the impact of this design choice will depend on individual player preferences. While some might see it as a step back from the narrative complexity of Odyssey, others might welcome a more streamlined and focused storyline. Only time will tell how this decision will shape the overall reception of Assassin’s Creed Shadows upon its release.
