Ubisoft Alters Assassin's Creed Shadows Gameplay, Removing Social Stealth

What's Happening?

Ubisoft has made significant changes to the Assassin's Creed franchise with its latest installment, Assassin's Creed Shadows. The game, set in Japan, has removed the traditional 'social stealth' feature, a staple of the series that allowed players to blend into crowds to evade capture. Instead, the game focuses on a 'tactical shinobi experience,' requiring players to use cover and agility to escape detection. This change was explained by Ubisoft developers during a Reddit AMA, where they assured fans that social stealth might return in future games. The game also features a samurai character, Yasuke, whose large size and armor make stealth impractical, further emphasizing the shift in gameplay dynamics.

Why It's Important?

The removal of social stealth marks a significant shift in the Assassin's Creed series, which has long been known for its stealth mechanics. This change could impact the franchise's fan base, as players accustomed to the traditional gameplay may find the new approach challenging or less appealing. However, it also opens up new possibilities for gameplay innovation, potentially attracting new players interested in the tactical aspects of the shinobi experience. The decision reflects Ubisoft's willingness to evolve its games and adapt to changing player preferences, which is crucial for maintaining relevance in the competitive gaming industry.

What's Next?

Ubisoft has hinted that social stealth could return in future Assassin's Creed games, suggesting that the franchise may continue to evolve and experiment with different gameplay mechanics. The next game, codenamed Assassin's Creed Hexe, is reportedly set in 16th century Europe and focuses on witchcraft, indicating further thematic and gameplay shifts. Fans can expect Ubisoft to continue engaging with the community for feedback, which may influence the direction of future installments.