Assassin’s Creed Shadows has made waves in 2025, emerging as a top-selling video game of the year, only second to the immensely popular Monster Hunter Wilds. This title stands out in the series, taking players on an unforgettable journey to feudal Japan. Here, the narrative unfolds with a young shinobi named Naoe teaming up with a samurai, Yasuke, who hails from foreign lands. Together, they embark on a quest for revenge against those who wronged Naoe’s family. Despite facing numerous delays and controversies before its March 2025 launch, the game has garnered positive feedback from both fans and critics.
While it may not have reached the lofty review scores of some classic Assassin’s Creed titles, Shadows is still seen as a robust addition to the franchise. It’s praised for its stunning visuals and the unique playstyles of its main characters. This reception has driven impressive sales, with the game dominating the UK physical sales charts for two consecutive weeks after its release on March 20. It’s now considered one of Ubisoft’s most successful launches.
In the United States, its popularity is no less pronounced. According to Circana Retail Tracking Service, as reported by industry analyst Mat Piscatella, Shadows was the best-seller of the past week, cementing its position among the top-selling games of 2025, second only to Monster Hunter Wilds.
Even within the gaming industry, the game has received praise. Michael “Cromwelp” Douse, the publishing director for Baldur’s Gate 3, lauded its combat mechanics as some of the best seen in the franchise. Meanwhile, Hideki Kamiya, known for creating Okami and Bayonetta, appreciated the game and dismissed early criticisms as exaggerated.
Following its successful launch, the team at Ubisoft Quebec expressed gratitude to their fans and hinted at more content to come. Already, a DLC expansion titled Claws of Awaji has been announced, promising to take Naoe and Yasuke into uncharted territories for a 10-hour adventure packed with a mysterious and eerie atmosphere. As players continue to delve into the core game, Assassin’s Creed Shadows is cementing its place as not only a critical success but also a commercial powerhouse of the year.
So, if you’re up for exploring the captivating landscapes of feudal Japan, you won’t want to miss immersing yourself in the intricate storylines of both Naoe, the stealthy shinobi, and Yasuke, the powerful samurai. As you master their contrasting abilities, you’ll face numerous challenges while navigating vivid open worlds and unpredictable environments. Whether building a network of allies or customizing your hideout, the game offers an engaging and dynamic experience. Released on March 20, 2025, Assassin’s Creed Shadows is rated Mature 17+ for its intense violence and adult themes.
