Assassin's Creed Shadows Takes 30-40 Hours to Beat the Main Campaign, with New Game+ Under Consideration

Assassin’s Creed Shadows offers a substantial main campaign estimated at 30-40 hours, with potential for New Game+ in future updates. Discover more about the game's vision and an in-depth look at the Hideout below.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Playthrough Duration Revealed

A 30-40 Hour Main Campaign Awaits

Prepare for an immersive journey! Creative Director Jonathan Dumont confirmed that Assassin’s Creed Shadows (AC Shadows) boasts a 30-40 hour main campaign, complemented by over 80 hours of additional side content. The team is actively exploring the addition of a New Game+ mode and other features based on player feedback, addressing a notable absence in AC Valhalla that disappointed many fans.

Dumont highlighted AC Shadows' key features: a dynamic world with realistic seasons and weather, innovative gameplay mechanics, a vastly expanded customizable hideout, and a new Animus storyline that connects to future AC titles.

A Japanese-Themed Assassin's Creed Dream Realized

The development team’s passion for creating a Japan-centric Assassin’s Creed game shines through. Dumont explained that the game's setting demanded the ability to depict the natural world's movement, a feat now achievable thanks to advancements in technology, coupled with a compelling narrative.

Drawing inspiration from classic Japanese films like 13 Assassins, Sekigahara, Zatoichi, and Kurosawa’s works, AC Shadows puts a unique Assassin’s Creed spin on the setting. The team acknowledges online discussions surrounding the game, particularly concerning Yasuke’s portrayal, and strives to address constructive criticism. Their focus remains on delivering a high-quality experience and showcasing their dedication to Japanese players.

Deep Dive into the Hideout: Your Customizable Brotherhood Sanctuary

The Secret Valley of Izumi Settsu

Revealed on March 5th, 2025, the official website showcased the Hideout's features. Nestled in the secluded valley of Izumi Settsu province, this serves as your base of operations, where you’ll build and strengthen your Brotherhood.

Systems Associate Director Dany described the Hideout's ambition: "After fortresses, villas, homesteads…we knew to create something new, we had to take a bold step. Giving players complete freedom to build their homebase."

Players receive an entire acre to personalize, placing buildings, pavilions, pathways, and more. Dany emphasized, "We want players to truly make the Hideout their own. Customization options unlock as you progress, reflecting your journey."

A League of Your Own

Populate your Hideout with diverse characters, each with unique backstories and challenges. Their placement influences their activities; for example, combat-oriented characters may frequent the Dojo, while others relax in the Zashiki.

This design fosters dynamic interactions and creates a truly lived-in feel for your Brotherhood. Dany highlighted the collaborative writing process: "Having allies together creates opportunities for character development. We gathered writers from four studios globally and created interactions based on questions like, ‘What if these two became roommates?’ The results make the Hideout feel like the heart of the league."

With its features and immersive setting, Assassin’s Creed Shadows promises an authentic Japanese experience within the Assassin’s Creed universe.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows launches March 20, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Stay tuned for updates!