Assassin's Creed Shadows: Revamped Parkour and Dual Protagonists
Assassin's Creed Shadows, Ubisoft's highly anticipated feudal Japan adventure, is set to launch February 14th. This latest installment introduces significant changes, most notably a revamped parkour system and dual playable characters, each with unique gameplay styles.
The game features Naoe, a stealthy shinobi adept at scaling walls and shadow maneuvers, and Yasuke, a powerful samurai specializing in open combat but lacking climbing abilities. This design aims to appeal to both fans of classic stealth gameplay and those who prefer the RPG-style combat found in titles like Odyssey and Valhalla.
Ubisoft has detailed substantial parkour system overhauls. Gone is the unrestricted climbing of previous entries; Shadows introduces "parkour highways"—designated climbing routes. While this might initially seem restrictive, Ubisoft assures players that most surfaces remain climbable, requiring a strategic approach. These pathways are thoughtfully designed for optimal flow.
New Parkour Mechanics:
The blog post highlights improved ledge dismounts. Players can now seamlessly leap from ledges, performing stylish acrobatic maneuvers instead of the traditional ledge-grabbing descent. A new prone position adds diving capabilities during sprints, complementing existing sliding mechanics.
As Associate Game Director Simon Lemay-Comtois explains, the change to designated climbing routes allows for more controlled level design, dictating Naoe's movement while restricting Yasuke's. The grappling hook remains a valuable tool, but players must identify appropriate climbing points.
Assassin's Creed Shadows will be available on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC. With its February 14th release date approaching, further details are anticipated. The game faces stiff competition, launching alongside titles such as Monster Hunter Wilds, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, and Avowed.
