Assassin's Creed Shadows Alters Parkour Gameplay

Assassin's Creed Shadows: A Revamped Parkour System and Dual Protagonists

Assassin's Creed Shadows, Ubisoft's highly anticipated foray into feudal Japan, is set to launch on February 14th. This new installment features significant changes, most notably a revamped parkour system and the introduction of dual protagonists with distinct playstyles.

The core gameplay mechanics have undergone a transformation. Instead of the free-climbing system of previous titles, Shadows introduces designated "parkour highways." While this might initially seem restrictive, Ubisoft assures players that most climbable surfaces remain accessible, though strategic approaches may be required. This focused design allows for more controlled level design and enhances the overall flow of movement.

Seamless ledge dismounts are another key improvement. Players can now smoothly dismount from ledges with stylish flips, eliminating the need for precise ledge grabbing. The addition of a prone position further enhances mobility, enabling diving during sprints alongside sliding. These enhancements promise a more fluid and visually appealing parkour experience.

The game introduces two playable characters: Naoe, a stealthy shinobi adept at climbing and shadow maneuvering, and Yasuke, a powerful samurai specializing in open combat who lacks climbing abilities. This dual protagonist approach caters to both stealth aficionados and fans of the more action-oriented RPG combat found in titles like Odyssey and Valhalla. The design of the parkour highways directly reflects this distinction, strategically guiding Naoe's movements while restricting Yasuke's.

Ubisoft's Associate Game Director, Simon Lemay-Comtois, highlighted these changes in a recent blog post, emphasizing the intentional design choices behind the parkour overhaul. He confirmed that the grappling hook will remain a valuable tool for navigating the environment.

Assassin's Creed Shadows will be available on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC. With its unique setting, revamped gameplay, and dual protagonists, it aims to make a significant impact in a crowded February release window, competing with titles such as Monster Hunter Wilds, Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii, and Avowed.