Assassin’s Creed Shadows DLC Reveals “Claws of Awaji” Release Date – And Long-Awaited New Game+ Drops Next Week

Epic DLC drop alert: Ubisoft just announced the much-anticipated “Claws of Awaji” DLC for Assassin’s Creed Shadows, hitting all platforms next month. And for players itching for a replay, a fresh New Game+ mode is arriving even sooner, specifically next week. Whether you’re sword-slashing across feudal Japan or combing corners of Kyoto for hidden blades, there’s no shortage of reasons to return.

Mark your calendars. On 16th September 2025, Assassin’s Creed Shadows will expand its narrative with the new Claws of Awaji DLC. Ubisoft confirmed the date in a fresh update today, giving fans a reason to sharpen their hidden blades once more. Following the rumours and leaks that circulated on Reddit forums, this is now confirmed.

The DLC name alone evokes intrigue. Awaji Island, historically rich and strategically located, is expected to become a key region in the ongoing tale between shinobi Naoe and samurai Yasuke. While specifics remain tightly sealed (in classic Ubisoft fashion), the developer teased that political tension and personal vendettas will come to a head on the infamous island. Many fans speculate former allies could resurface, or be undone, in this new arc.

In keeping with the series tradition, Claws of Awaji could introduce fresh stealth tools, new enemy types, and perhaps hidden Tombs for history buffs. Expect weapon upgrades and narrative choices to deepen, presumably syncing with the era’s background of betrayal and internal conflict. Available as standalone DLC or for those who purchased the season pass, it will join the base game on PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Mac.

New Game Plus Mode Arrives 1st August

Even more exciting for many, and just around the corner, is the launch of New Game Plus on 29th July 2025. It’s the feature fans on every subreddit have demanded since week one. Players will finally be able to relive the main game with all unlocked gear and skills intact, adding that delicious overpowered replay spice everyone craves.

Ubisoft Quebec also confirmed players will face tougher enemy AI in NG+, revamped encounter placements, and optional modifier choices that alter the fabric of gameplay. For those who zipped through Shadows’ main campaign like a greased kunai, this could breathe in hours of fresh blood. Plus, what better way to test that maxed-out stealth build?

Interestingly, Shadows’ NG+ will feature exclusive cosmetics and rewards tied to optional challenges. That’s right, your stylish assassination kills will now be better dressed than ever. Coupled with Claws of Awaji launching two weeks later, August is shaping up as a feudal fever dream for Assassin’s Creed loyalists.

Anticipation’s been fever-pitched for Shadows’ DLC roadmap since its release earlier this year. Originally launched with minimal post-launch info, today’s update begins to answer a wave of questions. And to Ubisoft’s credit, the approach this time reflects the developer’s push toward delivering a healthier stream of content across its flagship IPs, a move partly driven by feedback from their recent service model overhauls.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows remains one of Ubisoft’s biggest narrative ventures since Origins. Powered by Anvil Pipeline 2.0, the visuals in its Shogunate-set world are stunning, with flooded rice fields, bustling Edo marketplaces, and misty mountain trails. And trust, they’re going to look even better when you return in NG+ with a new cloak and three bosses ready to parry you into oblivion. Your July and August plans? You’ve just had them rewritten in ink and steel.