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Assassin’s Creed Shadows is Bringing Back Double Assassinations— Here’s Why We are Excited
September 18, 2024It’s official—Assassin’s Creed Shadows is bringing back double assassinations, a fan-favorite feature missing for nearly a decade! Since its last appearance in Assassin’s Creed Syndicate in 2015, players have been eagerly waiting for the ability to eliminate two enemies simultaneously, and now Shinobi protagonist Naoe will wield this technique once again.
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What Exactly is the Double Assassination?
For those new to the Assassin’s Creed universe, the double assassination was introduced back in Assassin’s Creed 2, with protagonist Ezio Auditore da Firenze being one of the first to perfect this iconic move. The technique allows the Assassin to take down two enemies in one swift action, enhancing the overall stealth experience. The last time we saw this ability in action was with the twin protagonists, Jacob and Evie Frye, in Syndicate.
Ever since Syndicate, Assassin’s Creed games have drifted towards more RPG mechanics, with an emphasis on single-target assassinations. Titles like Origins, Odyssey, and Valhalla focused more on combat and exploration rather than pure stealth, leaving long-time fans yearning for a return to the franchise’s roots.
But with Shadows, Ubisoft seems to be catering to the desires of stealth-loving players. According to Ubisoft’s official blog, Naoe will utilize both her hidden blade and a tanto (a small blade) for double assassinations, blending classic stealth mechanics with a new Shinobi flair.
Why Did Double Assassinations Disappear?
A Reddit theory suggests that the reason double assassinations vanished after Syndicate might have something to do with the lore. The theory proposes that since Altair, the legendary Assassin from the first game, invented the technique, it wouldn’t have been available to earlier Assassins. Meanwhile, Assassins from Origins and Odyssey would have predated this skill.
However, it seems more likely that Ubisoft was simply experimenting with different combat styles during the RPG era of the franchise, making combat more skill-based rather than dependent on stealth mechanics.
But with Shadows returning to the classic stealth elements, Ubisoft is finally giving fans what they’ve been asking for—a callback to the Assassin’s Creed that so many grew up loving.
Naoe: The Stealth Master
The return of double assassinations fits perfectly with Naoe’s role as a Shinobi. The game, set in Japan, is expected to put a heavy emphasis on stealth tactics, with Naoe’s ability to hide underwater, see through fog, and take out enemies using kunai knives. These new abilities, combined with the return of double assassinations, paint a clear picture: Shadows will offer players a full stealth experience, much like the original titles in the franchise.
The decision to return to a more stealth-focused gameplay style is a welcome change, especially for longtime fans. It also means that players will have to approach each mission carefully, planning out assassinations and using the environment to their advantage.
What to Expect from Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Scheduled for release on November 15, Assassin’s Creed Shadows will be available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S. The game will feature an explorable open world set in Japan’s Honshu region, focusing on the story of Naoe and Yasuke, two Shinobi navigating a world full of danger, deception, and stealth.
What sets Shadows apart from its predecessors is its dedication to bringing back the core elements that made the early Assassin’s Creed games so beloved. Ubisoft’s decision to reinstate double assassinations indicates a broader focus on classic stealth mechanics, which had been pushed to the back burner in recent entries.
If you’ve been craving the old-school stealth and assassination experience, Shadows could be the perfect balance between the nostalgia of past games and the modern innovations of the newer titles. With Naoe’s skills, new stealth mechanics, and a focus on historical Japan, Shadows promises to deliver a unique Assassin’s Creed experience. So, fans of stealth gameplay, rejoice—your time has come!
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