Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Big Enough to Explore, Small Enough to Master

Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed Shadows is already creating buzz, especially regarding its map size and unique focus on Japan’s Honshu region. In an interview, Art Director Thierry Dansereau described Shadows as “bigger than Mirage but smaller than Valhalla,” giving players an open-world adventure that’s large enough to explore but not overwhelmingly vast.

Why Honshu, Japan?

Unlike Valhalla, which spanned Norway and England, Shadows hones in on a specific slice of Japan—Honshu, the main setting for the story involving the historical figure Oda Nobunaga. This decision to focus on a smaller, more intricate map has allowed Ubisoft to avoid the sprawling expanses seen in previous entries, making the world more intimate and packed with detailed environments.

Dansereau emphasized the importance of cultural respect and accuracy, stating that the Ubisoft team collaborated with Japanese consultants to ensure the game stays true to the culture. This partnership between the teams in Osaka and Tokyo ensured that every aspect of Shadows—from the architecture to the landscapes—remains faithful to Japan’s rich history. This attention to detail is not only appreciated by fans but is also a reflection of how the gaming industry is evolving to better represent diverse cultures.

It’s clear Ubisoft is focused on creating an authentic experience while still delivering on the elements that make Assassin’s Creed a beloved franchise. The use of historical figures like Oda Nobunaga, coupled with traditional Japanese architecture and landscape, ensures Shadows will be a visually stunning and culturally immersive game.

How Does Shadows Compare to Origins?

While fans might be used to the enormous maps of games like Valhalla, Shadows scales back to something more comparable to Assassin’s Creed Origins. The phrase “Origins big” suggests an open world large enough to allow deep exploration and side quests but not so vast that it becomes a daunting task to complete. This balanced approach seems aimed at players who prefer an immersive, story-driven experience without the grind of navigating massive territories.

What Sets Shadows Apart?

Unlike previous games in the franchise, Shadows takes a more focused approach in its gameplay, honing in on the stealth and RPG elements fans love while narrowing the scope to allow for a richer, more narrative-driven experience. Expect all the usual Assassin’s Creed stealth mechanics but with a more intimate story rooted in Japanese history.

The decision to zero in on Honshu not only shapes the environment but also enhances the storytelling. Ubisoft wanted to give players a world that feels alive, brimming with historical relevance. By focusing on a smaller geographic area, Ubisoft ensures players are deeply connected to the world and its characters, rather than simply traversing endless terrain.

Should You Be Hyped for Assassin’s Creed Shadows?

If you enjoyed the focused storytelling of Assassin’s Creed Origins but were overwhelmed by the size of Valhalla, Shadows might just strike the perfect balance. The game offers enough exploration to satisfy long-time fans of the franchise, while its smaller map and focus on Honshu create an experience that feels more intimate and story-driven.

For those craving a mix of action, stealth, and a fascinating historical backdrop, Assassin’s Creed Shadows looks to be a strong contender. The blend of focused gameplay, cultural respect, and a manageable open world should make this one of the most exciting titles to look forward to.

With Assassin’s Creed Shadows releasing soon, Ubisoft seems to have crafted a game that offers a sweet spot between sprawling exploration and tightly-knit storytelling. The focus on Honshu, Japan, and a more manageable world size promises an immersive experience rich in history, all while paying homage to the vibrant culture of Japan.

Mark your calendars for November 14, as Shadows is set to drop on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X|S.