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Assassin’s Creed Shadows Will Take 30–40 Hours to Complete the Main Story, With New Game+ Mode Possibly Coming Post-Launch
Dive into the world of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, where the main campaign promises a rich 30–40 hours of gameplay. Discover more about the game’s structure, including potential future updates like New Game+, and take an in-depth look at the new Hideout system.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Main Campaign Duration Confirmed
In a recent interview during the Assassin’s Creed Shadows Showcase Event in Kyoto, Creative Director Jonathan Dumont confirmed that players can expect around 30–40 hours of gameplay to complete the core story experience. For those looking to dive deeper, there will be over 80 hours of side content, offering substantial replayability and exploration.
The development team has also taken note of community feedback and is considering the addition of a New Game+ mode as part of post-launch support. This feature was notably absent in AC Valhalla, so its potential inclusion here has been welcomed by fans eager for extended playthroughs with retained progression.
Beyond the length of the game, Dumont highlighted several key features such as:
- A dynamic open world with evolving seasons and weather systems
- Fresh gameplay mechanics tailored to the Japanese setting
- An expanded and fully customizable Hideout system
- A new Animus storyline that could influence future Assassin’s Creed titles
These elements combine to deliver a deeply immersive narrative set against the historical backdrop of feudal Japan.
Bringing Feudal Japan to Life in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
For the developers behind AC Shadows, creating a game rooted in Japanese culture and history was both a challenge and a dream come true. Dumont shared how the team aimed to authentically represent Japan’s natural beauty and cultural depth, made possible through modern technology and storytelling techniques.
The game draws inspiration from classic Japanese cinema, including films like 13 Assassins, Sekigahara, Zatoichi, and works by legendary director Akira Kurosawa. However, the Assassin’s Creed creative lens adds a unique twist to these influences.
Dumont also acknowledged the ongoing discussions within the gaming community regarding certain character portrayals—particularly the inclusion of Yasuke, the historical Black samurai—and emphasized that the team listens to player concerns while striving to maintain narrative integrity and respect for Japanese heritage.
Despite the scrutiny, the focus remains on crafting a compelling and respectful representation of Japan for global audiences.
Inside the Hideout: Your Personal Base in Izumi Settsu
The Hidden Valley of Izumi Settsu
On March 5, 2025, Assassin’s Creed Shadows released a detailed breakdown of the game’s innovative Hideout system via their official site. Located deep within the secluded valley of Izumi Settsu, this base serves as the player’s central hub for building and expanding the Brotherhood.
As explained by Dany, the Systems Associate Director, "It’s pretty ambitious." He added, “After fortresses, villas, homesteads, pirate coves, café-theatres, moving trains, ships, settlements, assassin bureaus… we knew that if we wanted to make anything new on that front, we had to take a bold step forward.”
Players are given a large parcel of land to fully customize, allowing them to place structures, pathways, pavilions, and even local flora and fauna exactly how they want. According to Dany, the goal is to let players truly personalize their space: “We really want players to make the Hideout their own.” As you progress through the game, new customization options continue to unlock, reflecting your journey and choices.
Characters and Community Within the Hideout
The Hideout isn’t just a personal space—it’s also home to various characters who aid your mission. Each ally comes with their own backstory, skills, and challenges. Their placement and interactions within the Hideout depend on the layout you design, encouraging organic moments of dialogue and camaraderie.
Characters with combat backgrounds might naturally gravitate toward the Dojo, while others may prefer relaxing in the Zashiki (traditional Japanese room). These placements allow for spontaneous conversations and relationships to develop, giving the Hideout a sense of life and personality.
Dany further explained, “Having our allies in one place creates opportunities for character development.” The writing team, drawn from multiple studios worldwide, collaborated creatively to explore questions like: “What happens if two characters suddenly become roommates?” These thoughtful interactions help establish the Hideout as the emotional and narrative heart of the game.
With its expansive campaign, deep customization, and immersive setting, Assassin’s Creed Shadows aims to deliver one of the most engaging entries in the franchise yet—offering both longtime fans and newcomers a fresh, historically inspired adventure.
Release Date: March 20, 2025
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth coverage on Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
