Assassin\'s Creed Shadows Details Parkour Changes

Assassin's Creed Shadows: Revamped Parkour and Dual Protagonists

Assassin's Creed Shadows, Ubisoft's highly anticipated feudal Japan adventure, is set to launch February 14th, bringing significant changes to the franchise's iconic parkour system and introducing a unique dual-protagonist approach.

The game's parkour mechanics have undergone a substantial overhaul. Instead of free-climbing any surface, players will navigate designated "parkour highways," strategically designed routes for traversal. While this might seem restrictive, Ubisoft assures players that most climbable surfaces remain accessible, though requiring a more considered approach. The addition of seamless ledge dismounts, allowing for stylish flips and dodges, promises a smoother, more fluid parkour experience. A new prone position also enhances movement options, enabling diving during sprints alongside sliding.

The game's narrative centers around two distinct characters: Naoe, a stealthy shinobi adept at scaling walls and navigating shadows; and Yasuke, a powerful samurai excelling in open combat but unable to climb. This dual-protagonist structure caters to both classic stealth fans and players who prefer the RPG-style combat seen in titles like Odyssey and Valhalla. Associate Game Director Simon Lemay-Comtois explains that this focused parkour design provides more control over character movement, dictating where Naoe can go and highlighting Yasuke's limitations.

The grappling hook further enhances traversal options, but players will need to identify appropriate climbing points. The revamped parkour system, coupled with the unique playstyles of Naoe and Yasuke, promises a fresh and engaging Assassin's Creed experience.

Assassin's Creed Shadows will launch on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC on February 14th, competing with other high-profile releases that month.