Ubisoft has officially set April 30, 2025, as the day they pull back the curtain on the post-launch roadmap for Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Following a triumphant March release and a surge of critical praise, the announcement—first teased via the game’s social channels—has ignited speculation and excitement across the Assassin’s Creed community. With Shadows already cementing itself as one of the year’s most successful titles, fans now turn their attention to what comes next for protagonists Naoe and Yasuke.
Shadows’ Dominant Debut
Before we dive into future plans, it’s worth underscoring just how impactful Shadows has been. It debuted as March’s best-selling title in the U.S. and is currently second only to Monster Hunter: Wilds in 2025’s overall sales rankings. This makes it the third-largest Assassin’s Creed launch ever, behind only Valhalla and AC III. A blend of intense combat, rich storytelling, and an evocative vision of Sengoku-era Japan has propelled it to instant classic status.
“Claws of Awaji” – The First Step Into the DLC Era
Ubisoft has already lifted the veil slightly with its first planned expansion: Claws of Awaji. Offered as a pre-order bonus, this 10-hour DLC is poised to build on the game’s foundation while introducing players to a fresh island region—Awaji—and a ruthless new faction: the Sanzoku Ippa.
Key features include:
- A post-main-story continuation featuring both Naoe and Yasuke.
- A new weapon class, the Bō (staff), adding verticality and reach to stealth and melee combat.
- A new environmental region with dynamic weather, more vertical traversal, and hidden shrines.
This expansion appears to lean into Naoe’s ninja-style gameplay while keeping Yasuke’s brute force an essential counterweight. Narrative threads left open in the base game are expected to continue here—possibly offering deeper insight into the tensions shaping feudal Japan and the personal arcs of both protagonists.
What the April 30 Roadmap Might Include
Ubisoft has a well-earned reputation for robust post-launch support, and fans are bracing for a roadmap that matches the scale of what Odyssey and Valhalla delivered. Here’s what might be in store:
📘 Additional Story Expansions
Given Shadows’ historical and geographical richness, we could see more DLC exploring:
- The Shimabara Rebellion
- Encounters with foreign traders or missionaries
- Mythical Japanese folklore woven into the Assassin’s Creed canon
Expect at least two major story-driven expansions, based on past AC trends.
🔁 New Game+ & Replay Features
Players have been vocal about wanting a New Game+ mode, allowing them to replay the campaign with endgame gear and full abilities. Ubisoft has acknowledged this feedback and may confirm its inclusion in the roadmap.
🛡️ Gameplay Enhancements
Possible improvements could include:
- Expanded enemy AI behaviors
- New weapon classes (e.g., chain-sickle or matchlock firearms)
- Side mission generators to keep exploration fresh
Ubisoft might also introduce a “duel mode” or “mercenary system” similar to the bounty hunters from Odyssey.
🎨 Cosmetic and Event Content
Ubisoft often launches limited-time seasonal events featuring themed gear, cosmetics, and time-limited objectives. Expect samurai armor sets, ninja cloaks, and special shrine events during Japanese cultural festivals.
🧠 Educational Additions
Though Shadows lacks a Discovery Mode, Ubisoft may enhance its in-game Codex with narrated historical entries, or even introduce educational side missions tied to real-world artifacts—especially given their partnership with Patrimonio Nacional on authentic recreations.
A Possible Switch 2 Port?
One unexpected twist in Shadows’ post-launch story involves a PEGI listing suggesting that Ubisoft may be planning a version for Nintendo Switch 2. If true, this would mark one of the most ambitious technical feats for Ubisoft on Nintendo hardware. It could also indicate a broader plan to extend the franchise’s reach across generations and platforms.
Characters at the Core: Yasuke and Naoe
As content expands, so too may the dynamics between the game’s two protagonists. Naoe, the stealthy shinobi, has resonated strongly with fans due to her mobility and precision gameplay, while Yasuke’s brute strength and unique perspective as a real historical figure have sparked wider interest outside traditional gaming circles. Any future content will likely continue to explore their contrast—both in combat and philosophy.
Looking Ahead: What Will Ubisoft Deliver?
Ubisoft’s roadmap reveal won’t just be about new content—it will be a litmus test of how deeply they’re willing to invest in Shadows as an evolving platform. Their previous success with regular content drops, free updates, and quality-of-life enhancements (like the recent reintroduction of the horse auto-follow and improved inventory systems) set high expectations for April 30.
And if community engagement remains a core pillar—as Ubisoft insists—players could very well shape the next phase of Shadows’ evolution.
Final Thoughts
April 30 is shaping up to be a landmark day for Assassin’s Creed fans. Whether you’re in it for the sprawling side quests, lore-rich history, or tactical combat, the post-launch DLC roadmap promises to deepen what Assassin’s Creed Shadows already does so well. For longtime fans and newcomers alike, the journey through feudal Japan is far from over.
Overview of ‘Assassin’s Creed Shadows’
Good news for handheld gaming fans! Assassin’s Creed Shadows has recently earned the coveted Steam Deck Verified status, making it officially playable on Valve’s popular portable device. While the game runs well on the Steam Deck, players should be aware that most graphical settings are locked at launch, though Ubisoft has included options for upscaling and frame generation to help with performance.
This development marks an interesting compromise between accessibility and full control. The locked graphics settings might disappoint some power users who prefer to tweak every aspect of their gaming experience, but the Steam Deck verification ensures you’ll have a smooth experience right out of the box. According to reports, the settings lock appears to be temporary, with more options potentially coming in a future update.
Interestingly, there are some differences between platforms. Desktop Linux users have reported Nvidia-specific problems while trying to run the game, making the Steam Deck potentially the best portable Linux gaming option for Shadows at the moment.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows blends feudal Japan’s rich setting with dual protagonists, offering a fresh take on the established franchise formula. The game delivers a compelling mix of stealth and combat in a historically inspired open world.
- Assassin’s Creed Shadows is officially Steam Deck Verified but launches with most graphics settings locked.
- You can still adjust upscaling options and enable frame generation for better performance on the handheld device.
- The locked settings appear to be temporary, with Ubisoft likely planning to unlock more graphical options in a future update.
Game Genre and Atmosphere
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is an action-adventure game set in feudal Japan during the 16th century. You’ll explore a vibrant open world that captures the beauty and tension of Japan during a time of political upheaval and samurai conflicts.
The game features stunning landscapes ranging from bustling cities to serene countryside. Cherry blossoms, traditional architecture, and detailed cultural elements create an immersive atmosphere that feels authentic to the historical period.
As you navigate through different regions, you’ll experience dynamic weather and day-night cycles that affect gameplay and stealth opportunities. The game’s sound design enhances immersion with period-appropriate music and ambient sounds that change based on location and situation.
Core Gameplay and Combat Features
Shadows introduces a dual-protagonist system allowing you to play as both Naoe (a shinobi) and Yasuke (a samurai). This creates two distinct gameplay styles you can switch between based on your preferred approach to missions.
Gameplay Highlights:
- Stealth-focused missions with improved parkour mechanics
- Diverse weapon selection including katanas, kunai, and period firearms
- Enhanced combat system with parrying and counter-attack techniques
- New assassination methods specific to feudal Japan settings
The combat system has been refined to feel more responsive and authentic to Japanese martial traditions. You can use various upscaling settings and frame generation options to optimize performance on different systems.
Side activities include various mini-games, resource gathering, and faction-based missions that expand the narrative beyond the main storyline. These activities reward you with unique gear and skills to enhance your character progression.
Steam Deck Compatibility and Verification
Assassin’s Creed Shadows has officially received Steam Deck Verified status ahead of its release. This certification offers important information about how the game will perform on Valve’s portable gaming device.
Verification Process and Importance
Steam Deck Verification is Valve’s system that evaluates games for compatibility with their handheld device. The Verified badge means the game has passed all of Valve’s compatibility tests, ensuring you can play it on Steam Deck without significant issues.
For Assassin’s Creed Shadows, this verification is particularly noteworthy as it’s a major AAA title receiving day-one Steam Deck support. The verification process evaluates several factors including controller support, display compatibility, and performance stability.
When you see the green Verified checkmark on Steam, you can be confident that Ubisoft has worked with Valve to ensure the game functions properly on the portable device. This eliminates guesswork about whether the game will run on your Steam Deck.
Game Performance on Steam Deck
While Assassin’s Creed Shadows is Steam Deck Verified, there are some important limitations to be aware of. The most significant is that graphical settings will be locked at launch on the Steam Deck.
You won’t be able to customize many visual options initially, but Ubisoft has left upscaling settings available. This means you can still use technologies like FSR to improve performance or visual quality.
Frame generation options remain accessible, allowing you to potentially boost framerates on the device. This is crucial for maintaining smooth gameplay in a demanding title like Assassin’s Creed.
Ubisoft has indicated that the locked settings are temporary, suggesting a future update will provide more graphical customization options for Steam Deck users.
Technical Insights and Locked Settings
Assassin’s Creed Shadows has received Steam Deck Verified status, but it comes with some important technical limitations that affect how you can customize your gameplay experience.
Significance of Locked Settings
When you first launch Assassin’s Creed Shadows on your Steam Deck, you’ll notice that default graphics settings are locked. This means you can’t freely adjust visual parameters like you might expect in other PC games.
This locked configuration isn’t a mistake – it’s by design. Ubisoft has implemented these restrictions to ensure consistent performance across devices. The game does include FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution) technology, which helps maintain playable framerates on the handheld.
You should know that these restrictions aren’t permanent. Ubisoft has indicated that a future update will unlock these settings, giving you more control over the visual experience.
Implications for Cross-Platform Play
The locked settings create a more level playing field between Steam Deck, PS5, and Xbox Series X players. Each platform runs with optimized presets appropriate for their hardware capabilities.
On Steam Deck, the game automatically uses settings that balance performance and visual quality. This approach ensures you get stable framerates without having to manually fine-tune options.
For cross-platform players, this means the game looks and performs similarly regardless of your chosen device. When playing with friends on PS5 or Xbox Series X, you won’t be at a significant disadvantage despite playing on a handheld.
However, PC purists might find this limiting. The inability to push beyond preset configurations feels restrictive compared to typical PC gaming flexibility. Despite being Steam Deck Verified, these limitations represent a console-first approach to game design.
Comparative Analysis with Other Platforms
Assassin’s Creed Shadows performs differently across various gaming platforms, with each offering unique advantages and limitations for players.
Game Experience on PS5 and Xbox Series X
The PS5 and Xbox Series X versions of Assassin’s Creed Shadows offer significantly more graphical options than the Steam Deck version. Unlike the Steam Deck’s locked graphics settings, console players can adjust visual parameters to balance performance and quality.
Both consoles run the game at higher resolution targets (up to 4K) compared to the Steam Deck’s modest 1280×800 display. This difference is particularly noticeable during panoramic scenes of feudal Japan’s landscapes.
The PS5 version features unique DualSense controller integration with haptic feedback during combat sequences, something you won’t experience on Steam Deck or Xbox.
Load times are also shorter on current-gen consoles, with the PS5’s SSD demonstrating particularly impressive performance compared to the Steam Deck.
Performance Metrics and User Experience
The Steam Deck runs Assassin’s Creed Shadows at 30-40 FPS with its preset locked settings, while PS5 and Xbox Series X offer both quality (30 FPS) and performance (60 FPS) modes.
Battery life is a key consideration unique to the Steam Deck platform. You can expect 2-3 hours of playtime before needing to recharge, whereas console players don’t face this limitation.
Control schemes vary significantly across platforms. The Steam Deck offers touchpads and rear buttons that can be customized for smoother gameplay compared to traditional controllers.
Despite being Steam Deck Verified, the portable experience comes with compromises in visual fidelity and frame rates that PS5 and Xbox don’t have.
File sizes also differ noticeably – the Steam version requires less storage space than console installations, an important factor for Steam Deck users with limited storage capacity.
Ubisoft’s Role and Contributions
Ubisoft has played a crucial role in bringing Assassin’s Creed Shadows to the Steam Deck platform with specific optimizations. Their approach balances performance and quality for handheld gaming.
Ubisoft’s Commitment to Quality
Ubisoft has demonstrated their dedication to Steam Deck users by ensuring Assassin’s Creed Shadows received Steam Deck Verified status from Valve. This verification confirms the game meets Valve’s standards for handheld play, making it easier for you to enjoy the experience on the go.
While graphics settings are locked at launch, Ubisoft made strategic decisions about which settings to allow players to adjust. You can still modify important performance features like upscalers and frame generation, giving you some control over the visual experience.
The locked settings represent Ubisoft’s careful optimization for the Steam Deck’s hardware capabilities. This approach helps maintain consistent performance across all Steam Deck devices.
Support and Updates for ‘Assassin’s Creed Shadows’
Ubisoft’s support plan for Assassin’s Creed Shadows on Steam Deck includes ongoing optimization efforts. You can expect the company to monitor performance and user feedback after launch.
The default graphics settings are currently locked, but Ubisoft has enabled FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution) options. This gives you flexibility to balance between visual quality and battery life on your Steam Deck.
Ubisoft’s update strategy may include:
- Performance improvements
- Bug fixes specific to the Steam Deck version
- Potential unlocking of additional graphics settings in future patches
The verification process with Valve shows Ubisoft’s willingness to work within the Steam Deck ecosystem, ensuring you have access to their flagship franchise on this popular handheld platform.
Steam’s Ecosystem and User Engagement
Steam’s platform provides a unique environment for games like Assassin’s Creed Shadows, combining verification systems with community features that enhance the overall player experience on devices like the Steam Deck.
Impact of Steam’s Infrastructure on Gaming Experience
Valve’s Steam Deck verification system gives you confidence when purchasing games like Assassin’s Creed Shadows. When you see that Verified status, you know the game meets specific performance standards on the handheld device.
The verification process evaluates several aspects including controller compatibility, performance stability, and interface readability. For Assassin’s Creed Shadows, this verification comes with a notable caveat – locked graphics settings at launch.
You’ll still have access to important performance features like upscaling options and frame generation. This selective approach to settings helps ensure consistent performance across all Steam Deck devices while maintaining a playable experience.
Community Features and Social Aspects
Steam’s community features significantly enhance your Assassin’s Creed Shadows experience beyond just playing the game. User reviews provide valuable insights about how the game performs specifically on Steam Deck with its locked settings.
The discussion forums allow you to connect with other players facing similar challenges or discovering optimal configurations. Many users share their experiences with the available upscaler settings that remain accessible despite other graphics options being locked.
Valve’s community hub also enables you to share and view screenshots, guides, and achievements. This collaborative environment helps overcome limitations of the locked settings by crowdsourcing solutions and workarounds until Ubisoft potentially releases updates to unlock more graphical options.
Game Narrative and World-Building
Assassin’s Creed Shadows offers a rich narrative experience within feudal Japan, blending historical elements with the series’ signature storytelling approach. The game world creates an immersive atmosphere whether you’re playing on Steam Deck or other platforms.
Storytelling and Character Development
In Assassin’s Creed Shadows, you’ll experience the dual protagonist system featuring Naoe, a shinobi assassin, and Yasuke, a samurai warrior. Their intertwining stories provide contrasting perspectives on feudal Japan during the Sengoku period.
Character progression feels natural as you navigate through the narrative, with emotional depth that keeps you invested despite the Steam Deck’s smaller screen. Dialogue remains crisp and engaging without performance issues.
Side quests aren’t mere distractions but add meaningful context to the world and characters. Each mission you complete reveals more about Japanese culture and the historical setting.
The game maintains the franchise’s tradition of blending historical figures with fictional elements. You’ll encounter famous samurai and political figures while uncovering the hidden Assassin-Templar conflict underlying Japan’s power struggles.
Environmental Puzzling and Exploration
The Steam Deck’s verified status ensures you can fully enjoy the game’s detailed Japanese landscapes without compromise. Ancient temples, bustling villages, and dense forests are all rendered beautifully, even with locked graphics settings.
Environmental puzzles are thoughtfully integrated into the world design. You’ll solve intricate temple mechanisms and discover hidden entrances that feel natural within the setting rather than contrived gameplay elements.
Vertical exploration takes center stage with climbing mechanics optimized for the Steam Deck controls. Scaling pagodas and mountain cliffs feels responsive despite the handheld format.
Discovery is rewarded through meaningful collectibles and hidden areas that expand the lore. The game encourages you to venture off the beaten path with interesting historical locations and artifacts that provide insight into feudal Japan.
Water areas feature unique puzzling elements that diversify gameplay, with river and coastal regions offering distinct navigation and stealth challenges perfectly playable on the portable system.
Additional Content and Expansion
While Assassin’s Creed Shadows has achieved Steam Deck Verified status, you might be wondering about future content plans for the handheld version.
Ubisoft typically follows a standard DLC roadmap for Assassin’s Creed titles, which will likely apply to the Steam Deck version as well. The locked graphics settings are expected to be addressed in a future update, potentially alongside early expansion content.
The current expansion pass includes:
- Two major story expansions (expected to be fully compatible with Steam Deck)
- Cosmetic packs for both playable characters
- Exclusive missions with unique rewards
You’ll be able to download all DLC content directly to your Steam Deck through the Steam store. The download sizes for expansions will likely be optimized for the handheld, similar to the main game.
Ubisoft has also announced a digital artbook available as an ebook that showcases the game’s feudal Japan setting. This supplementary content can be viewed directly on your Steam Deck using the built-in browser or PDF viewer.
Remember that while graphical options remain limited on Steam Deck for now, upscaling settings and frame generation options are still accessible to help you balance performance and battery life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Players have many questions about Assassin’s Creed Shadows on Steam Deck. The game’s Verified status comes with some limitations, particularly regarding graphics settings.
What are the system requirements for running Assassin’s Creed Shadows on the Steam Deck?
Assassin’s Creed Shadows runs on the standard Steam Deck hardware without requiring any special configurations. The game has been officially Steam Deck Verified by Valve, meaning it meets compatibility standards for the handheld.
You don’t need to worry about additional storage requirements beyond the game’s installation size. The default Steam Deck specifications are sufficient for running the game at playable performance levels.
Has performance optimization for Assassin’s Creed Shadows on the Steam Deck been addressed?
Ubisoft has implemented specific optimizations for Steam Deck players. The game includes upscaling settings and frame generation options to help maintain performance.
You can choose between different upscalers to balance visual quality and framerate. These options allow you to customize the experience within the constraints of the locked graphics settings.
The developers appear to have prioritized providing a consistent experience rather than letting players potentially create unplayable configurations.
Can players expect full compatibility with Steam Deck’s control scheme when playing Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
You can expect complete controller compatibility as part of the Steam Deck Verified status. The control scheme has been adapted specifically for the Steam Deck’s button layout and touchpads.
All game functions are accessible using the Steam Deck’s controls without needing to connect external peripherals. This includes combat, navigation, and menu interactions.
The interface elements have also been optimized for readability on the smaller screen of the Steam Deck.
What are the implications of locked settings for Assassin’s Creed Shadows on the Steam Deck?
The most significant limitation is that graphical settings will be locked at launch. You won’t be able to manually adjust visual quality settings like texture resolution, shadow quality, or draw distance.
This restriction helps ensure consistent performance but limits your ability to customize the visual experience. Ubisoft has determined a specific graphics profile that balances visuals and performance for the Steam Deck hardware.
You can still adjust upscaling settings, which gives you some control over the performance-quality balance.
Are there any known issues with running Assassin’s Creed Shadows on the Steam Deck?
While the game is Steam Deck Verified, there are reports of issues with the desktop Linux version. These NVIDIA-specific problems don’t affect Steam Deck users directly since the Deck uses AMD hardware.
You might experience occasional frame drops during graphically intensive scenes. This is expected given the hardware constraints of the portable device compared to desktop gaming systems.
Battery life may also be shorter than with less demanding games, so you’ll want to play while connected to power for extended sessions.
Will Assassin’s Creed Shadows receive updates or patches to improve its playability on the Steam Deck?
Ubisoft has not explicitly stated plans for Steam Deck-specific updates, but the game achieved Verified status earlier than expected, suggesting ongoing support.
You can reasonably expect performance patches as part of the general game update cycle. Ubisoft typically supports their major titles with several months of updates post-launch.
The locked graphics settings might be adjusted or opened up in future updates if player feedback warrants changes to this approach.
