Good news for Steam gamers! If you’re excited about Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, there’s one less thing to worry about when playing on Steam. Ubisoft has confirmed that Steam users won’t need to install the separate Ubisoft Connect Launcher to play the game. This represents a significant shift from Ubisoft’s previous approach that often required multiple launchers to run their games.
When you purchase Assassin’s Creed: Shadows through Steam, you’ll still need to link a Ubisoft Connect account, but the standalone launcher won’t be required. This change creates a more streamlined experience for PC gamers who prefer to keep their game library centralized on Steam. The Steam installation already includes the necessary components to run the game without additional software.
This player-friendly move reflects Ubisoft’s evolving distribution strategies. While account linking still enables features like cross-saving capabilities, the reduced launcher requirements make for a smoother gaming experience now that Shadows is fully launched.
Other AC Shadows News
New Content & Updates
Ubisoft released Title Update 1.0.4 on May 6, 2025, introducing a free new story mission titled “The Works of Luis Frois”. In this chapter, players meet the Jesuit priest Luis in the town of Azuchi, where a new questline unlocks upon completing the main mission “Path He Walks.” This update deepens the game’s historical storytelling and adds to its growing narrative content.
Alongside the new mission, the Codex system was overhauled to include detailed biographies of major and minor characters encountered throughout the world. This revamp offers additional historical and lore-rich context to enrich the player’s journey across feudal Japan.
Ubisoft also introduced several quality-of-life improvements based on player feedback:
- New parkour moves for smoother and more vertical navigation
- Expanded difficulty settings for both combat and stealth encounters
- A New Game Plus mode that raises the level cap and introduces replayable content
- Auto-follow functionality for mounts to streamline long-distance travel
- Numerous bug fixes across AI behavior, quest logic, and UI performance
Post-Launch Roadmap
The first major expansion, Claws of Awaji, is set to launch later in 2025. It continues the stories of both protagonists—Naoe and Yasuke—as they explore Awaji Island. The expansion promises around 10 hours of new content, new regions to explore, and introduces a new weapon for Naoe: the bo staff. Those who pre-ordered the game receive this DLC as part of their bonus content.
In addition, Ubisoft has committed to monthly story updates throughout the year. These narrative drops will introduce new characters, relationships, and plotlines that branch from the main story, evolving the overall campaign with fresh developments. The first of these, “The Works of Luis Frois,” launched in early May.
Platform Availability & Future Plans
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows is currently available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. There is growing speculation—fueled by a recent PEGI listing—that the game may also be heading to the rumored Nintendo Switch 2. Ubisoft has not officially confirmed this version, but reports suggest the company is preparing optimized builds for next-generation portable hardware.
Reception & Sales
Within just 24 hours of launch, Assassin’s Creed: Shadows surpassed 3 million players, making it one of the fastest-growing titles in the franchise’s history. The combination of a rich historical setting, new dual-character gameplay, and a fresh stealth-combat balance has drawn critical acclaim.
Reviewers and fans have praised the game’s authentic portrayal of feudal Japan, engaging storylines, and polished mechanics. With its early momentum and steady stream of updates, Ubisoft appears committed to supporting the game well into 2025 and beyond.
Key Takeaways
- Steam users can play Assassin’s Creed: Shadows without installing the standalone Ubisoft Connect Launcher.
- You’ll still need to link a Ubisoft Connect account to access features like cross-saving.
- The streamlined installation process marks a major change in Ubisoft’s game distribution on Steam.
Overview of Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows brings players to feudal Japan with dual protagonists and a rich historical setting. The game introduces new stealth mechanics and combat systems while expanding the franchise’s narrative into one of the most requested time periods.
Key Features and Gameplay
Assassin’s Creed: Shadows features two playable protagonists – shinobi Naoe and samurai Yasuke. Each character brings unique playstyles to the game. Naoe excels at stealth and agility, while Yasuke offers powerful combat abilities.
The gameplay introduces refined stealth mechanics, including improved parkour systems. You can blend into crowds, hide in tall grass, and use rooftops to avoid detection.
Combat has been redesigned with era-appropriate weapons like katanas, kunai, and shuriken. The game includes a new skill tree system that allows for character specialization.
Some standout features include:
- Day/night cycle affecting NPC behaviors and stealth opportunities
- Enhanced enemy AI with improved detection patterns
- Customizable weapons and armor with historical accuracy
- Expanded traversal options including grappling hooks
Narrative and Setting
Set in feudal Japan during the Sengoku period, Shadows explores a time of political upheaval and civil war. You’ll navigate a Japan divided by powerful daimyo lords while following the stories of Naoe and Yasuke.
The narrative explores themes of honor, duty, and belonging. Yasuke’s story draws inspiration from the historical African samurai, while Naoe’s tale delves into the secretive shinobi clans.
Key historical figures appear throughout the game, including Oda Nobunaga and Tokugawa Ieyasu. You’ll visit:
- Kyoto’s Imperial Palace
- Mount Fuji and surrounding villages
- Edo (modern-day Tokyo) in its early development
- Various castles and fortresses across Japan
Connection to the Assassin’s Creed Franchise
Shadows continues the series’ blend of historical fiction and the Assassins vs. Templars conflict. It builds on storylines from Assassin’s Creed Valhalla while carving out a new chapter.
The modern-day storyline advances the Isu civilization arc. You’ll see how the Assassin Brotherhood gained a foothold in feudal Japan and fought Templar influence.
The game features Eagle Vision (renamed “Shadow Vision”) and classic tools like the Hidden Blade. Collectibles and viewpoints return as well.
Shadows doesn’t require constant online connectivity. You’ll only need internet for the initial install.
Ubisoft’s Strategy for Game Access
Ubisoft is evolving how players access games across platforms. This reflects growing demand for convenience and streamlined experiences.
Ubisoft Connect and Its Role
Ubisoft Connect replaced Uplay in 2020. Traditionally, Steam purchases required the full Ubisoft launcher, adding steps and slowing access.
With Assassin’s Creed Shadows, this requirement is gone. Steam players still need a Ubisoft account, but no separate launcher is needed.
This marks a major pivot for Ubisoft, addressing long-standing player frustrations about launcher bloat.
Digital Rights Management
Ubisoft’s DRM policies have softened. Instead of requiring standalone software, Shadows uses embedded account checks.
You’ll still link your Ubisoft account so the game can:
- Track ownership
- Enable cross-progression
- Deliver updates
- Offer rewards
This approach offers DRM control without sacrificing user experience.
System Requirements and Availability
PC Specifications
Minimum specs include Windows 10, an i7-8700K or Ryzen 5 3600, 16GB RAM, and a GTX 1660 Ti or RX 5600 XT. About 65GB of storage is needed.
Recommended specs for high settings include:
- CPU: i5-10600K or Ryzen 7 3700X
- RAM: 16GB
- GPU: RTX 3070 or RX 6800 XT
- Storage: SSD with 65GB free
Steam users do not need the Ubisoft Connect Launcher, though account linking and internet are required for initial setup.
Console Availability
Shadows is available on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. PS4 and Xbox One are not supported.
PS5 supports 4K and 60 FPS with haptics; Xbox Series X offers similar performance. Series S targets 1440p. Quick Resume is supported.
Pre-orders include bonus content like exclusive gear and missions.
In-Game Content and Features
Weapons and Equipment
Yasuke uses katanas and heavy weapons, while Naoe relies on kunai, shuriken, and stealth tools.
Weapons can be upgraded through gameplay. Armor is customizable and affects performance.
In-Game Purchases and DLC
Several DLC packs are planned, including story expansions. A Season Pass covers all major additions.
Cosmetics include outfits and skins. Steam offers all downloadable content without requiring the Ubisoft Connect Launcher.
Cross-progression is available via your linked Ubisoft account.
Cross-Titles Platforms and Services
Ubisoft+ Subscription Service
Ubisoft+ provides access to premium editions and early releases, including Assassin’s Creed Shadows, through PC and cloud streaming services.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements to play Assassin’s Creed: Shadows on Steam?
No Ubisoft Connect Launcher is needed. Just install from Steam and link your Ubisoft account once.
How does removing the launcher affect gameplay?
You’ll get faster startup and a cleaner experience without losing access to Ubisoft Connect features.
Are there functional differences between Steam and Ubisoft versions?
Only in the launch process. Content and gameplay are the same.
Will achievements and friends lists work on Steam?
Yes. You get both Steam and Ubisoft achievements, and both friend lists are supported.
How do I fix ownership issues?
Ensure your Ubisoft and Steam accounts are linked. Log in again or contact support if issues persist.
Why should I buy Assassin’s Creed: Shadows on Steam?
Streamlined launcher-free experience, Steam features, wallet support, and frequent sales make it a great choice.
