If you're eagerly awaiting the next installment in the Assassin’s Creed series, you’ll be thrilled to learn that *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* promises an engaging experience with a main campaign that will take around 30-40 hours to complete. During the AC Shadows’ Showcase Event in Kyoto, Genki Gamer had the opportunity to discuss the game with Creative Director Johnathan Dumont, who shared insights into what players can expect.
Main Campaign Will Be Around 30-40 Hours
Dumont revealed that *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* (AC Shadows) will offer a main campaign that spans 30-40 hours, with an additional 80+ hours of side content for players to explore. The team is also considering the addition of a New Game+ mode and other features based on player feedback. This is particularly exciting news for fans who were disappointed by the absence of New Game+ in *AC Valhalla*.
Dumont highlighted several key features of AC Shadows, including a dynamic world with changing seasons and weather systems, new gameplay mechanics, and an expanded customizable hideout. The game will also introduce a new Animus story that connects to future Assassin’s Creed projects.
Working on a Japanese-themed Assassin’s Creed Game
The team behind AC Shadows has long dreamed of creating a game set in Japan. Dumont explained that the setting required a natural world with movement, and now, with the right technology and a compelling story, they are bringing this vision to life. The game draws inspiration from Japanese films such as *13 Assassins*, *Sekigahara*, *Zatoichi*, and works by Kurosawa, but with a unique Assassin’s Creed twist.
Dumont acknowledged the online controversy surrounding the game, particularly the inclusion of Yasuke, the black samurai, which has sparked debate due to its historical and cultural implications. Despite this, the team remains committed to delivering an exceptional game and showcasing their dedication to their Japanese audience.
Deep Dive Into The Hideout
Secret Valley of Izumi Settsu
On March 5, 2025, AC Shadows provided a detailed look at the Hideout's features and mechanics on their official website. Located in the secluded valley of Izumi Settsu province, the Hideout will serve as the players’ base of operations as they build the Brotherhood in the region.
Systems Associate Director Dany described the Hideout as an ambitious project, saying, "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. That meant giving players the option to build their homebase with complete freedom."
Players will have an acre of land to customize, allowing them to place buildings, pavilions, pathways, and local flora and fauna. Dany emphasized, "We really want players to make the Hideout their own." As players progress through the game, they will unlock more customization options, reflecting their journey.
A League of Your Own
The Hideout will also house various characters who will assist the player, each with their own backstories and challenges. These characters will occupy different areas of the Hideout based on their interests, such as fighters spending time in the Dojo or others enjoying sake in the Zashiki.
This setup allows players to uncover new dialogues and interactions between characters, making the Hideout a dynamic and vibrant home for allies. Dany noted, "Having our allies in one place creates opportunities for character development. We gathered the writers (from 4 different studios all over the world) in a meeting and had them create interactions inspired by questions like, 'What would happen if these two characters suddenly became roommates?' I really love all the cool little moments they came up with. It makes the Hideout feel like the beating heart of the league."
With its rich features and mechanics, *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is poised to deliver an authentic Japanese experience with the signature Assassin’s Creed flair.
*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is set to launch on March 20, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Stay tuned for more updates and insights by checking out our related articles below!
