Ubisoft Cancels Early Access and Season Pass for Assassin's Creed Shadows

In a recent announcement, Ubisoft has made several significant changes to the release plan of their upcoming game, Assassin's Creed Shadows. Most notably, the early access and season pass for the game have been canceled.

Delayed Release

Originally scheduled to launch on November 12, 2024, Assassin's Creed Shadows will now be released on February 14, 2025. This three-month delay is intended to give the developers more time to "polish and refine the experience" and to further develop some of the game's key features.

Reasons Behind the Delay

The decision to delay the game is partly influenced by the feedback from the recent release of Star Wars Outlaws, which, despite positive reviews, had softer-than-expected initial sales. Ubisoft aims to ensure that Assassin's Creed Shadows meets its ambitious goals, particularly with its dual protagonist adventure featuring Naoe and Yasuke, each offering distinct gameplay styles.

Changes in Distribution and Preorders

Unlike previous Ubisoft releases, Assassin's Creed Shadows will be available on Steam from the day of its launch, marking a departure from the exclusive deal with the Epic Games Store. Additionally, Ubisoft has abandoned the traditional season pass model. Instead, all players who preorder the game will receive the first expansion for free. Existing preorders will be refunded.

Cancellation of Press Previews and Tokyo Game Show Appearance

Ubisoft has also canceled the press previews for Assassin's Creed Shadows, which were set to take place next week. This move follows the cancellation of their online appearance at the Tokyo Game Show 2024 due to unspecified circumstances. These cancellations have raised speculation about potential issues with the game's development and reception.

Impact on Players and Community

The delay and changes in the release plan are likely to be disappointing for fans who were eagerly awaiting the game. However, Ubisoft believes that this extra time will ultimately enhance the player experience. The company has apologized for the short notice and any inconvenience caused, emphasizing their commitment to delivering a high-quality game.