Assassin's Creed Shadows Main Story 40 Hours, New Game+ Possible

Assassin's Creed Shadows offers a main campaign lasting approximately 30-40 hours, with the potential addition of New Game+ in upcoming updates. Discover the development team's vision for the game and explore the Hideout in detail.

Assassin's Creed Shadows Gameplay Length Detailed

Main Campaign Estimated at 30-40 Hours

Players can expect to spend 30-40 hours completing the main storyline in Assassin's Creed Shadows. During the game's showcase event in Kyoto, Genki Gamer interviewed Creative Director Johnathan Dumont about the project's scope.

Dumont confirmed that the primary campaign requires 30-40 hours to complete, with over 80 hours of additional side content available. The development team is also evaluating player feedback regarding New Game+ mode and other potential features. This addition has been highly anticipated by fans, especially since Assassin's Creed Valhalla did not include New Game+ functionality.

The creative director highlighted several key features, including a dynamic world with seasonal changes and weather systems, innovative gameplay mechanics, an expanded customizable hideout, and a new Animus narrative that connects to future Assassin's Creed titles.

Developing a Japanese-Themed Assassin's Creed Title

Dumont shared that creating a Japan-based Assassin's Creed game represented a long-standing ambition for the development team. He explained that the Japanese setting required natural world movement elements that current technology now makes possible, combined with an engaging narrative.

While drawing inspiration from Japanese cinema including 13 Assassins, Sekigahara, Zatoichi, and Kurosawa films, the team has incorporated distinctive Assassin's Creed elements. Dumont acknowledged community discussions about the game and noted the team considers constructive feedback. The inclusion of Yasuke as a black samurai has generated particular discourse regarding historical and cultural representation.

Despite these conversations, Dumont emphasized the team's commitment to delivering an exceptional gaming experience that demonstrates their dedication to Japanese fans.

Exploring the Hideout in Depth

Secret Valley of Izumi Settsu

On March 5, 2025, the official Assassin's Creed Shadows website published detailed information about the Hideout's features and mechanics. Located in the secluded Izumi Settsu valley, this base serves as headquarters for establishing the Brotherhood's presence in the region.

Systems Associate Director Dany described the Hideout as "quite ambitious," noting: "Following previous bases like fortresses, villas, homesteads, pirate coves, café-theatres, moving trains, ships, settlements, and assassin bureaus, we knew innovation required bold steps. This means providing players complete freedom to construct their homebase."

Players receive an acre of land to fully customize with buildings, pavilions, pathways, local plants, wildlife, and other elements. Dany explained, "We want players to truly make the Hideout their own. Customization options continuously unlock throughout your adventure, ensuring your base reflects your personal journey."

Building Your Community

The Hideout accommodates various characters who support the player's mission, each featuring unique backstories and personal challenges. These characters inhabit different areas based on their preferences - combat-oriented characters frequent the Dojo, while others might enjoy sake in the Zashiki.

This system enables players to discover new character interactions, creating a dynamic environment that feels like a genuine home for allies. Dany emphasized, "Gathering allies in one location enables deeper character development. We brought together writers from four international studios to create interactions based on scenarios like 'What if these two characters became roommates?' The resulting moments make the Hideout feel like the league's vibrant heart."

Based on the features and mechanics revealed, Assassin's Creed Shadows appears poised to deliver an authentic Japanese experience through the distinctive lens of the Assassin's Creed franchise.

Assassin's Creed Shadows launches March 20, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. For the latest updates about Assassin's Creed Shadows, explore our additional coverage below!