Ubisoft has announced an updated roadmap for Assassin`s Creed Shadows, confirming that the `Claws of Awaji` expansion will launch on September 16. This downloadable content (DLC) will be provided free to players who pre-ordered the game, but it will also be available for separate purchase for those who did not pre-order.
The `Claws of Awaji` expansion is set to significantly expand the game world, introducing a new weapon class for Naoe, alongside additional abilities, new gear to collect, and fresh enemy types. Ubisoft estimates this expansion will contribute approximately 10 hours of new gameplay to Assassin`s Creed Shadows.
Further updates include the highly anticipated New Game Plus mode, becoming available on July 29. This mode allows players to restart the story and reset objective progress while retaining all previously acquired skills, gear, knowledge ranks, and Hideout advancements. Additionally, players will be able to skip introductory tutorial sections by fast-forwarding through the prologue chapters.
The maximum level for all players will be raised from 60 to 80, complemented by new Mastery and Knowledge Skill ranks. All Hideout buildings, including Heiji`s Forge, will receive new upgrade options. A substantial quality-of-life update is also planned for September, preceding the `Claws of Awaji` expansion. Key improvements include:
- Region fog will clear completely upon synchronizing all viewpoints.
- Option to instantly skip time-of-day to dusk or dawn.
- New Forge upgrade levels for Mythic (from Epic) and Artifact (from Legendary) equipment rarities.
- Further Hideout improvements and upgrades.
- Uncapped framerate for PC cutscenes.
- Extra content for long-time series enthusiasts.
- Ongoing bug fixes and stability enhancements.
In other news, Ubisoft recently announced that Assassin`s Creed Shadows has surpassed 5 million players, with hints that it might expand to additional platforms in the future. The game`s performance has reportedly `met expectations.` Furthermore, the long-awaited live-action Netflix series adaptation of the Assassin`s Creed franchise is now officially in development, five years after its initial announcement.