As anticipation builds for the official unveiling of the next Assassin’s Creed game today, multiple leaks have potentially spoiled some major details about Assassin’s Creed Shadows. A purported leaked cover image shows the game will feature dual protagonists – the real-life African samurai Yasuke as well as a female shinobi named Naoe. Meanwhile, insiders also claim Shadows will introduce a new Battle Pass-style progression system, raising concerns among fans.
The leaked artwork, which has been circulating online, clearly displays both Yasuke and Naoe brandishing their respective weapons against the backdrop of feudal Japan. According to reports from insiders, Yasuke’s story will begin with him as the lone survivor of a slaughtered slave ship crew before being rescued and trained in the way of the samurai.
Naoe, meanwhile, is said to join the Assassins after her family is murdered by the Templar Order. Her path will cross with Yasuke’s as the two form an alliance to reunify Japan, which is mired in civil war during this historical period. Notable real-life figures like Oda Nobunaga, Hattori Hanzo and Toyotomi Hideyoshi are also expected to appear.
While dual protagonists are nothing new for Assassin’s Creed, some fans have expressed trepidation about reports from insiders claiming Shadows will feature a “mini” Battle Pass system tentatively called “Projects.” Prominent leaker Tom Henderson claims there will be 20 levels for each Project, with cosmetic rewards unlocked by progressing through them.
The three known Project codenames so far are “The Hidden Network,” “The Last Ronin,” and “In The Shadows.” If accurate, this would mark the first time an Assassin’s Creed game has incorporated a Battle Pass-style live service component for cosmetics and potentially other content.
Ubisoft is expected to provide full official details on the feudal Japan-set Assassin’s Creed Shadows later today during a scheduled reveal livestream at 9am PT / 12pm ET. According to leaked release date information, the game is currently targeting a November 15, 2024 launch.
The dual protagonist setup seems primed to deliver an epic, contrasting perspective on the tumultuous Sengoku period. However, the prospect of a Battle Pass has already sparked concerns from fans hoping Assassin’s Creed avoids aggressive live service tactics. Regardless, all eyes are on Ubisoft as the veil is finally lifted on the next major Assassin’s Creed adventure.