JorRaptor recently published a comprehensive review of Assassin's Creed Shadows after dedicating 80 hours to the game. This review dives deep into the gameplay, graphics, narrative, and overall experience, offering valuable insights for potential players. Here's a breakdown of the key points:
Gameplay and Mechanics
The game excels in its fluid movement and combat, making players feel powerful and skilled. The absence of stamina for running allows for seamless traversal and combat encounters. Objectives are designed to be completed quickly, preventing the game from feeling overwhelming.
Key takeaway: "The movement and combat are incredibly fluid, making you feel like a pro."
World Design and Graphics
The game world, set in Japan, is beautifully crafted and immersive. The smaller, more detailed map contrasts favorably with previous titles like Valhalla. Impressive wind tech, dense forests, and seasonal changes (especially winter) enhance the next-gen feel. The reviewer noted improvements in ray tracing and lighting on the PS5 Pro.
Key takeaway: "The world is beautiful and exciting to explore, with impressive seasonal changes."
Seasonal Changes and Hideout
Seasonal changes significantly impact gameplay, affecting movement and vendor availability. The hideout, while customizable, is not a core part of the game. Frame rate drops were noted in the hideout on consoles.
Key takeaway: "Seasonal changes affect gameplay, and the hideout is more of a customization feature."
Gear, Loot, and Objectives
The gear and loot system has been improved, with a blacksmith allowing for weapon and gear upgrades. The random loot system encourages players to experiment with different looks. The game features various factions and targets, providing a constant stream of objectives and mini-boss fights.
Key takeaway: "Improved gear and loot system, with a variety of objectives and targets."
Character Switching and Combat
Switching between Naoe and Yasuke offers a varied gameplay experience, though some narrative issues arise with NPCs not reacting to character switches. Combat and enemy variety were noted as areas for potential improvement, with some boss fights feeling lackluster.
Key takeaway: "Character switching adds variety, but combat and enemy variety could be better."
Bugs and Narrative
The game has some bugs, but it's in a better state than Valhalla at launch. The reviewer enjoyed the opening and flashback scenes but found the main narrative less engaging, criticizing the inclusion of meaningless choices.
Key takeaway: "Some bugs exist, but the narrative is the weakest part of the game."
Overall Impression
Despite some flaws, JorRaptor considers Assassin's Creed Shadows an awesome game that improves upon many aspects of Valhalla. The fluid gameplay, beautiful world, and varied objectives make it a worthwhile experience.
Watch the full review on YouTube