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In a recent interview, Ubisoft shared insights into the future of Assassin’s Creed Shadows and its upcoming content roadmap. The game’s director has confirmed that while there will be no large-scale expansions akin to the previous major release, ‘The Claws of Awaji’, players can expect a series of smaller updates and enhancements in the second year. This strategic approach marks a shift in how the franchise supports its titles post-launch, focusing on more incremental content releases.
Simon Lemay-Comtois, the associate game director, emphasized that the development team is currently working on a variety of new content aimed at enriching the gaming experience. He noted, “For Year 2, we are planning several updates that will introduce substantial changes, but no expansion comparable in size to ‘The Claws of Awaji’ is currently on the table.” This decision reflects a commitment to continually engaging players without overwhelming them with too much content at once.
Details on the upcoming content
Fans of the franchise can look forward to a range of updates that will enhance gameplay and introduce fresh elements. While these additions won’t include major expansions, they will provide new experiences through updates that modify gameplay mechanics and introduce new challenges. Lemay-Comtois mentioned that players can expect a mix of new quests and potential story drops that will expand on character backgrounds and narratives.
Additional quests and story elements
One of the most anticipated features is the introduction of new storylines, including side missions that delve deeper into character relationships. The recent addition of a quest titled ‘A Puzzlement’ exemplifies this initiative, wherein players can explore the dynamics between characters Naoe and Yasuke as they engage with familiar faces from the game’s introduction. Completing this quest will unlock unique skills for both characters, showcasing the interconnectedness of gameplay and narrative.
Interestingly, the quest also leads to an Isu vault, an element that many players have long awaited. However, Lemay-Comtois cautioned players not to expect an extensive adventure within the vault, stating, “It’s not a full-blown Isu temple with hours of gameplay but rather a smaller location that offers insights into the lore of the First Civilization.” This approach ensures that players receive depth in story without the commitment of lengthy gameplay experiences.
Microtransactions as a funding model
As the gaming industry evolves, the role of microtransactions has become increasingly pivotal, even for a franchise as established as Assassin’s Creed. Lemay-Comtois defended the presence of microtransactions within Assassin’s Creed Shadows, explaining that they are essential for funding ongoing content updates and enhancements. He stated, “Microtransactions, despite the criticism they often receive, are crucial for us to sustain the development of Isu lore, quest content, and parkour updates. They allow us to keep providing fresh experiences without compromising on quality.”
The balance between content and monetization
While many players appreciate the ongoing updates, there remains some discontent regarding the presence of microtransactions in a full-priced game. However, Lemay-Comtois highlighted that the game has returned to offering a blend of free updates alongside additional paid content, aiming to strike a balance between monetization and player satisfaction. Recent free updates have introduced exciting crossover events, such as the collaboration with the popular anime series Attack on Titan, which has sparked varied reactions from fans.
As the franchise continues to grow, Ubisoft is committed to providing players with new content while navigating the complexities of a monetized gaming environment. The studio is keen to maintain player engagement through continuous updates and a variety of experiences that enrich the world of Assassin’s Creed Shadows.