Ubisoft’sAssassin’s Creedseries is now known for many different things, but its iconic stealth gameplay will remain a significant part of its history. Unfortunately, the series' more recent entries have pulled up its stealth roots and replaced them with the vitality and energy found in atypical action RPG, thereby favoring modern audiences who crave instant gratification above the patience and deliberation that stealth gameplay requires. That’s what makesAssassin’s Creed Shadowsand its stealth-based protagonist, Naoe, such a significant stepping stone for the franchise, as it shows a sign of life for the series' ailing stealth traditions.
Assassin’s Creedrecently attempted to take players back to the stealth roots of the franchise withAC Mirage, which, despite garnering a mediocre reception, was praised for its classic feel. However, worries were still present that the series would not be able to evolve while simultaneously prioritizing what made it great in the first place, asAC Mirage’s dull protagonist and story seemed to rely too heavily on selling nostalgia.Assassin’s Creed Shadows' Naoe, on the other hand, seems like an evolution of the series' stealth that still honors its foundations.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows' Naoe Is a Sign of Life for the Series' Stealth Roots
Assassin’s Creed Shadows' Naoe Specializes in Stealth Gameplay
One of the most obvious indicators that theAssassin’s Creedfranchise as a whole seems to be headed back to its stealth roots isAssassin’s Creed Shadows' dual protagonists. Yasuke was designed to appeal more to modern audiences who have become accustomed toAssassin’s Creed’s RPG and action-oriented gameplay, which began taking shape inAssassin’s Creed Origins. Despite Yasuke’s modern design, however, it is precisely what makes Naoe so special, as it leaves her with enough room to prioritize stealth gameplay above all else.
Naoe’s stealth specialization then opens the door for her to have more stealth-based skills and maneuvers than a hybrid character could without becoming too complex. IfAssassin’s Creedkeeps this up, the series could continue to see more protagonists like Naoe, who are intentionally designed with stealth in mind rather than a variety of playstyles. This is largely howAssassin’s Creed’s earliest protagonistsfunctioned, so it could signal a full-scale return to form for the series.
EvenAC Mirage’s protagonist, Basim, despite leading what was claimed to beAssassin’s Creed’s return to roots, was still a hybrid of stealth and action gameplay.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows' Naoe Can Perform Classic Stealth Maneuvers
Another reasonAssassin’s Creed Shadows' Naoeis a sign of life for the series' ailing stealth gameplay stems from some recent reports that she will be able to perform classic stealth maneuvers — specifically,Assassin’s Creed’s long unaccounted for double assassination. The double assassination maneuver has been missing from the series sinceAssassin’s Creed Syndicate, which was released almost a decade ago now. Regardless of why, its return inAssassin’s Creed Shadowssuggests the series is now looking to the past for inspiration.
Assassin’s Creed Shadowsis also bringing back thePivot Blade, which was first introduced inAssassin’s Creed 3as one of Connor’s special methods for taking down foes from a stealth position. The Pivot Blade is given quite the spotlight inAC Shadows' reveal trailer — so it’s likely it will have some prominence in the game — but the real treat is in knowing that it is, once again, drawing inspiration from the series' rudiments.
All in all, Naoe could be a sign of what’s to come forAssassin’s Creed’s stealth, assuming the franchise continues the trend it seems to be establishing. Whether future installments have multiple protagonists, likeAssassin’s Creed Shadows,or they simply force players back into stealth gameplay, Naoe makes it seem like things are getting back on track again.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows
WHERE TO PLAY
Experience an epic historical action-adventure story set in feudal Japan! Become a lethal shinobi Assassin and a powerful legendary samurai as you explore a beautiful open world in a time of chaos. Switch seamlessly between two unlikely allies as you discover their common destiny. Master complementary playstyles, create your shinobi league, customize your hideout, and usher in a new era for Japan.• Explore the captivating open world of feudal Japan, from spectacular castle towns and bustling ports to peaceful shrines and war-ravaged landscapes. Adventure through unpredictable weather, changing seasons, and reactive environments.• Become Naoe, a shinobi Assassin, and Yasuke, a legendary samurai, as you experience their riveting stories and master their complementary playstyles. As Naoe, use stealth to avoid detection and agility to confound your enemies. As Yasuke, strike your foes with lethal precision and power. Unlock new skills, gear, and progression independently for each character.• Make information your weapon as you explore the world, and build your own network of spies to be your eyes and ears across locations to hunt down your next target. Along the way, recruit new allies with unique abilities to help accomplish your missions.• Create a fully customizable hideout for your growing shinobi league as you train your crew, craft new gear, interact with key characters, and choose your base’s layout, decorations, and accessories.
