Discussions are gaining traction online, particularly among users on Reddit, suggesting that the recently released Assassin`s Creed Shadows may have undergone substantial content cuts during its development phase. Players are sharing their theories about specific elements that seem incomplete or potentially removed from the final game.
In one prominent Reddit post, user hkf999 compiled five key assumptions based on content present in the game. They highlighted concerns about Naoe`s meditation mechanic, which initially triggers flashbacks but quickly becomes a seemingly useless activity offering only skill points. Similarly, the collection of pages within temples feels disconnected and is speculated by hkf999 to have originally been part of a larger, more complex puzzle system.
The same user also noted that the player hideout feels underdeveloped and lacks the purpose and small activities found in similar locations in previous Assassin`s Creed titles. Animus segments are perceived as feeling hastily integrated rather than being a core, fleshed-out part of the game experience, unlike in earlier franchise entries. Furthermore, hkf999 expressed dissatisfaction with the game`s third act, which appears significantly compressed, especially when compared to the more extensive second act. In the comments section of such discussions, other players have pointed out details like flags in different zones, theorizing they might be remnants of a planned faction system that was cut. Naoe`s specific animation for riding a horse while standing is also speculated to potentially relate to a removed combat or assassination move.
Assassin`s Creed Shadows launched on March 20, 2025, and is available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. The game transports players to feudal Japan, allowing them to switch between two protagonists: the African samurai Yasuke and the shinobi Naoe. The title has received generally positive reviews, often praised for its atmospheric setting, visual design, and refinements to the combat system.