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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Ubisoft said on September 25, 2024, that Assassin’s Creed Shadows would depart from the traditional Season Pass model. In its announcement, the company said pre-orders would receive the first expansion free and that all players could start the game together on February 14, 2025. That February date was later replaced: VGC reported on January 13, 2025, that the release had been moved to March 20, 2025.
What changed with the Season Pass?
Ubisoft’s September 25, 2024 investor update said it was “departing from the traditional Season Pass model.” Rather than announcing a Season Pass in that update, Ubisoft offered the first expansion free to customers who pre-ordered the game. The statement did not describe the contents or terms of a replacement pass or bundle.
The announcement paired the change with two other decisions: delaying the game to February 14, 2025, to allow more time for polish, and returning to day-one releases on Steam. Ubisoft framed the moves as responses to player feedback and lessons from Star Wars Outlaws. Ubisoft’s official investor update contains the announcement.
Did pre-orders include the first expansion?
Yes, according to Ubisoft’s September announcement: “those who preorder the game will be granted the first expansion for free.” This describes the offer as announced at that time; it does not establish what the expansion costs now, whether it is included in current editions, or what terms apply to a purchase made today.
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#1 Best Overall
- Only at Amazon Limited Edition Content includes the base game and Sekiryu Character Pack
- 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.
- 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.
When did Assassin’s Creed Shadows actually release?
February 14, 2025 was the planned date stated in September 2024, not the eventual release date. On January 13, 2025, VGC reported a further delay to March 20, 2025, saying Ubisoft wanted to incorporate player feedback. The report identified the first expansion as Claws of Awaji, based on a Steam listing that had appeared and then been removed; that is contemporary reporting, not a current official product description. Read VGC’s report on the delay.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What the announcement does—and does not—tell players
The supported takeaway is specific: Ubisoft announced a departure from the traditional Season Pass model and a first-expansion pre-order offer. The announcement does not establish whether later expansions were sold separately, whether Ubisoft subsequently introduced a pass or bundle, or the present contents and pricing of any edition. “Departing” from the traditional model should not be read as proof that no later DLC bundle or pass exists.
Quick Recap
Rank #3
- Only at Amazon Limited Edition Content includes the base game and Sekiryu Character Pack
- 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.
- 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.
Rank #2
- ENTER FEUDAL 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.
- MASTER COMPLEMENTARY PLAYSTYLES - 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 - Travel 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
- BUILD A PLACE TO CALL HOME - 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 buildings layout, decorations, and accessories.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
