Shadows, steel and the call for more – Ubisoft sharpens the blade
If youthought Assassin’s Creed Shadowswas too tame so far, you might now be proven wrong.Ubisoft not only delivers technical improvements with Update 1.0.6, but also massively tightens up the challenge.The brand new “Nightmare” difficulty level is aimed at players who want to put their reflexes to the ultimate test. Between the tactical approach and minimal interface, the result is an almostsurvival-like gaming experience.
Ubisoft is only hinting at what fans can expect. But the scene is expecting radical changes: a virtually disabled user interface, faster and smarter opponents and severe penalties for every misstep. ThismovesShadowsa good deal closer tohardcore role-playing gamesAnd incidentally, the mode makes it clear: there is no room for mistakes – or recklessness – in this Japan.
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Aside from the merciless battles, the update also brings a breath of fresh air to the storylineUbisoft takes the opportunity to place new story elements– including acomplete side missionwith the mysterious newcomer Rufino. The sharp-tongued gunslinger, previously only known from a promo trailer, is now actively involved in the game. In his luggage: a historic flintlock pistol whose power is not only visually impressive
Dubbing actor Robbie Daymond– known from theFantasy phenomenonCritical Role– lends his voice to Rufino, bringing a new depth to the narrative. Players can look forward to a mission that is noticeably different from the usual Japanese setting: more Western-inspired, rougher and tactically more challenging. Ubisoft makes clever use of such characters to incorporate cultural contrasts – an element that has already provided excitement in previous parts of the series
A side note: According to the developers, the release of further free mini-updates is already imminent. Ubisoft is apparently pursuing a clear live service strategy in which regular content updates keep the replay value high. So anyone who thought the zenith had been reached is mistaken – Shadowsis only really picking up now.
