Exciting updates for Assassin’s Creed Shadows reveal a postponed release date of February 14, 2025, as Ubisoft aims to enhance player experience. While the Season Pass is discontinued, the first expansion will still launch. The newly named Animus Hub will introduce cosmetic items, mini Battle Passes, and tradeable Isu Coins. Despite concerns over microtransactions, Ubisoft assures that essential content will remain free. Fans can pre-order the game for €69.99 at Fnac, with a loyalty credit included.
Exciting Developments in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
We were all set to dive into Assassin’s Creed Shadows, but the release has been pushed back to February 14, 2025. This delay seems to be a strategic choice by Ubisoft, as the developers were reportedly in favor of this decision, ultimately benefiting players in the long run. Although the Season Pass has been scrapped, the first expansion will still be released, yet it’s crucial for the publisher to address the ongoing microtransactions that have been a staple in many previous titles, especially through the Animus Store.
Unveiling the Animus Hub
Recently, discussions have shifted toward the monetization strategies surrounding the newly branded Animus Hub, formerly known as Assassin’s Creed Infinity. Officially introduced in September 2022, details have been scarce, but rumors have been circulating. At the start of this year, Tom Henderson revealed that the hub would feature a shop for cosmetic items, potentially replacing previous systems. While it would be ideal for all cosmetics to be unlockable through gameplay, the reality is that such an era seems to have passed.
Henderson also hinted at the introduction of mini Battle Passes that would include narrative content, which could be a mixed bag for fans. However, the concept of a steady stream of content to deepen our immersion in the Assassin’s Creed universe is appealing. Recently, the hub was renamed to Animus Hub, and it is set to launch alongside AC Shadows. Some content has already leaked, including visuals that were quickly removed due to DMCA actions, prompting a response from the publisher.
A user named Thorites shared multiple visuals, with only two remaining online: one depicting the avatar of Yasuke in the loading area of the Animus Hub, and the other showcasing the design of Isu Coins. These coins, resembling Helix Credits, will function as a tradeable currency within the hub and can be earned through gameplay. The game appears to follow a traditional live service model, launching with Season 1 titled Eye in the Dark, which includes a Battle Pass featuring 20 levels and allowing players to earn a total of 9,050 Isu Coins, along with 22 units of two new materials: Tatara Coal and Lacquered Metal.
The cosmetic items available have garnered particular interest, as they have been confirmed visually and are quite stylish. It seems that Helix Credits will still play a role, allowing players to purchase skins for their spy network members, creatively themed around fire. Notable animal skins include a blue puppy, a pink kitten, a green fawn, and a yellow piglet. Additionally, known items such as the various Sekiryū packs are expected to be available for separate purchase. Partnerships with brands like Red Bull, VISA, Intel, and BAPE will also provide exclusive decorative items for the Hideout.
Further insights from Tom Henderson revealed that he was aware of three additional Battle Passes, titled The Hidden Network, The Last Ronin, and In The Shadows, each containing 20 levels. An early leaker on Discord mentioned a “Y1S1 Premium Pass,” hinting that all content might not be free, although it seems that is not the case. A representative from Ubisoft addressed concerns on the franchise’s Reddit page, reassuring players that playable content and rewards won’t come at a cost.
However, no mention of microtransactions was made, raising questions. While regular free updates are welcome, it’s crucial to ensure that developers are compensated for their work, and there’s no obligation for players to spend. It remains to be seen if features akin to Reda’s Thousand Eyes Shop will allow players to earn items simply through gameplay. Additionally, it is likely that seasonal content will only be available for a limited time, prompting players to return frequently. We hope that essential narrative elements won’t be lost forever once their availability expires.
In conclusion, anticipation is high for the launch of Animus Hub and its integration with Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Fans can pre-order the game for €69.99 at Fnac, with a €10 credit to their loyalty account.
Also read: RUMOR about Assassin’s Creed Shadows: a game mode introduced with Unity is making a comeback