# Ubisoft Delays Assassin’s Creed Shadows Once More: Fans Will Wait Until March 2025
In a surprising update on January 9, Ubisoft announced that the launch of its much-anticipated title, *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*, has been postponed again. Initially scheduled for February 14, 2025, the game will now debut on March 20, 2025. This marks another setback for the newest entry in the *Assassin’s Creed* series, which has already undergone multiple delays throughout its development process.
The announcement was made through an official press release and shared on various social media channels associated with the franchise. Ubisoft indicated that its dedication to delivering a top-notch gameplay experience was the main reason behind the delay, explaining that the extra development time would permit the team to incorporate player input and refine the game further.
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## **Reasons Behind the Delay**
Ubisoft’s press release clarifies that the choice to postpone *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* was taken to ensure a “compelling Day 1 experience” for players. The company highlighted that the additional month will enable the development team to enhance the game, respond to input from recent playtests, and improve the launch conditions.
> “As part of our dedication to gameplay quality and ensuring an engaging Day 1 experience, it was decided to allow *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* an extra month of development,” the statement mentioned. “This additional time will enable the team to more effectively integrate player feedback collected over the past three months and establish optimal launch conditions by continuing to collaborate closely with the increasingly supportive *Assassin’s Creed* community.”
This strategy corresponds with Ubisoft’s recent initiatives to prioritize quality over hurried releases, suggesting that the company has taken lessons from prior critiques of glitchy or incomplete launches.
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## **Excitement Surrounding Assassin’s Creed Shadows**
*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* stands as one of the most awaited additions to the iconic franchise, largely because of its unique setting in feudal Japan. Fans have long desired a Japan-themed *Assassin’s Creed* title, and Ubisoft has finally answered their call with *Shadows*. The game is set to delve into the rich culture, history, and mythology of Japan, allowing players to step into the role of a shinobi assassin maneuvering through a realm of samurai, shoguns, and political intrigue.
Trailers and preliminary gameplay footage have highlighted breathtaking visuals, intricate combat systems, and a rich narrative blending historical facts with the franchise’s signature fictional elements. Yet, with substantial anticipation arises significant pressure, and Ubisoft appears keen to meet the elevated expectations of its audience.
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## **Consequences for Ubisoft’s Financial Forecast**
The postponement of *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is not merely a letdown for fans—it also poses notable repercussions for Ubisoft’s financial outlook. The game was anticipated to be a key revenue generator for the company in the 2024-2025 fiscal year, but the new launch date leaves minimal time for it to make a significant impact prior to the fiscal year concluding in April.
Facing financial hurdles in recent years, Ubisoft has already revealed plans to execute cost-reduction strategies amounting to €200 million. This includes shuttering three studios and canceling various projects, such as the multiplayer shooter *XDefiant*. The delay of *Shadows* could further jeopardize Ubisoft’s financial situation, potentially resulting in additional layoffs or restructuring.
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## **Community Feedback: Disappointment and Acceptance**
The announcement of the delay has provoked mixed responses from the *Assassin’s Creed* fanbase. While some expressed dissatisfaction at the extended wait for a title they’ve been eagerly awaiting, others showed more understanding, stressing the necessity for a polished and bug-free experience.
Ubisoft’s choice to emphasize quality over speed has garnered praise from some, particularly amid recent industry disputes over rushed game launches. Examples like *Cyberpunk 2077* and *Battlefield 2042* have illustrated the consequences of releasing a game prematurely, and Ubisoft seems determined to avoid similar pitfalls.
On social media, the official *Assassin’s Creed* Twitter account reassured fans that the delay would ultimately enhance the gameplay experience. “We want to use this additional development time to polish the game even further,” the account confirmed.
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## **Looking Ahead for Ubisoft**
The postponement of *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is part of a broader strategic transformation for Ubisoft. The company has been reassessing its approach to game development and release timelines, aiming to concentrate on fewer yet higher-quality titles. This strategy aims to restore player trust and improve the overall reputation of the company, which has been marred by past controversies and underwhelming game releases.
Moving forward, Ubisoft will need to balance its commitment to quality with the financial realities of the gaming market. The success of *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* will be vital not only