Differences, Prices, and Inclusions of All Assassin’s Creed Shadows Edition

Differences, Prices, and Inclusions of All Assassin’s Creed Shadows Edition

As the release date for Assassin’s Creed Shadows approaches, a variety of game editions have been unveiled, each catering to different preferences and budgets. This tiered approach to game launches is increasingly commonplace in the AAA gaming sector, yet the quality of offerings can vary significantly. For example, the Deluxe Edition of Madden 25 merely packaged the base game with some in-game currency, hardly justifying the price. In contrast, it appears that Assassin’s Creed Shadows aims to offer more substantial features across its various editions, assuming the initial price points don’t alter dramatically.

The anticipation surrounding Assassin’s Creed Shadows heightened recently when its release was postponed from November 15, 2024, to February 14, 2025. This delay has seemingly prompted a revision of the game’s pricing structure. Major platforms, including Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation Store, temporarily withdrew listings for the different editions, opting instead for a wishlist option in place of pre-orders. This change may indicate a reevaluation of what’s included with each game edition, particularly since pre-orders now come with the first expansion at no additional cost—a feature that was previously a paid option. Below, we outline the expected components based on initial plans.

Standard Edition of Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Collector’s Edition Priced at $69.99

Yasuke standing over Naoe in Assassin's Creed Shadows
Image by: Glenn Bunn

Initially, the Assassin’s Creed Shadows Standard Edition was set to include just the base game priced at $69.99. However, due to the delay, it has been reported that players who pre-order will receive the first expansion for free—a pleasant inclusivity not offered prior to the delay. While the expansion may not be ready at the game’s launch, this added content enhances the value of the base edition, making pre-ordering an appealing option for fans already sold on the game.

Contents of the Standard Edition:

Base Game: Assassin’s Creed Shadows

First DLC Expansion*

*Pre-Order Bonus

When considering other editions of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, the Standard Edition serves as a key reference point. The base version is offered at $69.99, and any additional expenses incurred with other editions should be carefully weighed against the extra content they offer. Moreover, it seems likely that various valuable additions in alternate editions will eventually be made available in some capacity, making it prudent to start with the base game before committing further.

Gold Edition of Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Gold Edition Priced at $109.99

Gold Edition of Assassin's Creed Shadows content

The Gold Edition of Assassin’s Creed Shadows is tagged at $109.99 and includes considerable downloadable content (DLC). Beyond the base game, players will receive a Season Pass providing access to two upcoming expansions, an exclusive mission, and the opportunity for three days of early access. While this edition could potentially provide good value in the long run, it’s essential to recognize that it is not always a straightforward deal.

Contents of the Gold Edition:

Base Game: Assassin’s Creed Shadows

First DLC Expansion*

Season Pass

Three-Day Early Access

*Pre-Order Bonus

In comparison to the previous title in the series, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla’s Season Pass—selling separately for $40—provided similar content. For fans eager to explore the expansions, the Gold Edition offers early access; however, those who prefer to wait may not find this expedient approach worthwhile. Given the free expansion included with the Standard Edition when pre-ordered, the value of the Season Pass may diminish. Ubisoft may consider adjusting the price of the Gold Edition or include additional features to equalize its offer. If unchanged, it’s possible the Gold Edition will not present a compelling purchasing rationale after its relisting.

Ultimate Edition of Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Ultimate Edition Priced at $129.99

Ultimate Edition content of Assassin's Creed Shadows

The final digital version highlighted is the Ultimate Edition, priced at $129.99. The additional $20 over the Gold Edition grants players exclusive gear for both protagonists, in-game cosmetics, five mastery points, and a unique filter for the photo mode. While these upgrades may enhance the gaming experience, the value proposition is somewhat subjective, especially in a primarily single-player setting where hideout cosmetics may go unnoticed.

Ultimate Edition Contents:

Base Game: Assassin’s Creed Shadows

First DLC Expansion*

Season Pass

Three-Day Early Access

Sekiryu Character Pack

Sekiryu Hideout Pack

Five Mastery Points

The Red Dragon Filter (Photo Mode)

*Pre-Order Bonus

While the extra equipment and mastery points may offer advantages at the start, players will essentially be paying $20 for a slight advantage. Given the solo nature of the game, the appeal of exclusive hideout cosmetics and filters might not justify the additional cost for many players.

Collector’s Edition of Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Collector’s Edition Priced at $229.99

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For players desiring a tangible collection, the Collector’s Edition of Assassin’s Creed Shadows is available for $229.99 at GameStop. This edition encompasses everything found in the Ultimate Edition, plus collectible extras.

Among its highlighted collectibles are an exquisite 16-inch character statue featuring Naoe and Yasuke, a stylish SteelBook case, and an art book (with pagination inconsistently noted as between 76 and 84 pages). Expect additional items such as a physical world map, wall scroll, and two lithographs showcasing the game’s main characters.

Collector’s Edition Contents:

Base Game: Assassin’s Creed Shadows

First DLC Expansion*

Season Pass

Three-Day Early Access

Sekiryu Character Pack

Sekiryu Hideout Pack

Five Mastery Points

The Red Dragon Filter (Photo Mode)

Naoe and Yasuke Statue

SteelBook Case

Collector’s Art Book

Naoe’s Katana Tsuba

AC Shadows World Map

Wall Scroll

Two Sumi-e Lithographs

*Pre-Order Bonus

Ultimately, the worth of the Collector’s Edition will hinge on individual preferences, particularly how dedicated fans may feel toward the series. Interestingly, this edition was initially priced at $279.99 before the game’s delay—a possible indication of future price adjustments for all editions of the game once they are reintroduced to the marketplace. This revision could be a direct result of the first DLC expansion now being offered for free with all pre-orders, suggesting that other editions might see lowered pricing as well.

Source: GameStop

Further Reading: Source & Images

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