Excitement is building for Assassin’s Creed Shadows, with both longtime fans and new players eagerly anticipating its release. After years of speculation and demand, Ubisoft is finally delivering an installment set in Japan, a dream scenario for many in the gaming community. The release date is set for March 20, 2025, and while anticipation is high, fans can immerse themselves in a variety of captivating games while they wait.
Despite its numerous delays, which have moved the launch date, these additional months provide the perfect opportunity for players to explore titles that share similar themes. From captivating open-world samurai RPGs to engaging indie experiences, there is a rich selection of games reminiscent of Shadows that are sure to capture players’ imaginations.
10. Nobunaga’s Ambition: Sphere of Influence (Koei Tecmo)
The journey through Ancient Japan is beautifully depicted in Nobunaga’s Ambition games, particularly in Sphere of Influence. This title combines strategy and role-playing elements, allowing players to immerse themselves in the historical era of Oda Nobunaga during the Sengoku period. Players can build cities, forge alliances, and engage in epic battles, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to dive deeper into the historical context that Assassin’s Creed Shadows will explore.
9. Trek to Yomi (Flying Wild Hog)
A Cinematic Samurai Experience
Trek to Yomi stands out as a visually stunning action title where players assume the role of Hiroki, seeking revenge for his master’s death. The game’s unique black-and-white aesthetic pays homage to legendary Japanese films, reminiscent of Akira Kurosawa’s masterpieces. Its engaging combat against a variety of foes, including supernatural enemies, ensures a captivating experience, blending narrative depth with skill-based gameplay.
8. Way of the Samurai 3 (ACQUIRE Corp.)
An Action-Packed Samurai Game Where Consequences Matter
In a world where choices have significant consequences, Way of the Samurai 3 encourages players to carve their own path in a richly crafted RPG landscape. With its open-world design and multiple endings influenced by player actions, this game offers freedom and depth rarely found in traditional RPGs. The experience is enriched by a morality system and weapon customization, making it an excellent prelude to the themes explored in Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
7. Nioh 2 (Team Ninja)
A Stylish Samurai Soulslike
Nioh 2 serves as a gripping prequel to its predecessor, inviting players into a challenging action RPG set in a fantastical version of feudal Japan. With gameplay refined to present unique mechanics and an engaging narrative, it provides a satisfying challenge for those anticipating Shadows. Nioh 2 stands out not only as a title for action enthusiasts but also as an engaging diversion before the highly anticipated release.
6. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice (FromSoftware)
Known for its unforgiving difficulty, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice showcases breathtaking landscapes and gripping combat. The game’s intricate boss battles and layered storylines make it a worthy investment of time for players eager for a challenge. The artistry and innovation embedded in Sekiro will resonate well with fans waiting for Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
5. Sengoku Dynasty (Superkami)
A Samurai Life Sim
In Sengoku Dynasty, players navigate the life of a peasant striving for greatness during the Sengoku period. Combining elements of survival and strategy, this title allows players to construct their own villages while reclaiming land from rival factions. Whether tackled solo or in co-op mode, this immersive experience offers a dynamic open world perfect for fans seeking a rich narrative to delve into prior to Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
4. Assassin’s Creed Odyssey (Ubisoft)
The Closest Modern Assassin’s Creed Experience
Prior to entering the world of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, consider experiencing Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. While the setting differs, it showcases Ubisoft’s evolving approach to open-world game design. Odyssey presents a plethora of activities and lore that enrich the overarching narrative of the Assassin’s Creed universe, making it a valuable experience as players gear up for Shadows.
3. Rise of the Ronin (Team Ninja)
Another Open-World Samurai RPG
Rise of the Ronin offers a narrative-driven experience that mirrors the historical retellings that fans of Assassin’s Creed adore. Drawing on Team Ninja’s expertise, it weaves an expansive open world brimming with quests, choices, and secrets waiting to be unlocked. For players eager for a bite of the Assassin’s Creed experience, this game stands out as a remarkable prelude to Shadows.
2. Like a Dragon: Ishin! (Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio)
A Phenomenal Spin-Off
Like a Dragon: Ishin! provides a gritty, reimagined tale of 1860s Japan, focusing on Sakamoto Ryoma’s quest for truth amidst chaos. Featuring beloved characters from the Yakuza series in historically inspired roles, players can expect a rich narrative coupled with engaging combat mechanics. This title seamlessly balances life-simulation elements with action RPG gameplay, making it an excellent choice for fans awaiting Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
1. Ghost of Tsushima (Sucker Punch Productions)
Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ Biggest Competition
An iconic entry in the samurai genre, Ghost of Tsushima is often seen as the benchmark against which Assassin’s Creed Shadows is measured. This game offers a stunning open-world experience with engaging melee combat and a narrative steeped in survival and cultural significance. With additional content that expands the story of protagonist Jin, players have ample opportunity to appreciate the depth of this world before diving into Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
For those craving samurai-themed gaming experiences, alternatives like Ghost of Tsushima represent merely a fraction of the exciting titles available. Each option mentioned provides a unique take on the genre, ensuring a fulfilling journey while awaiting the much-anticipated release of Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
Source: PlayStation/YouTube, SEGA Asia(EN)/YouTube
Related Articles:
PlayStation 5 Price Increase: Impact on Europe, UK, and Australia Amid Economic Challenges
0:33
Sony announces PlayStation 5 price increases in UK, Europe, and beyond
0:18
Hands-on Experience and Developer Q&A for Honor of Kings at World GDC 2025
20:02
Leave a Reply ▼