In a surprising turn of events, physical copies of Assassin’s Creed Shadows have surfaced nearly a month before their official release date. Social media platforms are abuzz with images, gameplay clips, and various insights into the game, as eager fans share their finds. Reports indicate that copies have been listed for sale on Facebook Marketplace, with some sellers even offering multiple units on Mercari, as highlighted by TheGamer.
Gameplay footage has begun to appear on platforms like Twitch, showcasing an early version of the game. While Ubisoft is actively working to remove this content, it remains accessible for those determined to catch a glimpse. To maintain the element of surprise, we will refrain from providing direct links to these leaks.
Development Challenges and Community Response
According to discussions on Reddit, the leaked version is described as an “old build,” which lacks several enhancements that were anticipated following the game’s delay from its initial 2024 launch window. This is not entirely unexpected, considering that the physical discs would have been produced weeks or even months ago, leaving developers to finalize the game right up until its release. In today’s digital landscape, it’s common for developers to implement last-minute updates, often delivered through a day-one patch that aims to ensure the game meets players’ expectations upon arrival.
This situation presents a significant challenge for Ubisoft, particularly given the tumultuous journey of Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Since its announcement, the game has faced a series of hurdles, including backlash over the inclusion of the Black samurai Yasuke, various internal missteps, and a series of delays that have pushed its release further into the year. In light of these ongoing issues, the emergence of leaks feels almost like an inevitable twist in this saga.
In a recent message shared on X, Ubisoft addressed the situation, acknowledging the premature access some players have gained to the game. The company stated, “We are aware players have accessed Assassin’s Creed Shadows ahead of its official release. The development team is still working on patches to prepare the experience for launch, and any footage shared does not represent the final quality of the game.” They further urged the community to refrain from spoiling the experience for others, expressing gratitude to those who have already taken steps to protect against spoilers.
