Ubisoft remains confident in the upcoming release of Assassin's Creed Shadows, reporting strong preorder numbers despite recent setbacks. The publisher's latest financial report indicates preorders are comparable to those of Assassin's Creed Odyssey, a highly successful title in the franchise.
Ubisoft CEO Yves Guillemot expressed unwavering confidence, stating the company is fully focused on the March 20th launch. Initial previews have been largely positive, highlighting the compelling narrative, immersive gameplay, and the impactful contributions of both protagonists to the storyline. Guillemot praised the development team's dedication, emphasizing Assassin's Creed Shadows as the franchise's most ambitious installment yet.
The game's release has faced delays, initially slated for November, then February 14th, and finally settling on March 20th. The title carries significant weight for Ubisoft, marking the long-awaited Japan-set entry and the first full Assassin's Creed game since 2020. Its success is crucial for the publisher following recent underperforming titles and investor concerns.
The promotional period has been marred by controversy. The development team issued apologies for inaccuracies in the game's portrayal of Japan and unauthorized use of a historical group's flag. Further, a collectible statue was pulled from sale due to its insensitive design. These incidents, coupled with the delays, have understandably fueled fan impatience.