Assassin's Creed DLC Leak Reveals New Gameplay Features

Assassin's Creed Shadows' First DLC, "Claws of Awaji," Leaks on Steam

Details regarding the upcoming "Claws of Awaji" expansion for Assassin's Creed Shadows have reportedly surfaced via a now-removed Steam update, according to Insider Gaming. This first DLC for the highly anticipated title will introduce a new region, weapon type, skills, gear, and a substantial amount of additional gameplay.

Assassin's Creed Shadows, set in 16th-century feudal Japan, marks the franchise's debut in East Asia. Players will control dual protagonists, the Samurai Yasuke and the Shinobi Naoe, navigating a turbulent historical period. The game's development has been fraught with challenges, including negative feedback and multiple delays. The latest postponement pushed the launch date to March 20, 2025.

The leaked Steam update revealed that "Claws of Awaji" will provide over 10 hours of new content. Furthermore, pre-ordering the game will grant access to both the DLC and a bonus mission. This leak follows the recent delay announcement, adding another layer to the game's complex pre-release journey.

The Delay and Ubisoft's Uncertain Future

The "Claws of Awaji" leak coincided with Ubisoft's confirmation of yet another delay for Assassin's Creed Shadows. Initially slated for November 15, 2024, the release was first moved to February 14, 2025, and then again to March 20, 2025, to allow for further polishing and refinement. This news comes amidst rumors of a potential Tencent buyout of Ubisoft, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the company's future. Recent underperformance of titles like XDefiant and Star Wars Outlaws has cast a shadow over Ubisoft's financial prospects.