Ubisoft has officially delayed the release of its much-anticipated game, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, originally slated for 12 November 2024. The new release date is now set for 14 February 2025. This decision follows the underwhelming performance of Star Wars Outlaws, another major title from the studio, which experienced a mixed reception due to technical issues upon launch.
Marc-Alexis Cote, the executive producer of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, emphasized the need for more time to “polish and refine the experience.” Ubisoft has acknowledged the disappointment from fans but reassured them that the delay is necessary to deliver a top-quality product.
Ubisoft’s investor report further outlined how lessons from the Star Wars Outlaws release influenced the decision. Despite receiving favorable reviews initially, early players encountered various bugs and glitches, which contributed to lackluster sales. Ubisoft’s shares fell to their lowest point in a decade at 11.32 euros. The financial dip triggered calls from a minority investor to either take the company private or seek acquisition.
Ubisoft co-founder Yves Guillemot explained that the delay in Assassin’s Creed Shadows was closely tied to the firm’s underwhelming second-quarter performance. However, he reaffirmed Ubisoft’s dedication to creating enjoyable experiences for players, promising to make Assassin’s Creed Shadows, the first in the series to be set in Japan, a standout title. Pre-order customers will receive refunds, along with a free expansion for those who place new pre-orders.
While the delay moves the launch beyond the critical holiday season, Ubisoft is hopeful that the extra development time will result in a stronger product and better sales performance come February 2025.
