Ubisoft Postpones "Assassin’s Creed Shadows" Release to Ensure Quality

01/13/2025

In a strategic move, French video game publisher Ubisoft has announced a second delay for the upcoming installment of its popular "Assassin’s Creed" series. The new release date for "Assassin’s Creed Shadows" is set for March 20, 2024, pushing it back from its original November 15, 2024, launch. This adjustment has led to a revision in the company's financial forecasts but aligns with industry practices where initial player impressions are crucial. The delay aims to refine gameplay and address concerns raised by early footage, ensuring the game meets high-quality standards.

Details of the Delay and Its Implications

In the vibrant world of gaming, timing can be everything. Ubisoft faced a critical decision when deciding to push back the release of "Assassin’s Creed Shadows." Initially scheduled for November 15, 2024, the game was first delayed to February 14 before being moved again to March 20. This change places the release just days before the end of Ubisoft's fiscal year. According to CEO Yves Guillemot, this extra time will allow developers to incorporate feedback gathered over the past three months, enhancing the final product.

The decision comes in the wake of last August's problematic release of "Star Wars: Outlaws," which suffered from numerous bugs that impacted sales. Early footage of "Shadows" had also sparked concerns about character animations, particularly one clip showing a horse seemingly skating rather than walking. However, updated images released after the first delay have reassured many fans.

Beyond technical issues, the game has faced cultural controversy due to its portrayal of Yasuke, a black samurai based on a real historical figure from feudal Japan. Despite criticism, Ubisoft has maintained Yasuke as one of the playable protagonists. Industry experts like Benoit Reinier, a former games journalist, noted that delays are not uncommon and can offer significant benefits, especially in refining animations and eliminating bugs. As Reinier emphasized, "Late is just for a little while. Suck is forever."

Financially, the delay has taken a toll on Ubisoft. CEO Guillemot reported that the initial three-month postponement cost the company approximately 20 million euros. Additionally, the company's share price has dropped significantly over the past year, reflecting broader business challenges. For the development team, this extension means more time spent in the intense pre-release phase known as "crunch," but ultimately, the goal remains to deliver a polished and enjoyable game.

For Ubisoft, perfecting "Assassin’s Creed Shadows" is essential. The company has faced criticism for releasing visibly unfinished games in the past, notably with "Star Wars: Outlaws." A successful blockbuster release could not only restore its image but also provide breathing room amid ongoing business struggles. As Reinier pointed out, gamers' high expectations have driven Ubisoft to prioritize quality, making this release a pivotal moment for the company's future.

From a journalistic perspective, this delay underscores the delicate balance between meeting deadlines and delivering a top-tier product. It highlights the importance of listening to community feedback and the potential long-term benefits of prioritizing quality over speed. For readers, it serves as a reminder that sometimes, waiting for perfection can lead to a more rewarding experience.