7.8/10
Since its release, the game *Shadow* has been the subject of constant controversy and debate, but I believe that anyone who owns it would generally give it a relatively positive review; there is no doubt that this is not a rubbish game.
The main story, spanning around forty hours, serves as the core of the game, bringing together a vast array of quest clusters and side quests. The narrative technique of using notes, rumours and letters as clues to drive the plot forward lends this open-world ARPG a touch of the classic CRPG aesthetic, although this feels slightly incongruous against the backdrop of the Japanese Sengoku period.
Most impressive of all is the combat system, which ranks among the best in the series. The vast array of build options and the ‘three attacks, one counter’ mechanic are both refreshingly innovative, with each of the two characters possessing their own distinct playstyle. The stealth system is equally outstanding; the numerous, meticulously designed assassination routes evoke a sense of returning to the era of *Assassin’s Creed* before it became an RPG.
The story remains the centrepiece. Set against the backdrop of the Japanese Sengoku period—a time of conflict, conspiracy and ambition—the game crafts a remarkably well-rounded and three-dimensional character. Yasuke/弥助, as a figure straddling Eastern and Western cultures, clearly withstands immense trials, whilst the main storyline involving the Shinbakufu/百鬼衆 is uncharacteristically dull, having evidently undergone significant cuts and alterations. Unfortunately, Ubisoft Quebec made a series of poor decisions; their decision to abandon motion capture and facial capture ruined the quality of the majority of the game’s narrative sequences.
Overall, this is a competent, if not excellent, Assassin’s Creed title, and an outstanding ARPG; however, given Ubisoft’s current situation, it has been born at the wrong time and is unable to fulfil the historical mission entrusted to it by the studio.
Translated from another language.
