Lecture Notes: Review of "Assassin's Creed Shadows"

Introduction

• Host: Jake from Gameranx
• Show: "Before You Buy"
• Game: "Assassin's Creed Shadows"
• General Reception: Mixed feelings; described as "just fine"

Overall Impressions

• Technical Improvement over "Assassin's Creed Valhalla"
  • Better performance; fewer glitches
  • Enhanced stealth mechanics
  • Beautiful world design
• Criticisms
  • Repetitive quests and side activities
  • Rough story sections; lack of compelling narrative
  • Personal engagement: "fine" isn't good enough for everyone

Gameplay Features

• Playable Characters
  • Two main characters: Naoe (Shinobi) and Yasuke (Samurai)
  • Distinct play styles for each character
  • Naoe: Fast, stealth-focused, traditional "Assassin's Creed" mechanics
  • Yasuke: Strong, combat-focused, limited in climbing and stealth
• Character Progression
  • Skill points through exploring temples
  • Yasuke has alternative progression due to limited climbing
• Stealth Mechanics
  • Improved over previous games
  • New mechanics: prone crawling, shinobi-proof floors, traps
  • Best stealth since "Assassin's Creed Origins"

World Design

• Setting: Japan, alive and varied
• Visuals and atmosphere compared to "Ghost of Tsushima"
• Dynamic environment changes: seasons, population, cities

Combat and Progression

• Combat System: Simple but satisfying
  • Different weapon types, heavy/light attacks, parries
  • Special abilities and ally assists
• Progression: Skill trees and knowledge ranks
  • Skill unlocks tied to exploration activities
  • Criticism: Activities can feel like busy work

Story and Characters

• Storytelling: Focused but problematic
  • Lengthy dialogue sequences
  • Poor voice acting and awkward dialogue
  • Main characters lack depth and likability

Final Thoughts

• Mixed experience with some highlights
  • Stunning world design and improved stealth
  • Lackluster characters and repetitive missions
  • Player's personal preference will heavily influence enjoyment
• Recommendation: Watch multiple reviews; personal opinions vary greatly

Community Engagement

• Discussion encouraged on player anticipation and experience
• Audience asked to share thoughts on the game in comments section

Conclusion

• Game is polarizing; "most anticipated" vs "worst ever" perceptions
• General advice: Consider personal expectations and preferences before purchasing