Assassin's Creed Shadows players won't have access to all of the game's day-one missions unless they have a Season Pass or preorder the game. Ubisoft, the game's developer, has locked one mission behind the Season Pass and another behind a preorder bonus.
As usual, Shadows will launch in several editions: Standard ($69.99), Gold ($109.99), Ultimate ($129.99), and Collector's ($279.99). To get both additional missions on launch day, players must preorder the Gold Edition or higher.
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Preorder and Season Pass Details
Preordering the game does not add extra cost but requires a commitment to buy. This means one mission is easier to obtain. However, the Season Pass, which unlocks the other mission, is only available in the pricier versions of the game. The Season Pass alone costs at least $40. Ubisoft may sell the Season Pass separately later, likely for $40, but this is not yet confirmed.
Ubisoft has revealed little about the two missions. The preorder bonus mission is called "Thrown to the Dogs," featuring protagonist Naoe with a dog. The Season Pass mission involves infiltrating a secret society.
Comparison to Past Ubisoft Games
This move by Ubisoft isn't new. Fans faced a similar situation with Star Wars Outlaws, another Ubisoft title. When different editions of the game were announced, a mission involving Jabba the Hutt was locked behind the Season Pass. Fans expressed frustration online, but Ubisoft claimed the mission was "optional" and wouldn't significantly affect the main game.
The full reveal of Assassin's Creed Shadows came on May 15, 2024. The game is set in Japan and features two protagonists: the stealthy shinobi Naoe and Yasuke, a historical figure known for his combat skills.
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