Ubisoft has officially announced that Assassin’s Creed Shadows will launch on December 2, 2025, alongside the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. This marks the first time a mainline Assassin’s Creed title debuts simultaneously on Nintendo’s platform and next-generation consoles, signaling a new era for portable gaming performance.
A Landmark Entry in the Assassin’s Creed Franchise
Set in Feudal Japan, Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces two protagonists — Naoe, a stealthy shinobi assassin, and Yasuke, a legendary African samurai inspired by real historical accounts. The dual-character system lets players switch between stealth and combat-heavy playstyles, offering unprecedented versatility within the franchise.
Built for Next-Gen Power, Optimized for Switch 2
According to Ubisoft, the Switch 2 version is powered by a custom AnvilNext Engine build optimized for the hybrid console. Early reports suggest support for 60 FPS performance, ray-traced lighting, and DLSS-like upscaling, matching visuals close to the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X versions. The handheld mode is said to maintain stable performance without sacrificing detail — a significant leap for Nintendo hardware.
Exclusive Features and Cloud Saves
The Nintendo version will reportedly include cross-save support with Ubisoft Connect, enabling seamless progression between platforms. Additionally, Ubisoft teased potential Switch-exclusive missions and amiibo functionality, though official details remain under wraps.
The Global Launch Strategy
Assassin’s Creed Shadows will release simultaneously worldwide on December 2, 2025, across Switch 2, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Pre-orders begin November 5 on the Ubisoft Store and Nintendo eShop, with deluxe and collector’s editions including special armor sets and artbooks.
Ubisoft’s Expanding Commitment to Nintendo
This move further strengthens Ubisoft’s relationship with Nintendo, following the success of Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope. The publisher’s confidence in bringing a massive open-world title to the Switch 2 highlights the system’s rumored hardware advancements and growing appeal among AAA developers.
What to Expect Next
A new gameplay trailer and Switch 2-specific performance showcase are expected in mid-November, likely during a Nintendo Direct presentation. Fans can anticipate a deep dive into the game’s stealth mechanics, open-world design, and the historical recreation of Japan’s Sengoku period.