Early Leaks Surface for Assassin's Creed Shadows, a Month Before Launch

Reports indicate that Assassin's Creed Shadows, slated for release on March 20, 2025, has experienced unauthorized early distribution. Social media posts, now removed, showcased gameplay and images, allegedly sourced from an online marketplace. TheGamer further reported listings on a U.S. auction site, with multiple copies sold for $100 each. VGC confirmed the appearance of several Twitch streams displaying the game, though these have since been taken down. Ubisoft has been contacted for comment by IGN.

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This leak presents a significant challenge for Ubisoft, which has faced numerous setbacks with Assassin's Creed Shadows since its announcement. Despite these difficulties, the company recently asserted strong preorder numbers, comparing them favorably to Assassin's Creed Odyssey.

Ubisoft's CEO, Yves Guillemot, expressed confidence, highlighting positive early feedback praising the narrative, immersive experience, and dual protagonist gameplay. He commended the development team's dedication to delivering the franchise's most ambitious title yet.

The game's release date has seen multiple revisions, originally slated for November, then February 14th, before settling on the current March 20th launch. The success of Assassin's Creed Shadows is crucial for Ubisoft, given its recent struggles, investor concerns, and the game's status as the first full Assassin's Creed title since 2020 and the long-awaited Japan-set installment.

The promotional period has been marred by controversy, including apologies for historical inaccuracies in the depiction of Japan and unauthorized use of a historical recreation group's flag. Further, collectible figure maker PureArts withdrew an Assassin's Creed Shadows statue due to its perceived insensitive design.