People Are Streaming Assassin's Creed Shadows a Month Ahead of Its Official Release Date

Assassin's Creed Shadows, slated for release on March 20, 2025, has suffered a significant leak. Images and gameplay footage surfaced online via social media and streaming platforms, a month ahead of its official launch. Removed posts on various sites, including a U.S. auction site where multiple copies were reportedly sold for $100 each, point to the source of the leak. While Twitch streams showcasing the game appeared, they were swiftly taken down. Ubisoft has been contacted for comment by IGN.

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This leak presents a significant challenge for Ubisoft, a company already facing headwinds with Assassin's Creed Shadows. Despite these difficulties, Ubisoft recently reported strong preorder numbers for the game, comparing them favorably to Assassin's Creed Odyssey. CEO Yves Guillemot expressed confidence, highlighting positive early previews praising the narrative, immersive experience, dual protagonist approach, and overall gameplay. He commended the development team's dedication to delivering the franchise's most ambitious installment yet.

The game's release date has been pushed back multiple times, originally planned 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 position as the first full Assassin's Creed game since 2020, its highly anticipated Japan setting, and the company's recent financial struggles and investor concerns.

The game's promotional period has been marred by several controversies. These include apologies for inaccuracies in its depiction of Japan, unauthorized use of a historical recreation group's flag, and the removal of a collectible statue by PureArts due to its insensitive design.