Ubisoft Reports Strong Preorders for Assassin's Creed Shadows

Ubisoft maintains that its upcoming open-world adventure Assassin's Creed Shadows is seeing robust preorder numbers despite a rocky development cycle and marketing challenges.

The embattled publisher revealed in its recent financial report that "preorders are performing solidly, matching the pace of Assassin's Creed Odyssey - the franchise's second most successful installment."

CEO Yves Guillemot reinforced this optimism, stating: "Our team is wholly dedicated to delivering Assassin’s Creed Shadows on March 20. Early feedback highlights the compelling narrative and immersive world-building, with both protagonists bringing distinct yet complementary gameplay styles."

Originally targeting a November release, Shadows faced two delays - first to February 14, then to its current March 20 launch date. This postponement means players would have been experiencing the game tomorrow under the previous schedule.

The stakes are exceptionally high for this Japan-set installment. Not only does it mark the franchise's first full mainline entry since 2020, but Ubisoft is counting on its success following recent commercial disappointments and shareholder concerns.

Despite the financial optimism, Shadows' marketing campaign has encountered multiple controversies. The development team has issued apologies for historical inaccuracies in its portrayal of feudal Japan, as well as the unauthorized use of a historical recreation group's flag.

Merchandise manufacturer PureArts further complicated matters by withdrawing a collectible statue due to design criticisms, compounding fan frustration amplified by the dual delays.