Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces a bold new Hideout system, allowing players to fully customize their base of operations.

We all have a checklist when it comes to an Assassin’s Creed game: stealth, a richly detailed setting with a deep, interconnected narrative, and, of course, great characters (well, at least most of the time). So, with Assassin’s Creed Shadows releasing on March 20th, players were naturally expecting just that.

The game is set to launch on March 20. | Image Credit: Ubisoft

However, in a surprising twist, Ubisoft is adding more to the formula and offering something far more ambitious this time around: players will not only experience the thrills of assassination and exploration but also get their own fully customizable hideout.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ Hideout system is a bold step forward for the franchise

The hideout system is looking to become a fundamental feature of the series. | Image Credit: Ubisoft

Yes, you read that right. In Assassin’s Creed Shadows, players will have the opportunity to design and build their very own base of operations (with an acre of land), which can be shaped and personalized throughout the game.

In a recent deep dive from Ubisoft, the game’s systems associate director, Dany admits that this move is “pretty ambitious” and acknowledges that they knew it was a bold step. Sure, it’s a departure from the traditional formula, but it promises to redefine the way we interact with the world and characters.

We knew that if we wanted to make anything new on that front, we had to take a bold step forward. That meant giving players the option to build their homebase with complete freedom.

In this deep dive, Dany actually went deep and explained how the Hideout is changing the game (with various innovative features). For instance, the hideout will be located in the secretive and very picturesque valley of Izumi Settsu, offering players more than just a place to rest.

Unlike past titles, where bases were often static and simply just a place to rest (to take a break from combat or continue the narrative), the Hideout provides much more than that. It offers complete freedom to build and design from scratch, enabling players to showcase their creativity.

From constructing intricate pavilions, laying down pathways, or adding decorative elements (all based on Japanese setting), the possibilities are endless, and no two hideouts will be the same. It’s also not limited to just outside, players can also personalize inside of the buildings as well.

Beyond the creative freedom, the area will also serve a narrative purpose. As players advance in the game and players gain allies, they can interact with these characters. These interactions will add depth to the overall experience (especially connecting with the allies).

Ubisoft’s bold move into the future

Players are looking forward to the game’s release. | Image Credit: Ubisoft

There’s no denying that this hideout system is ambitious and from how Dany explained its many functions, it looks like it will have a profound impact on the game. It has the potential to start a fundamental shift in the Assassin’s Creed series.

Given the studio’s recent track record, this is a big ask, but from the recent gameplay showcase (after delays) and this deep dive, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Even if players are hesitant, Ubisoft is confident that it’s a step in the right direction. We’ll have to wait and see.

If all the details/features work how it is intended, the Hideout will be more than just a new feature. With endless customization options, dynamic ally interactions, and gameplay integration, it promises to be the beating heart of Assassin’s Creed Shadows and perhaps the future of the franchise as a whole.

Even if it doesn’t transcend into one of the defining features of the series, it will certainly set Assassin’s Creed Shadows apart from its predecessors. It has certainly raised the anticipation, unlike one of the protagonists.

In the end, as the release date of March 20th approaches, everyone can’t help but wonder how this bold step forward will redefine the series for years to come.