The Assassin’s Creed franchise has long been a staple of the gaming industry, evolving over the years to deliver unforgettable historical settings and exhilarating gameplay. Now, Assassin’s Creed Shadows has made history by setting a new milestone—the highest concurrent player count in the series on Steam. However, the game’s release hasn’t been without controversy, and Ubisoft’s stock price has struggled despite the game's success.

A Historic Achievement with a Cloud of Controversy

Assassin’s Creed Shadows has captivated players worldwide, drawing in an unprecedented number of concurrent players on Steam. As of today, the game has reached a peak of 43,499 concurrent players, surpassing the 41,551 peak of Assassin’s Creed Origins and expected to break the record Assassin’s Creed Odyssey this week. Ubisoft also announced that the game has amassed 2 million players since its launch on March 20.

This remarkable feat not only cements its place as one of the most successful entries in the series but also highlights the growing popularity of Ubisoft’s open-world adventures. The game’s immersive setting, compelling storyline, and refined mechanics have contributed to its overwhelming success. However, the launch has been marred by heated discussions surrounding historical accuracy, character representation, and Ubisoft’s handling of microtransactions.

What Makes Assassin’s Creed Shadows Stand Out?

1. A Unique Setting – Set in feudal Japan, Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces players to a world filled with samurai, shinobi, and historical intrigue. The allure of exploring ancient Japan has resonated strongly with fans, making it one of the most anticipated Assassin’s Creed games in years.
2. Dual Protagonists – Players can experience the game through the perspectives of two distinct characters: a skilled shinobi assassin and a formidable samurai warrior. This dual approach adds depth to the narrative and gameplay, allowing for varied playstyles.
3. Enhanced Combat & Stealth Mechanics – Ubisoft has refined the parkour, combat, and stealth systems, making them more fluid and engaging than ever before. The game offers a blend of traditional stealth assassinations and intense samurai duels, giving players multiple ways to approach each challenge.
4. Next-Gen Visuals & Immersive Open World – With stunning graphics and a richly detailed environment, Assassin’s Creed Shadows pushes the boundaries of visual storytelling, fully utilizing next-gen hardware capabilities. From cherry blossom-filled landscapes to meticulously designed castles, every location feels alive and historically authentic.

The Community’s Mixed Reaction

Fans have taken to social media to celebrate Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ success, praising its storytelling, gameplay depth, and breathtaking depiction of feudal Japan. Streamers and content creators have also contributed to the game’s popularity, bringing in new players eager to experience the action firsthand.

However, the game has also faced backlash. Some players have criticized Ubisoft’s representation of historical figures, while others are frustrated by in-game monetization practices. The inclusion of microtransactions in a single-player experience has drawn criticism, with many arguing that it diminishes immersion and player agency.

Ubisoft’s Stock Struggles

Despite Assassin’s Creed Shadows breaking records, Ubisoft has seen its stock price fluctuate. As of this writing, Ubisoft's stock price is ~ $12.53 

Analysts suggest that while the game’s popularity is undeniable, ongoing concerns about the company’s financial health, development pipeline, and player trust could be contributing factors to investor hesitation.

What’s Next for Assassin’s Creed?

With Assassin’s Creed Shadows breaking records, the future remains uncertain for the franchise. Ubisoft’s continued innovation and commitment to historical storytelling suggest that the series will continue to evolve, but the company may need to address community concerns to maintain long-term success.

Ubisoft has also teased future updates, including potential DLC expansions that could further explore Japanese history and legendary figures. If the game’s momentum continues, it could redefine the Assassin’s Creed experience for years to come. However, whether Ubisoft can navigate the controversies and regain player trust remains to be seen.

As Assassin’s Creed Shadows dominates Steam charts and sparks heated discussions among gamers worldwide, one thing is certain—the legacy of the Assassin’s Creed franchise is as complex as ever. Whether you’re a veteran assassin or a newcomer to the series, now is the perfect time to dive into this unforgettable journey, for better or worse.