*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* invites players to delve into a vast open world set in Feudal Japan, but you'll need to complete the prologue before you can fully explore this immersive environment. Let's dive into when you can start your adventure across the landscapes of Japan.
How Long is the Assassin’s Creed Shadows Prologue?
Ubisoft has crafted expansive open worlds for over a decade and a half, but often, players have to endure lengthy introductions before diving into the action. In *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*, you won’t have to wait as long as in some previous titles before you're free to roam Japan.
The game kicks off with a prologue that lays the groundwork for the world and introduces you to the dual protagonists: the Samurai, Yasuke, and the Shinobi, Naoe. This segment not only introduces you to the characters but also to Naoe’s homeland, Iga, setting her on a journey beyond her home region. Expect the prologue, filled with cinematic moments and essential storytelling, to take around an hour and a half to complete.
Once you finish the "From Spark to Flame" Quest and establish your Kakurega (Hideout) at Tomiko’s Homestead, the world of *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* opens up for you to explore freely.
Can You Go Anywhere in Assassin’s Creed Shadows Right Away?
Upon gaining access to the open world, you'll start your journey in Izumi Settsu, one of the nine named regions available at launch. Initially, your quests and activities will be centered around this region before expanding northward to the Yamashiro province.
While the narrative may occasionally tether Naoe and Yasuke to specific locations, you have the freedom to venture into other provinces. However, two key factors might discourage early exploration:
Firstly, the lack of quests and activities in other regions at the beginning of the game means you might not find much to do in these areas. Secondly, *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* incorporates RPG elements, including level requirements for different regions. You can view these on the map; a number in a red diamond indicates that your current level is far below what's recommended for that area. Venturing into these regions prematurely could lead to challenging encounters, where some enemies might be able to defeat you swiftly.
In summary, while you can technically visit higher-level regions early on, it's generally advised to wait until you've reached the appropriate level to ensure a more enjoyable and less frustrating experience.
