Ubisoft has recently unveiled Assassin’s Creed Shadows, the newest entry in its iconic open-world action-adventure series, set against the backdrop of feudal Japan. Players will immerse themselves in the politically charged narrative that centers around two protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, as they navigate a mysterious organization. In contrast, its predecessor, Mirage, stretches back to Baghdad, offering the origin story of Basim before the events of Valhalla. By revisiting the franchise’s roots, Mirage brings a fresh focus while maintaining the beloved elements fans adore.
This piece delves into the similarities and differences between Assassin’s Creed Shadows and Mirage, providing insights into what makes each title distinct yet interconnected.
Similarities Between Assassin’s Creed Shadows and Mirage
1) Core Gameplay Loop
As integral parts of the same franchise, both Shadows and Mirage share a foundational gameplay structure that emphasizes exploration and action. Stealth mechanics play a pivotal role, especially in Mirage, while combat remains an integral feature. Players can expect a blend of silent eliminations and intense melee confrontations as they engage with the expansive game environment.
2) Open World Exploration
Both games offer players vast open worlds to explore once they gain freedom within the game. Whether you’re dismantling enemy outposts or hunting for collectibles, players can synchronize waypoints to familiarize themselves with their surroundings, enhancing the exploration experience. This emphasis on world-building allows for immersive gameplay.
3) Character Customization
In both games, character customization is a key feature, allowing players to unlock distinct outfits. Mirage offers a selection of costumes that not only provide aesthetic appeal but some also pay homage to earlier titles. While Shadows features a broader array of armor sets that impact both appearance and gameplay stats, it also allows further customization, enabling players to maintain preferred buffs while changing the visual style of their gear.
Differences Between Assassin’s Creed Shadows and Mirage
1) Setting
Assassin’s Creed Shadows transports players to the intricate world of Feudal Japan in 1579, marked by power struggles among Shoguns and warlords, including the infamous Oda Nobunaga. The interaction between various factions, such as Portuguese traders, introduces rich political dynamics to the storyline. Conversely, Mirage is set in ninth-century Baghdad, during the zenith of the Abbasid Caliphate, serving as a prelude to the events of Valhalla.
2) Protagonists
In Shadows, players can navigate the world through two protagonists: Naoe, a stealthy ninja, and Yasuke, an African Samurai entangled in the service of Oda Nobunaga. This dual-character system reminiscent of Syndicate adds variety to gameplay. In contrast, Mirage centers exclusively on Basim ibn Is’haq, as players witness his evolution into a member of the Assassin Order.
3) Playtime Expectations
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is poised to provide a comprehensive RPG experience akin to previous titles such as Origins and Valhalla, with an estimated 35 to 40 hours of gameplay dedicated to the main narrative, bolstered by numerous side quests. On the other hand, Mirage offers a more streamlined journey, approximating around 16 hours to complete its key storyline, which could be ideal for players with limited gaming time.