Ubisoft Cancels Early Access for 'Assassin's Creed Shadows'

Ubisoft Halts Assassin's Creed Shadows Early Access and Disbands Prince of Persia Team

Ubisoft's recent struggles with game releases have led to significant changes. The early access release for Assassin's Creed Shadows, previously offered with the Collector's Edition, has been canceled. Furthermore, the development team behind Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown has been dissolved.

Assassin's Creed Shadows: Early Access Cancellation and Price Reduction

Ubisoft confirmed the cancellation of Assassin's Creed Shadows' early access via a Discord Q&A. The game, originally slated for early access for Collector's Edition purchasers, will now launch simultaneously for all on February 14, 2025, for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. This delay, along with the early access cancellation, follows a previously announced release date postponement.

In addition to the early access cancellation, Ubisoft has scrapped plans for season passes and reduced the price of the Assassin's Creed Shadows Collector's Edition from $280 to $230. The Collector's Edition will still include the artbook, steelbook, figurine, and other previously announced items. Rumors persist about a potential co-op mode featuring Naoe and Yasuke, but this remains unconfirmed. Insider Gaming suggests the early access cancellation stems from challenges in maintaining historical accuracy and cultural representation, factors also contributing to the release date delay.

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown Team Disbanded

Ubisoft Montpellier's team responsible for Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown has been disbanded. Despite positive critical reception, the decision, reported by Origami, is attributed to the game failing to meet sales expectations. While specific sales figures haven't been released, Ubisoft has acknowledged disappointment with the game's performance.

Abdelhak Elguess, senior producer of Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, expressed pride in the team's work and confidence in the game's long-term success in a statement to IGN. He confirmed the completion of the post-launch roadmap, including DLC and free content updates. The team's focus now shifts to expanding the game's reach to new platforms, including a Mac release anticipated this winter. Elguess stated that most team members have transitioned to other projects within Ubisoft, and the company remains committed to future Prince of Persia titles.