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ASSASSIN'S CREED SHADOWS' ANVIL ENGINE WOWS ON PS5, SERIES X

Mar 18, 2025 5:00 PM

Assassin's Creed Shadows takes a bold leap in the franchise by exclusively utilizing the latest Anvil engine tailored for next-gen consoles, enhancing gameplay with ray-traced global illumination, procedural weather, and advanced physics. This title leaves behind past-generation consoles, allowing for a deeper exploration of feudal Japan. However, varying performance modes across PS5, Xbox Series X, and Series S lead to different experiences, especially with the Series S showing notable cutbacks in visual fidelity.

The tech enhancements are significant, especially the introduction of ray tracing, which enriches lighting and shadow effects. Gameplay is further enhanced by realistic physics simulations, bringing environmental interactions to life. The Anvil engine also optimizes terrain streaming, although some compromises, like lower-quality textures on Series S, affect the overall experience. The performance modes available on PS5 and Series X offer a balance between visual fidelity and responsiveness, making Shadows a standout title in the series.

What new features can we expect from Assassin's Creed Shadows on next-gen consoles?

Players can look forward to impressive advancements such as ray-traced global illumination, enhanced physics-based weather systems, and destructible environments. These features elevate the gameplay and visual experience, making full use of the power of current-generation consoles.

Assassin's Creed Shadows is the next major installment in the beloved franchise, following the critically acclaimed Assassin's Creed Mirage. Set in the rich historical context of feudal Japan, the game aims to immerse players in a vibrant and dynamic world with deep cultural intricacies. With its new engine and technological advancements, Shadows is poised to redefine the gameplay experience for both newcomers and long-time fans of the series.



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Alex Riverton

Alex Riverton is a seasoned journalist with over a decade of experience in the gaming industry. Known for their in-depth analysis and hands-on previews, Alex has built a reputation for insightful commentary on gameplay mechanics and storytelling in videogames.

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