Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed Shadows is set to launch on Nintendo Switch 2 on December 2, 2025, bringing the feudal Japan adventure to the hybrid console with optimized performance and exclusive features. The game, which debuted on other platforms in March 2025, features dual protagonists Yasuke and Naoe in a well-received open-world experience. Players can expect a stable 30fps frame rate and cross-progression support.
Release Details
Assassin's Creed Shadows, the latest entry in the long-running series, originally launched on other platforms in March 2025 after several delays. Set in 16th century feudal Japan, it follows the stories of samurai Yasuke and shinobi Fujibayashi Naoe as they navigate a chaotic open world. The game earned praise, with Eurogamer's review awarding it four stars and describing it as "majestic in scope, impressive in detail."
The Switch 2 version, arriving on December 2, 2025, includes all updates released for the game to date, excluding the upcoming Claws of Awaji expansion planned for 2026. Ubisoft has confirmed that future updates will sync with those on other platforms, including ongoing optimizations tailored for the console.
Technical Optimizations
To ensure smooth performance on Switch 2, Ubisoft performed extensive code-level work to adapt the game's architecture. The title targets a stable 30fps in both docked and handheld modes. It uses baked global illumination instead of ray-traced support to manage RAM constraints, while adjusting level of detail (LOD), draw distances, texture resolution, and element loading. In densely populated areas, fewer NPCs appear to maintain gameplay fluidity, though environmental details remain largely preserved. DLSS technology enhances performance further.
Handheld mode includes tweaks to image quality, draw distance, and LOD to accommodate GPU limitations, alongside support for variable refresh rates and HDR. Ubisoft emphasized that these changes streamline technical aspects without compromising the core experience or game's richness.
Switch 2-Specific Features
Exclusive to Switch 2 are touch screen controls for navigating maps and menus, enhancing accessibility. Cross-progression via Ubisoft Connect allows seamless transfers from other platforms, enabling players to continue their adventures across devices. As the release approaches, Ubisoft continues to refine console-specific improvements, including potential keyboard and mouse support when docked.