Ubisoft has added new depth to its ambitious open-world title Assassin’s Creed Shadows with the release of its first major expansion, Claws of Awaji. Launching on September 16, the downloadable content brings fresh narrative arcs, gear, and abilities, giving players a reason to return to the game’s rich depiction of feudal Japan.
The DLC continues Ubisoft’s strategy of supporting its flagship franchises with post-launch content that extends both the story and gameplay. In Claws of Awaji, players are drawn into a conflict centered on the remote island of Awaji, a location that introduces new landscapes to explore, fortified outposts to infiltrate, and unique challenges that build upon the main game’s mechanics. The storyline adds layers of intrigue, focusing on shadowy factions vying for influence and offering players difficult choices that shape their journey.
One of the standout features of Claws of Awaji is its focus on expanding the arsenal available to both protagonists. New gear sets inspired by regional craftsmanship allow for greater customization and tactical variety, while additional weapons open up new combat styles. Complementing this are new abilities that give players creative options for stealth and open confrontation alike. From enhanced parkour maneuvers to more advanced assassination techniques, the DLC strengthens the sense of agency at the heart of the Assassin’s Creed experience.
The setting itself is a highlight. Awaji’s rugged coastal terrain, dense forests, and fortified compounds offer striking visual diversity compared to the base game’s mainland environments. Ubisoft has paid particular attention to environmental storytelling, ensuring that every shrine, village, and ruin tells part of the larger cultural and political story unfolding in this era of Japanese history. For players invested in exploration, the island offers hidden treasures, side quests, and lore-rich details that deepen immersion.
Reception to the DLC so far has been positive, with many praising its ability to build upon the foundation of Shadows without feeling like mere filler. Fans have highlighted the quality of the new quests, which balance high-stakes missions with personal character moments, further developing the dual-protagonist structure that distinguishes Shadows from earlier entries in the franchise.
Ubisoft has positioned Claws of Awaji as the first in a series of planned expansions, signaling a long-term commitment to supporting Assassin’s Creed Shadows well beyond its launch. This aligns with the publisher’s broader push toward live-service elements across its portfolio, where major releases are treated as evolving platforms rather than standalone experiences. By continuing to deliver new stories and content, Ubisoft aims to keep players engaged in the world of Shadows throughout 2025 and beyond.
The release of Claws of Awaji also underscores the enduring appeal of the Assassin’s Creed series, which has reinvented itself repeatedly over the past decade. By situating the franchise in feudal Japan—a setting long requested by fans—Ubisoft has tapped into one of its most compelling historical backdrops yet. The DLC builds on this momentum, enriching the base game with new perspectives and challenges.
For players, Claws of Awaji represents more than just extra content; it is a chance to dive deeper into a world brimming with political intrigue, cultural detail, and fast-paced action. As the saga of Assassin’s Creed Shadows continues to unfold, the expansion sets the stage for what promises to be a long and evolving journey through one of history’s most fascinating eras.
