When Will Assassin’s Creed Shadows Open World Launch?

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* features an expansive open world set in Feudal Japan, though players won't gain full exploration freedom until completing the prologue. Here's everything you need to know about when the game opens up.

How Long is the Assassin’s Creed Shadows Prologue?

While Ubisoft games typically offer vast open worlds, they're also known for lengthy introductions before granting full access. *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* strikes a balance with a moderately paced prologue.

The prologue establishes the game's setting and introduces dual protagonists Yasuke (the samurai) and Naoe (the shinobi). Players explore Naoe's homeland of Iga through key narrative moments and gameplay tutorials. This opening section combines cinematic sequences with gameplay and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete.

Full open-world access unlocks after completing the "From Spark to Flame" main quest and establishing the Kakurega (Hideout) at Tomiko's Homestead.

Exploring Assassin's Creed Shadows' Open World

After the prologue, players begin their open-world journey in Izumi Settsu province - one of nine regions available at launch. While story missions initially focus on this area, players soon gain access to neighboring Yamashiro province.

Though the game technically allows travel to any location post-prologue, two significant factors restrict premature exploration:

1. Mission Availability: Many regions remain empty of meaningful content until unlocked through story progression.
2. Level Requirements: The map clearly marks higher-level zones with red diamond indicators showing recommended levels. Venturing into these areas too early often results in instant death from stronger enemies.

While the game doesn't physically prevent exploration of high-level zones, doing so typically creates frustrating gameplay experiences until character progression matches the region's difficulty.