Overview
Get ready, assassins—Ubisoft is dropping Claws of Awaji, the first major expansion for Assassin’s Creed Shadows, on September 16, 2025. This DLC invites players to explore the treacherous beauty of Awaji Island, a new region teeming with secrets, ambushes, and emotional revelations. Following the core game’s massive success, this expansion builds on the story of Naoe and Yasuke with over 10 hours of fresh content.
A New Chapter in Feudal Japan
Claws of Awaji picks up right where the main campaign ends. Naoe is on a personal journey to uncover her family’s buried past, while Yasuke continues to confront rising Templar threats. Together, they navigate the dangerous territory of Awaji Island, a stunning new locale brought to life with vivid landscapes and deadly enemies.
- New setting: Awaji Island—lush, lethal, and layered with mystery.
- New threat: The Sanzoku Ippa, a stealthy faction that outsmarts players with traps and guerilla tactics.
- New weapon: Naoe now wields a Bō, a staff weapon that introduces unique, stylish combat combos.
- New narrative: Deepen your understanding of Naoe’s backstory and uncover hidden connections.
Gameplay Additions That Raise the Stakes
Ubisoft Bordeaux, the studio behind Assassin’s Creed Mirage, has cranked up the tension and immersion. Here’s what’s new in your arsenal and experience:
| Feature | Base Game | Claws of Awaji Expansion |
| Release Date | March 20, 2025 | September 16, 2025 |
| Playable Region | Mainland Japan | Awaji Island |
| Playable Hours | 30–40 hours | 10+ hours |
| Main Weapon (Naoe) | Katana, Kunai | Bō (staff weapon) |
| Enemy Factions | Templars, Shinbakufu | Sanzoku Ippa |
| Max Level Cap | 60 | 80 |
| Game Modes | Core Campaign | New Game Plus, Advanced Skills |
| Price | Full Game | Paid DLC / Free with pre-order |
Enhancements & Features
- New Game Plus Mode: Coming July 29, 2025—replay the entire game with tougher enemies and retained progression.
- Higher Level Cap: Reach level 80 and unlock tier 9 and 10 skills.
- Upgraded Hideouts: Customize and fortify your safe zones for tactical depth.
- Expanded Skill Trees: More abilities to unlock and refine, especially tied to the new Bō mechanics.
Lore and Atmosphere
Claws of Awaji isn’t just about bigger battles—it’s about personal stakes. The storyline focuses heavily on Naoe’s origins, offering emotional layers and tough decisions. Meanwhile, Awaji Island adds vertical terrain, hidden caverns, and dense forests that transform gameplay pacing and stealth strategy.
The Sanzoku Ippa are more than a new faction—they’re a psychological challenge. Known for surprise attacks, poison, and misdirection, they force you to rethink how you engage.
Your Questions Answered (FAQ)
🗓 When does it drop?
September 16, 2025.
💰 Do I have to buy it separately?
Yes—unless you pre-ordered Assassin’s Creed Shadows, in which case it’s free.
🎮 What platforms is it on?
PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Amazon Luna.
📜 How does it connect to the base game?
It follows the events of the main game, expanding Naoe’s personal arc and Yasuke’s war against the Templars.
🔫 Is the Bō any good?
Definitely. It’s designed for players who like versatility—range, crowd control, and fast-paced combos.
Glossary
- Awaji Island: A real-world location near Osaka, reimagined as a deadly sandbox for the expansion.
- Sanzoku Ippa: A fictional rebel group specializing in stealth, deception, and brutal efficiency.
- Bō: A Japanese staff weapon, now wielded by Naoe, adding dynamic range-based combat to her arsenal.
Final Thoughts
If you loved the main game, Claws of Awaji is your ticket to an even deeper Assassin’s Creed Shadows experience. It’s equal parts emotional, dangerous, and stylish—a perfect blend of narrative weight and mechanical innovation. Whether you’re a stealth purist or an action-forward assassin, Awaji Island promises challenges worth facing.
Mark your calendar: September 16, 2025. The shadows are calling.
