Rumors are swirling around the upcoming release of Assassin's Creed Shadows, with multiple reports indicating that both physical and digital copies of the game have made their way into the hands of players nearly a month ahead of its official launch on March 20, 2025.

This isn't the first time the 14th mainline installment in Ubisoft's popular franchise has faced scheduling adjustments. Initially slated for a November 2024 release, the game was pushed back to February 14, 2025, to ensure historical accuracy.  A further delay moved the release to March 20th.

Evidence of the early release includes purported gameplay videos showcasing the stealth-based protagonist, Naoe, engaging in combat. Images of the game's loading animations, menu screens, and even descriptions of Naoe's weapon, the Death Whisperer, have also surfaced online.

With the official launch still weeks away, photo and video evidence suggests some individuals have obtained the game early, possibly through PlayStation Network errors or by acquiring physical copies through unspecified means.  Early players have reportedly shared gameplay experiences and videos, including footage of Naoe fighting armed men. Screenshots allegedly taken from the game's menus detail visual options and weapon descriptions.

While some fans dismiss the leaks as elaborate hoaxes, questioning the authenticity of the footage and images, others believe the early releases are genuine. Some speculate that physical copies were accidentally sold or illegally obtained by retail employees. The recent 24-hour PSN outage earlier this month lends some credence to the possibility of digital leaks, though there's no official confirmation from either Ubisoft or Sony.

The skepticism surrounding the leaks also extends to unsubstantiated claims about the return of Animus Anomalies.  Some believe the leaked images and videos could be cleverly manipulated recreations of existing Ubisoft footage. Adding to the confusion, a parody game titled 'Yasuke Simulator' has appeared on Steam, sharing the same release date as Assassin's Creed Shadows and featuring crude artwork.