Ubisoft has brought good news for PC gamers anticipating Assassin's Creed Shadows. Steam users will not need to install the separate Ubisoft Connect Launcher to access the game. This streamlined approach allows players to keep their game library consolidated, although a small caveat remains: players will still need to link their Ubisoft Connect account to Steam, and a lightweight, embedded version of the launcher will be present within the game itself. While not a complete separation, it represents a positive step toward simplifying the user experience.

The road to Assassin's Creed Shadows' release has been somewhat bumpy, marked by several delays.  Ubisoft is keenly aware of the need for a successful launch, particularly for this flagship franchise. As the first RPG in the series since 2020's Assassin's Creed Valhalla, anticipation is high among fans who enjoy the larger-scale entries.  The delays, while frustrating, hopefully indicate Ubisoft's commitment to delivering a polished and engaging experience on its release date.

In another exciting development, Ubisoft has partnered with Red Bull to offer players a chance to unlock free in-game items for Assassin's Creed Shadows. Details of the collaboration are still emerging, but it promises to add another layer of enjoyment for players eager to dive into the game's world.

The news regarding the Ubisoft Connect Launcher follows another welcome announcement: Assassin's Creed Shadows will be compatible with the Steam Deck at launch. This reversed an earlier decision, further adding to the positive momentum surrounding the game's release.

Beyond Assassin's Creed Shadows, Ubisoft appears to have ambitious plans for the franchise. Despite the three-year gap between Valhalla and Shadows, rumors suggest a rapid release cadence of a new Assassin's Creed title every six months for the next decade. While this sounds incredibly ambitious, and should be treated with caution,  it raises concerns about potential franchise fatigue.  The focus now remains on the successful launch and reception of Assassin's Creed Shadows.