Assassin's Creed Shadows vs Assassin’s Creed Valhalla: Similarities and differences explored

The Assassin's Creed franchise has been a gaming staple for the past 17 years, and Ubisoft has featured various cultures and mythologies in the series. New gameplay footage was shared recently, and it appears that Shadows will feature significant gameplay improvements in mobility, combat, and more.

Shadows was delayed a full year from the intended release date, but fans can always play older titles to pass the time. As the release of the next Assassin's Creed is close, some fans can’t help but compare the upcoming title with Valhalla.

This article will discuss the similarities and differences between the two Assassin’s Creed titles.

Note: This article was written before the release of Assassin's Creed Shadows, and the writer used promotional footage provided by the publishers for this comparison.

---

The similarities between Assassin's Creed Shadows and Valhalla

1) Open-world setting and design

Every Assassin's Creed game has a large open-world sandbox (Image via Ubisoft)

Regardless of the historical setting, Assassin’s Creed fans can expect a large open-world sandbox worth exploring. The franchise is renowned for its sprawling environments, which depict a somewhat realistic adaptation of a specific era. Valhalla is set in Norway, where locals worship the Norse gods, while Shadows will take fans to Feudal Japan, a highly requested entry to the franchise.

---

2) Stealth and combat

Assassin's Creed games have always been synonymous with stealth (Image via: Ubisoft)

The franchise has always been a hallmark of the action-adventure genre. Valhalla does not shy away from brutal combat with powerful, heavy attacks against bigger and more barbaric opponents. As a Viking, Eivor can take on any foe with brute force or swing heavy weapons with deadly intent for players to get the full experience.

Stealth is an option in Valhalla. Ubisoft wanted to give the player base the freedom to approach any combat encounter they see fit, which is something to look forward to in Shadows. Eivor’s Viking background and Yasuke's Samurai training mean their movement is more sluggish than Naoe’s ninja-like agility and speed, which are much more appropriate for stealth.

---

3) RPG mechanics and narrative

It isn't an Assassin's Creed game if it doesn't have a compelling narrative (Image via Epic Games/Ubisoft)

Every major installment in the Assassin’s Creed franchise features a compelling narrative. The gameplay must complement the story to keep the fans invested and entertained to see it through to the end. Valhalla features Nordic deities as Eivor embarks on a quest to build a new clan.

Despite coming from different factions, Yasuke and Naoe forge an unlikely alliance. The two protagonists have are drastically different in background, training, and beliefs. Regardless, they have a common goal of fighting for the people in need.

---

4) Character customization and cosmetics

Players can customize their character's appearance in Assassin's Creed (Image via Ubisoft)

Cosmetics and other apparel are one method to showcase different cultures. Players can unlock and acquire pieces of clothing to customize their character’s appearance. Some items can offer benefits, such as improved defense, better stats, and more.

Eivor has a wide selection of hairstyles, facial hair, and tattoos. Perhaps Ubisoft will double down on character customization for Naoe and Yasuke and encourage creativity.

---

The differences between Assassin's Creed Shadows and Valhalla

1) Historical setting and culture

Assassin's Creed heavily relies on different cultures and settings (Image via Ubisoft)

Among the obvious differences between Valhalla and Shadows is the location. The developers have always been interested in featuring historical moments and mythologies to appeal to more players.

---

2) Mobility

The movement system in the upcoming Assassin's Creed game is lighter and more agile (Image via Ubisoft)

In a new gameplay video, Naoe is seen to be jumping from rooftops with finesse. Parkour is among the most recognizable traits of the franchise. Unlike Eivor's buff build, Naoe is lighter and more agile, which gives her an edge with her speed. Yasuke is a trained warrior and he can use his size and strength to his advantage.

Yasuke is a fierce warrior with unique gameplay elements. Unlike Naoe, Yasuke can face any foe in a straight fight with his weapons. His attacks will vary between light and heavy and can break an enemy's guard, making him the perfect combatant, although there is a good chance his size will compromise his speed, where Naoe excels.

---

3) Dual protagonists

Unlike Valhalla, Shadows will have two playable characters (Image via Ubisoft)

Assassin's Creed Shadows will feature two main protagonists: Yasuke, a samurai warrior, and Naoe, a Shinobi Assassin, hailing from different backgrounds. In Valhalla, players can select either a male or female version of Eivor with no major changes in the main story.