Ubisoft continues to deliver substantial post-launch support for its blockbuster title, Assassin's Creed Shadows, with the deployment of the significant 1.0.5 update across all platforms in 2026. This comprehensive patch enriches the immersive experience of feudal Japan by introducing fresh narrative content, special collaborative events, and a suite of gameplay refinements aimed at polishing the core mechanics. Following its monumental launch earlier in the year, which solidified its position as one of the franchise's most successful entries, this update demonstrates Ubisoft's commitment to evolving the game based on community feedback and expanding its vibrant world.
New Narrative and Collaborative Content 🎭
The centerpiece of the 1.0.5 update is the integration of the "Thrown to the Dogs" story mission, a quest previously exclusive to pre-order customers. This emotionally charged tale tasks players with aiding a loyal canine companion in avenging its deceased master. Successful completion rewards the player with Tsuki-maru, a new pet that can be placed within the customizable Hideout. The quest becomes accessible early in the adventure after completing the "From Spark to Flame" mission and is located at the Tennoji Temple near Osaka.
Furthermore, the update unveils exciting crossover events that blend the worlds of Assassin's Creed Shadows with other popular gaming franchises:
-
Dead by Daylight Collaboration: A mysterious, otherworldly threat emerges in the Harima region, prompting Naoe to investigate the disappearances of local villagers. This free event quest, accessible from the Hideout after unlocking Yasuke, challenges players with unique mechanics. Upon vanquishing the formidable foe, participants earn a commemorative trinket and banner. An optional cosmetic pack, inspired by Dead by Daylight, is also available, featuring outfits, weapons, and the iconic steed, Maurice.
-
Balatro-Inspired Gear: Adding a touch of strategic chance, a new trinket for Naoe and an amulet for Yasuke, dubbed "Winning Hand," have been introduced. These items possess a legendary perk that grants a chance to inflict a random affliction effect upon executing combo enders, adding an unpredictable layer to combat.
Enhanced Parkour and Movement Mechanics 🏃♂️
Responding to dedicated player feedback, the development team has implemented several key improvements to the parkour system, aiming for greater fluidity and control:
| Enhancement | Description |
|---|---|
| Vertical Jump & Grab | A brand-new interaction allows both Naoe and Yasuke to leap and grab onto ledges, awnings, or overhangs directly, reducing reliance on vertical wall runs. |
| Sprint Engagement | Sprint mode now remains active when using Parkour Up or Parkour Down commands, as long as directional input is maintained. |
| Improved Ejects | The distance and height of side and back ejects have been increased, with animations favoring foot landings. Naoe receives new animations for height-gaining side ejects, enhancing her vertical mobility. |
These refinements are designed to make traversing the lush landscapes and intricate urban environments of feudal Japan feel more intuitive and responsive.
Expanded Photo Mode Capabilities 📸
Assassin's Creed Shadows receives its most substantial Photo Mode update in the series' history, providing players with powerful tools to capture the breathtaking scenery and dynamic action. New features include:
-
Dynamic Time of Day Control: Adjust the lighting and ambiance of any scene.
-
Character Customization: Toggle headgear visibility and select from numerous poses and facial expressions for protagonists.
-
Advanced Editing: Save custom filters, colorize stickers, apply new frames, and even play music while composing shots.
-
Technical Improvements: A refined preview mode, adjustable camera speed, and a PC-exclusive fullscreen option for unblemished captures.
Players are encouraged to share their masterpieces online using the hashtag #ACPhotoMode for a chance to be featured on official social channels.
Comprehensive Bug Fixes and Adjustments 🔧
The 1.0.5 patch addresses a wide array of issues reported by the community, significantly improving stability and fixing progression blockers. Key resolutions include:
-
Quest Progression: Fixed multiple bugs affecting main and side quests such as "Vision of Realms," "Nobutsuna Sensei," "Diary of Lady Rokkaku," and "Wolves and Foxes," where characters could become stuck or objectives would fail to trigger.
-
Gameplay Economy: Rebalanced the in-game currency (Mon) economy to incentivize exploration and activities over merchant purchases. The cost of Crafting Materials and Hideout Resources at merchants has increased, while Mon rewards from contracts have been boosted.
-
Technical Stability: Resolved crashes, visual glitches (including a notorious "giant NPC" bug), interaction problems in the Hideout, and input issues for Mouse and Keyboard users.
-
Platform-Specific Fix: Restored the missing Balanced Performance Mode on Xbox Series X, which requires a compatible high-refresh-rate monitor.
Looking Ahead: The Claws of Awaji DLC 🔮
While this update delivers substantial new content, the community's anticipation continues to build for the announced story expansion, "Claws of Awaji." This downloadable content promises to transport protagonists Naoe and Yasuke to a new, explorable island within Osaka Bay, adding an estimated 10+ hours of fresh narrative and gameplay. Although an official release date has not been confirmed by Ubisoft, speculation points toward a potential late 2026 launch. This expansion is poised to be a meaty addition, further deepening the saga of these two iconic assassins.
In summary, Update 1.0.5 for Assassin's Creed Shadows is a multifaceted enhancement that enriches the core experience through meaningful content additions, thoughtful gameplay polish, and crucial technical fixes. It underscores Ubisoft's ongoing dedication to supporting the title, ensuring that the journey through Sengoku-era Japan remains engaging, visually stunning, and mechanically satisfying for both new recruits and veteran shinobi alike.