Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ postgame unpacks epilogue and NPC backstories, but no word on the modern-day timeline

A month after launch, Assassin’s Creed: Shadows is just beginning. Upcoming postgame quests promise deeper stories, from side character origins to Yasuke and Naoe’s journey. However, as the past expands, the modern-day timeline grows more distant, leaving many wondering how it will fit into future installments.

When Assassin’s Creed: Shadows was first released, the absence of a strong modern-day timeline quickly became a point of discussion. Players voiced their concerns that the game’s focus had shifted too far into the past, leaving the present narrative largely unexplored. Even someone with a more casual understanding of the Assassin’s Creed lore could feel this shift. With the upcoming updates, it seems Ubisoft is further solidifying this approach, as the emphasis continues to lie on expanding the rich history of the past, with only a few breadcrumbs on the game’s modern side.

While the modern-day timeline remains sidelined, the upcoming postgame content still deserves attention. The first Story Drop in early May will introduce the fascinating tale of Jesuit scholar Luis Frois, shedding light on his historical connections to Japan. Additionally, parkour fans can look forward to the return of classic mechanics, such as back and side ejects with wall climbing, bringing back the traditional Assassin’s Creed movement experience.

By June, Assassin’s Creed: Shadows will receive another Story Drop for the Summer, featuring a new ally, fresh difficulty settings, and the long-awaited removal of headgear in cutscenes. The rest of the year will bring a New Game+ mode, additional stories, and the free Claws of Awaji Expansion, continuing Yasuke and Naoe’s adventures after the epilogue. While it may seem like the modern-day content is nowhere to be found, the roadmap does hint at “Animus content.” I know it’s a stretch, but it might just suggest a faint return to more present-day features.

Given that the roadmap trailer has been largely shaped by community feedback, there remains a glimmer of hope for the modern-day timeline, fueled by the desire of long-time fans. I believe there’s a way Ubisoft could strike a balance between the past and present—something that wouldn’t overwhelm newcomers with too much lore but would satisfy OG fans who crave that connection to the modern-day story. It could pave the way for the future of Assassin’s Creed entries, where new and old fans alike can experience the game’s wonders.