One of the blockbuster games releasing this year, Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set to bring a fresh take on the franchise with its feudal Japan setting. Most fans are hoping that they get to revisit the old charm of the series in this new title. The popularity of Assassin’s Creed is such that it has even inspired a lot of titles to mirror it. We have identified a few games that are like Assassin’s Creed Shadows in some manner — be it the essence, setting or gameplay. But more on that in a while.
It is not difficult to understand why Assassin’s Creed Shadows is one of the most anticipated games of 2025 — the franchise enjoys one of the largest fanbases in the industry, and this new title is the first full game in the series after 2023’s Mirage. In fact, some consider the 2023 release as an expansion of Valhalla, so to them, Shadows is the first major entry in the franchise after five years.
While it might be a first for this celebrated series, in the past, we have seen many titles set in Japan. On that note, here is a look at the best PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Android and iOS games that are like Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
6 best games like ‘Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ you should play right away
1. Ghost of Tsushima
Genre: Action, adventure, open-world
Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC
Release: 2020 (PS4), 2021 (PS5), 2024 (PC)
One of the best games ever made by a first-party Sony game developer, Ghost of Tsushima was compared favourably to the Assassin’s Creed games upon its release, and rightfully so — its stealth gameplay, exploration and refined side quests pointed out to everyone how Ubisoft can improve its titles.
The narrative requires players to explore a beautifully designed Tsushima Island as they do their best to stop a Mongol invasion. The fact that both are set in feudal Japan makes Ghost of Tsushima a worthy addition to this list of the best games like Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
2. Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice
Genre: Action, role-playing game (RPG)
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC
Release: 2019
Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is a unique game that stands out in the library of its developer, FromSoftware. They are usually known for making Soulslike experiences such as Dark Souls, Bloodborne and Elden Ring. Sekiro is a straightforward action RPG in which you get only one set of weapons to fight all the bosses. Now that’s a challenge not everyone will be up to!
Like the previous title on this list, it has a feudal Japanese setting. The protagonist, Sekiro, is a shinobi who has to employ his combat skills (and, at times, stealth) to defeat his enemies. This is similar to Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ Naoe, who is also a shinobi with exceptional stealth skills and takes down her foes quietly.
3. Ninja Arashi 2
Genre: Action, platformer
Platforms: Android, iOS
Release: 2020
For mobile gamers who are looking for an Assassin’s Creed Shadows-like experience on their Android or iOS devices, Ninja Arashi 2 is the best option. It offers stealth action gameplay mixed with fluid platforming and some light RPG elements.
While it is not a 3D open-world game, Ninja Arashi 2 offers an engaging stealth action experience starring a ninja called Arashi. His mission? Rescuing his son from a demon named Dosu. With a detailed skill tree, a lengthy story and incredible 2D visuals, this game is worth your time and effort if you are a fan of platformers.
4. Aragami
Genre: Stealth-action
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC
Release: 2016
Aragami is the best game for those who prefer a pure stealth experience. You control a spirit called Aragami who must reach its objective in every level by remaining in the shadows and staying hidden from the patrol guards.
It is important to stay in the shadows? The guards can instantly kill Aragami, and they investigate every small disturbance around them. Anyone who loves Japanese aesthetics would find this title worth their time.
5. Nioh 2
Genre: Action, RPG
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC
Release: 2020 (PS4), 2021 (PS5, PC)
Team Ninja, the brain behind games like Ninja Gaiden and Dead or Alive, developed Nioh 2, a title that combines fast-paced melee combat with supernatural elements. This title is set in Sengoku-era Japan, similar to the period featured in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. The ability to unlock various gear to offer your character an advantage during combat makes the gameplay interesting.
6. Rise of the Rōnin
Genre: Action, RPG, open-world
Platforms: PlayStation 5, PC
Release: 2024 (PS5), 2025 (PC)
Yet another game developed by Team Ninja, this open-world title shares a closer resemblance to Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Its fast-paced combat is like a hybrid between Ninja Gaiden and Nioh. When it comes to the setting and open-ended gameplay possibilities, Rise of the Rōnin is pretty similar to the latest Assassin’s Creed title.
The story follows the Blade Twins, who are trained in combat by the Veiled Edge resistance group and intend to overthrow the Shogunate. It received positive responses upon release, and Metacritic gave it a score of 76 out of 100.
(Hero Image Credit: Ubisoft; Featured Image Credit: Activision)
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