Assassin’s Creed Shadows Breaks an RPG Rule - Why It Works

Published on 21 Apr 2025

Introduction

Assassin’s Creed Shadows has violated a fundamental principle of RPGs. That which players mostly hate in games well, Shadows pulls it off. Here’s how.

What Is the Great RPG Sin?

The issue is with what they did to the turn based combat. In many RPGs fans prefer strategic fight sequences. Shadows’ change out for fast action which is shocking to fans.

Why Turn-Based Combat Matters

In the turn based system players have time to think. It plays out like a game of chess. Action in real time can be a mess. But in Shadows they pull it off.

How Assassin’s Creed Shadows Makes It Work

The game is more than just a mindless action platformer. It features in depth mechanics. Fans will find strategy which is present but presented in different ways.

Smooth Combat Flow

The fights are smooth. Parries, dodges, and counters go off without a hitch. It keeps players engaged which in turn is not frustrating.

Character Customization Still Matters

In the absence of turn based combat, build choices are what it is all about. Players thoughtfully select their skills. Also different play styles which used to be dominant still stand out.

RPG Elements They Kept Right

Shadows preserves main RPG elements. Story choices which transform the game. Side quests which are very meaningful. Exploration which is rewarding for the curious.

Strong Narrative Choices

Dialogue choices which play out differently. Characters recall past decisions. The world responds to your actions.

Deep Skill Trees

Skills open up what is possible. Players choose between stealth, combat, or tools. Diversifying your style keeps the action new.

Why Action Works Here

In most RPGs turn based is the norm for strategy. In Shadows we see that fast paced fights can also be strategic. Timing is key. Positioning is what you’ll want to pay attention to.

Player Skill Over Stats

Stats are a help but skill is what wins out. I see that which you put to use at the right time beats out high armor. Also it has a very rewarding feel.

Intense Boss Fights

Bosses require of you to use your skills and also to think through your strategies. Also very import is the ability to recognize patterns. And when you win it feels particularly earned.

Fan Reactions to the Change

Some have issues with the change. In other quarters it is very much embraced. As for which camp you fall in to most agree that the game is a lot of fun although it does break rules.

Purist RPG Fans Disappointed

In the real time action lovers that which is slow and tactical is left out. This goes against what they want. It is a form of betrayal.

New Players Love the Pace

Casual players prefer speed which is what this game delivers. They find turn based play to be slow and boring. Shadows however brings in a new audience.

Is This the Future of RPGs?

Maybe. Shadows shows that action RPGs can go deep. Games don’t have to rely on old rules to be considered RPGs.

More Hybrid Games Coming

Developers will mix up the genres. Look for action and strategy elements to blend. At the end of the day, what’s fun is what matters.

Conclusion

Assassin’s Creed Shadows goes against what fans expect in a RPG, but does very well at that. They have put in the complex strategy into the fast paced action. But fans are for it because it is just so entertaining.

FAQs

1. What RPG rule did Assassin’s Creed Shadows break?

It did away with turn based combat. In most RPGs it was used for strategic depth.

2. Is the game still an RPG without turn-based fights?

Yes. It has deep choice options, skill trees, and meaningful story elements.

3. Why do some fans dislike the change?

In the go at it in turns set of players this is a turn based love story which instead of strategy they prefer action. They feel the best moments are when there is little left to think about, only acting out.