Assassin’s Creed Shadows Just Got a Massive Update – Here’s Everything You Need to Know!
Ubisoft has officially announced AC Shadows Update 1.0.6, releasing on June 25, 2025, at 2 PM UTC. This update includes an all-new quest featuring a Critical Role collaboration, a challenging Nightmare Mode, new customization options, and a long list of bug fixes.
Whether you’re deep in your journey or just starting, this patch brings meaningful improvements for every player.
Patch Sizes for Each Platform
Steam – 8.5 GB
PlayStation 5 – 6.27 GB
Xbox Series X|S – 19 GB
PC – 17 GB
Mac – 9 GB
What’s New in AC Shadows Update 1.0.6
Critical Role Collaboration: “A Critical Encounter”
Ubisoft teams up with Critical Role to deliver a free new questline: A Critical Encounter. This quest introduces Rufino, a fan-favorite character voiced by Robbie Daymond. You’ll help him uncover a deadly conspiracy targeting influential citizens.
Unlock Requirements:
- Complete the “Way of the Blacksmith” quest
- Unlock Yasuke as a playable character
Rewards:
- New Ally: Rufino
- Hideout banner featuring the Critical Role logo
- New trophy/achievement: “A Critical Encounter”
Also launching: Critical Role Weapon Pack (Available in-game store)
Yasuke: Kanabo & Teppo
Naoe: Tanto & Katana
New Nightmare Difficulty Coming In AC Shadows Update 1.0.6
Looking for a tougher challenge? The new Nightmare Mode will test your combat skills and stealth strategy.
Key changes include:
- Less effective defense; perfect timing required for parries
- Enemies are smarter, faster, and more alert
- Limited resources (adrenaline, rations, items)
- No more stun advantage from dodges or standard parries
If you’re looking for realism, tension, and tactical gameplay, Nightmare is your new home.
Toggle Headgear in Cutscenes
By popular demand, you can now show or hide headgear during dialogue scenes. Customize how Naoe and Yasuke appear in cutscenes—keep your style consistent!
Note: Some cinematic and romance scenes will override this setting.
New Visual Options: VFX Toggles In AC Shadows Update 1.0.6
Players can now disable certain visual effects for a cleaner experience:
- Hide loot markers on dead enemies
- Remove “last known position” indicators
- Toggle enemy attack indicators
Find all these options in the Interface settings menu.
World Alert Expansion
Previously only active in castles, the Regional Alert System now applies to the entire province. If you repeatedly attack civilians or guards, Guardians will actively hunt you down—even outside of strongholds.
Horse Camera Presets
Enjoy a more cinematic ride through Japan! You can now switch between three new horse camera angles by holding Down (controller) or pressing X (keyboard) while riding.
Ultra Low Graphics Mode for PC
Low-end PC users can now play more smoothly. Ubisoft added an Ultra Low Spec mode for better performance on minimal GPU setups.
Bug Fixes & Missing Content
This update includes a wide range of bug fixes across platforms. However, no new anomalies were added, and the much-requested “Claws of Awaji” quest is still not available.
Final Thoughts on AC Shadows Update 1.0.6
AC Shadows Update 1.0.6 delivers exciting new content, deeper gameplay customization, and enhanced difficulty for hardcore fans. The Critical Role collaboration and Nightmare Mode stand out as major highlights.
Still, many players are hoping for new anomalies and the return of missing quests in future updates.