Diablo IV vs Assassin Creed Shadows

• Perspective: Isometric (Top-Downish Third-Person)
• Multiplayer: Online Co-op (up to 4 players), Shared World, PvP Zones (Fields of Hatred)
• Setting: Sanctuary (Fractured Peaks, Scosglen, Dry Steppes, Kehjistan, Hawezar)
• Platforms: PC (Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
• Unique Feature: Shared Open World Sanctuary, Deep Class Customization & Paragon System, Legendary Aspect Crafting, Dark Gothic Atmosphere, Seasonal Content Model.

• Perspective: Third-Person
• Multiplayer: Single-player Only
• Setting: Feudal Japan (Azuchi-Momoyama period, late 16th century)
• Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Windows PC (Ubisoft Store, Steam, Epic Games Store), Amazon Luna, Macs (Apple silicon)
• Unique Feature: Dual protagonists (Naoe - Shinobi, Yasuke - Samurai) with distinct playstyles, Feudal Japan setting, dynamic weather & seasons impacting gameplay, spy network, customizable hideout.

• Necromancer Minions (Skeletons, Golem): The Necromancer class can summon and command various undead minions. Skeletal Warriors (Skirmishers, Defenders, Reapers), Skeletal Mages (Shadow, Cold, Bone), and a powerful Golem (Bone, Blood, Iron). These minions automatically attack enemies and can be customized and upgraded through the Book of the Dead and skill tree.
  Undead Construct
• Druid Companions (Wolves, Ravens, Vine Creeper): The Druid class can summon animal companions. Wolves fight alongside the Druid. Ravens passively attack enemies and can apply Vulnerability. Vine Creepers poison enemies or provide active abilities. These companions are part of the Druid's skill set and can be enhanced.
  Animal / Plant Spirit
• Sorcerer/Sorceress Conjurations (Hydra, Ice Blades, Lightning Spear - Temporary): While not persistent pets, Sorcerers can conjure temporary magical allies like Hydras that spit fire, Ice Blades that seek enemies, or Lightning Spears that zap foes. These are active spells with durations.
  Magical Construct
• Online Co-op Party Members (Other Players): In online cooperative play, players can team up with up to three other players (forming a party of four). Teammates fight alongside each other, can revive downed allies, and synergize their class abilities to tackle challenging content like Dungeons, World Bosses, or Helltides. Trade is limited.
  Human (Player Characters - Various Classes)
• Story-Specific NPC Allies (Temporary & Contextual): During certain main story quests or significant side quests, key NPC characters like Lorath Nahr or Donan will temporarily accompany the player character, providing combat support (though often less impactful than player companions) and crucial dialogue. Their presence is scripted for those mission segments.
  Human (e.g., Lorath Nahr, Donan, Neyrelle)

• Spy Network Recruits: Players can build a network of spies who act as eyes and ears across locations, unveiling new areas and helping to hunt down targets. Recruitable allies with specialized skills can assist in missions, though likely not as direct controllable companions in the style of some RPGs.
  Human (Spies, Allies)
• Hideout Crew Members: As players develop their customizable hideout for the shinobi league, they will likely recruit various individuals who offer services like gear crafting, training, information, or unique missions.
  Human (Artisans, Trainers, Informants)

• Legendary Items & Aspects: Dropped by enemies (especially Elites and Bosses), found in chests, obtained from gambling with Obols, or as rewards from events and quests. Legendary items have powerful unique Aspects that can be extracted at the Occultist and imprinted onto Rare or other Legendary items. Collecting and optimizing Aspects is key to build crafting.
• Unique Items (Including Uber Uniques): Extremely rare and powerful items with fixed, often build-defining, unique properties that cannot be modified or extracted. Dropped from high-level content, specific bosses, or have very low drop rates. Uber Uniques are the rarest and most powerful items in the game.
• Altars of Lilith: Hidden statues of Lilith scattered throughout all regions of Sanctuary. Interacting with each one for the first time grants a small, permanent stat boost (e.g., +Strength, +Dexterity, +Max Obols, +Paragon Point) to ALL characters on the player's account within that realm (Seasonal/Eternal). Also grants Renown.
• Paragon Glyphs: Earned as drops, primarily from Nightmare Dungeons. These are socketed into Paragon Boards (unlocked after level 50) to provide powerful passive bonuses and stat increases within their radius. Glyphs can be leveled up by completing Nightmare Dungeons, increasing their power and radius.
• Waypoints: Teleportation points found in towns, settlements, and key locations across Sanctuary. Activating them allows for fast travel between discovered waypoints.
• Strongholds: Three per region. Heavily enemy-infested locations that, once conquered by defeating all enemies and a final boss/event, transform into friendly outposts, often unlocking new Waypoints, vendors, dungeons, or side quests.
• Codex of Power (Aspects from Dungeons): Completing specific Dungeons for the first time unlocks a baseline version of a Legendary Aspect in the Codex of Power. These aspects always roll with their minimum values but can be imprinted onto gear an unlimited number of times (at a cost).
• Side Quest Items & Lore Books/Notes: Various items required for completing side quests, or readable books, notes, and journals that provide lore about Sanctuary, its history, characters, and the ongoing conflict.
• Mounts & Mount Armor (Cosmetic/Utility): Mounts are unlocked via a quest. Various cosmetic horse breeds and mount armor sets can be acquired as drops, from vendors, or through the in-game shop.
• Titles & Emblems (Player Profile Customization): Unlocked by completing challenges, achievements, or progressing through the seasonal Battle Pass. Used to customize the player's visible profile.

• Historical Codex Entries / Data Fragments: Found by exploring, interacting with landmarks, or completing objectives. Provide lore about Feudal Japan, historical figures, locations, and the Assassin-Templar conflict.
• Viewpoints (Synchronization Points): High vantage points that, when synchronized, reveal parts of the map, points of interest, and unlock fast travel locations.
• Gear Schematics & Crafting Materials: Discovered in chests, looted from enemies, or earned as quest rewards. Used to craft and upgrade weapons, armor, and tools for both Naoe and Yasuke.
• Shinobi Texts / Samurai Scrolls (Skill Unlocks): Collectibles that might unlock new skills, abilities, or combat techniques for Naoe and Yasuke respectively.
• Treasures & Valuables: Hidden chests and stashes containing currency, rare materials, or unique items scattered throughout the open world.
• Kamon Crests / Origami Butterflies / Tea Bowls (Example Collectibles from IGN): Specific types of themed collectibles scattered across Japan, potentially tied to side quests, achievements, or unlocking cosmetic items.

• Dark Fantasy & Gothic Horror
• Demonic Invasion & Eternal Conflict (High Heavens vs. Burning Hells)
• The Return of Lilith
• Corruption & Despair
• Ancient Evils
• Cults & Fanaticism
• Loot & Character Progression
• Shared World Experience
• Sanctuary's Lore

• Feudal Japan
• Shinobi (Ninja)
• Samurai
• Vengeance
• Honor
• Duty
• Cultural Clash
• Political Intrigue
• Assassin vs. Templar
• Unification of Japan
• Espionage
• Dual Perspectives

• One-Handed Weapons (Swords, Axes, Maces, Daggers, Wands, Scepters): Melee / Caster
  Various one-handed weapons. Swords, axes, maces, and daggers are typically for melee classes (Barbarian, Rogue, Druid, Necromancer). Wands and scepters are often used by casters (Sorcerer, Necromancer) and can roll with spell-related affixes. Can be dual-wielded by Rogues or paired with an off-hand item/shield.
• Two-Handed Weapons (Swords, Axes, Maces, Polearms, Staves, Scythes): Melee / Caster (Heavy)
  Larger weapons dealing higher base damage. Two-handed swords, axes, maces, and polearms are for melee classes. Staves are for Sorcerers. Scythes are iconic for Necromancers. Typically prevent the use of an off-hand item.
• Ranged Weapons (Bows, Crossbows): Physical Ranged
  Used primarily by the Rogue class, but other classes might have specific builds or uniques that utilize them. Fire arrows or bolts.
• Off-Hand Items (Shields, Foci, Tomes): Defensive / Caster Utility
  Shields provide blocking and defensive stats. Foci and Tomes are held by casters and can provide significant offensive or utility stats, cooldown reduction, or resource generation for spells.
• Class-Specific Weapon Types (e.g., Totems for Druid, Scythes for Necromancer): Thematic / Unique
  Some weapon types are strongly associated with or exclusively usable by certain classes, often synergizing with their core skills and themes.
• Magical Affixes & Legendary Aspects: Weapon Enhancements
  All weapons (except Common) roll with magical affixes (e.g., +Strength, +Critical Strike Chance, +Damage to Vulnerable). Legendary weapons also have a powerful Legendary Aspect that significantly alters a skill or provides a unique effect. These aspects can be extracted and imprinted onto other items.
• Gems (Socketable): Weapon Augmentation
  Weapons can have sockets where gems (Rubies, Sapphires, Emeralds, Diamonds, Amethysts, Skulls, Topazes) can be inserted to provide specific offensive or utility bonuses (e.g., damage over time, crowd control duration, basic skill damage, ultimate damage, critical strike damage to crowd controlled enemies).

• Naoe's Arsenal (Shinobi): Stealth, Agile Combat
  Includes the iconic Hidden Blade for assassinations, a Kusarigama (chain-sickle) for versatile melee and ranged attacks, Tanto, Shuriken, Kunai, Smoke Bombs, and a grappling hook for enhanced mobility and infiltration.
• Yasuke's Arsenal (Samurai): Direct, Powerful Combat
  Wields a variety of traditional samurai weapons including Katana, the heavy Kanabō (club), Odachi (greatsword), Yari (spear), Naginata (polearm), Bows (Yumi), and potentially early firearms (Teppo). His combat style is focused on parries, powerful strikes, and battlefield control.
• Environmental Weapons / Tools: Situational
  Players can likely utilize elements of the environment for combat or distraction, such as explosive barrels, cutting down bamboo, or using natural cover provided by the dynamic weather and lighting.

• Helms: Head armor. Provides Armor value and various magical affixes (e.g., +Max Life, +Cooldown Reduction, +Ranks to specific Skills, Resistances). Can have sockets for Gems.
• Chest Armor: Body armor. Provides the highest base Armor value of all pieces and significant magical affixes (e.g., +Damage Reduction, +Total Armor, +Ranks to Skills, Thorns). Can have sockets.
• Gloves: Hand armor. Provides Armor and magical affixes often related to offensive stats (e.g., +Attack Speed, +Critical Strike Chance, +Lucky Hit Chance, +Ranks to Skills). Can have sockets.
• Pants: Leg armor. Provides Armor and magical affixes often focused on defensive or utility stats (e.g., +Damage Reduction from Close Enemies, +Potion Capacity, +Movement Speed after Elite Kill). Can have sockets.
• Boots: Foot armor. Provides Armor and magical affixes typically related to movement and utility (e.g., +Movement Speed, +Evade Charges, +Damage Reduction while Injured). Can have sockets.
• Amulets: Necklace slot. Does not provide Armor but offers powerful magical affixes (e.g., +Ranks to Passive Skills, +Critical Strike Damage, +Resource Generation, Movement Speed, Cooldown Reduction). Can have sockets.
• Rings (x2): Finger slots (two can be equipped). Do not provide Armor but offer significant magical affixes (e.g., +Critical Strike Chance, +Vulnerable Damage, +Resource Cost Reduction, +Lucky Hit Chance). Can have sockets.
• Legendary Aspects: Found on Legendary items (Orange rarity). These provide powerful, often class-specific or build-defining effects that can be extracted at the Occultist and imprinted onto Rare or other Legendary items (replacing their existing aspect). Key to build customization.
• Unique Items: Gold/Brown rarity items with fixed, powerful, and often build-altering unique properties that cannot be modified or extracted. Some are class-specific. Uber Uniques are extremely rare and powerful versions.
• Gems (Socketable): Can be socketed into gear with open sockets to provide specific defensive bonuses (e.g., Rubies for +Max Life in Armor, Sapphires for +Damage Reduction while Fortified in Armor, Skulls for +Armor).

• Naoe's Shinobi Attire: Lightweight, flexible armor and clothing designed for stealth, agility, and silent movement. Offers customization options and likely provides bonuses to stealth-related abilities. Can be upgraded.
• Yasuke's Samurai Armor: Heavier, more protective samurai armor (yoroi) providing significant defense for direct combat engagements. Offers customization options and likely provides bonuses to combat prowess and resilience. Can be upgraded.
• Cosmetic Outfits & Gear Sets: Various outfits and gear pieces will be available for both Naoe and Yasuke through progression, exploration, or as part of special editions (e.g., Sekiryu Character Pack from Deluxe Edition). These can alter appearance and provide different stat bonuses or perks.

• Armor Sets (Helms, Chest Armor, Gloves, Pants, Boots): Players equip five main pieces of armor that determine their defensive stats and often contribute significantly to their visual appearance. Armor sets often have a cohesive visual style (e.g., bone armor for Necromancers, heavy plate for Barbarians, leather for Rogues, robes for Sorcerers, nature-themed gear for Druids). Higher rarity items (Legendary, Unique) have distinct, often elaborate appearances.
• Cosmetic Transmogrification (Wardrobe System): Diablo IV features a Wardrobe system that allows players to save the appearance of any armor piece they have collected. They can then transmogrify their currently equipped gear to look like any saved appearance, allowing for full fashion customization without sacrificing stats. This applies to all armor slots.
• Weapon Appearances (Tied to Item & Transmog): The appearance of equipped weapons also changes based on the specific item. Like armor, weapon appearances can be saved and transmogrified onto other weapons of the same type.
• Character Customization (Creation & In-Game Shop): At character creation, players can customize their character's face, hairstyle, hair color, skin tone, markings (tattoos, jewelry, makeup). Additional cosmetic items like character emotes, mount armor, town portal skins, and some armor appearances are available through the seasonal Battle Pass or purchasable from the in-game microtransaction shop (cosmetic only, no power advantages).
• Mount Customization (Mount Armor, Trophies): Players can acquire various cosmetic armor sets for their horse mount, as well as trophies that hang from the saddle. These are unlocked through gameplay or purchased from the shop.

• Shinobi Outfits (Naoe): Naoe will have access to various shinobi shozoku and lighter armor sets designed for stealth and agility. Customizable through dyes, patterns, and individual gear pieces.
• Samurai Armor (Yasuke): Yasuke can equip different sets of samurai armor (yoroi), ranging from lighter to heavier configurations, affecting defense and appearance. Customizable through different armor parts, materials, and insignias.
• Casual / Civilian Attire: Both characters may have options for less conspicuous attire for blending in or for use in the hideout and non-combat scenarios.
• Special Edition Outfits (e.g., Sekiryu Pack): Exclusive cosmetic outfits and weapon skins available through Deluxe, Gold, or Ultimate editions, such as the Sekiryu Character Pack.

The open world of Feudal Japan in Assassin's Creed Shadows is described as comparable in size to that of Assassin's Creed Origins (approximately 80km²). It features diverse regions including spectacular castle towns, bustling ports, peaceful shrines, and pastoral landscapes across central Japan. The world is designed with a more realistic scale for mountains and castles, and features dynamic weather systems and changing seasons that can affect gameplay (e.g., ponds freezing over).

• Mount (Horse - Various Breeds & Cosmetics): Primary Land Traversal
  Players unlock a horse mount by completing a specific priority quest in Act IV. Mounts significantly speed up travel across the vast open world of Sanctuary. Various horse breeds (cosmetic) and mount armor/trophies (cosmetic) can be acquired through gameplay, challenges, or the in-game shop. Mounts have a short dash ability and can perform a dismount attack.
• Waypoints (Fast Travel Network): Map Traversal Mechanic
  Numerous Waypoints are located in towns, settlements, and key points of interest throughout Sanctuary. Once a Waypoint is discovered and activated, players can instantly travel to it from any other activated Waypoint or from the world map, greatly reducing travel time.
• Town Portals (Scroll of Town Portal - Limited): Utility / Return Travel
  While not a vehicle, players can use a Town Portal (either via an unlimited hotkey with a cooldown, or historically via consumable scrolls in past games) to quickly return to the nearest major town/hub from anywhere in the open world or dungeons. This is essential for selling loot, repairing gear, and accessing services.
• Traversal on Foot (Walking, Running, Evade/Dash): Player Locomotion
  Standard on-foot movement for exploring dungeons, navigating combat, and detailed areas. Characters can walk, run (no separate sprint button, movement speed is base), and use an Evade/Dash ability (with charges and cooldown) for quick repositioning or dodging attacks. Some classes have additional movement skills (e.g., Sorcerer's Teleport, Rogue's Dash).

• Horse: Mount / Land Traversal
  Horses will be available for faster travel across the large open world of Feudal Japan, a staple in the Assassin's Creed series.
• Small Boats / Skiffs: Water Traversal
  Given Japan's geography with rivers and coastlines, small boats or skiffs will likely be available for navigating waterways and reaching certain locations.

• Player Character (Customizable Wanderer - Barbarian, Druid, Necromancer, Rogue, Sorcerer): Protagonist / Nephalem (Implied)
  A customizable character who becomes entangled in the events surrounding Lilith's return. Their journey involves confronting demonic forces, navigating faction politics, and potentially shaping the fate of Sanctuary. Each class offers a distinct playstyle and narrative flavor.
• Lilith (Daughter of Hatred / Mother of Sanctuary): Main Antagonist / Creator Figure
  Daughter of Mephisto, Lord of Hatred, and co-creator of Sanctuary with the archangel Inarius. She is summoned back to Sanctuary and seeks to free humanity from the Eternal Conflict between Heaven and Hell, though her methods are extreme and manipulative. The primary driving force of the main story.
• Inarius (Archangel): Antagonist Figure / Former Creator of Sanctuary
  A former archangel of the Angiris Council who, along with Lilith, created Sanctuary. He was exiled and imprisoned but returns with a fanatical desire to rejoin the High Heavens, viewing Lilith and her plans as an obstacle. Leads the Knights Penitent.
• Lorath Nahr: Ally / Horadrim Scholar / Narrator
  One ofthe last surviving members of the Horadrim order. He is an elderly, wise scholar who guides the player character, providing historical context, lore, and assistance in understanding the threats facing Sanctuary. Acts as a key narrative voice.
• Donan: Ally / Horadrim Scholar / Grieving Father
  A former Horadrim and friend of Lorath, now a reclusive figure living in Scosglen, grieving the loss of his son. He possesses crucial knowledge and resources that aid the player.
• Neyrelle: Ally / Young Scholar
  A young, intelligent, and resourceful woman accompanying Lorath. She is skilled in research and seeks to understand the ancient evils threatening Sanctuary, though she is sometimes reckless.
• Taissa: Ally / Druid of Scosglen (If player is Druid or interacts)
  A key figure within the Druid circles of Scosglen, involved in quests related to the region's spiritual imbalance and demonic corruption.
• Prava: Antagonist Figure / Leader of the Cathedral of Light in Kyovashad
  The devout and stern leader of the Cathedral of Light in Kyovashad, representing the dominant faith in the Fractured Peaks. She is wary of Lilith's influence but also of outsiders like the player.
• Elias (Pale Man): Antagonist / Follower of Lilith / Former Horadrim
  A former Horadrim scholar who becomes a key servant of Lilith, orchestrating events to aid her return and plans. A recurring antagonist.
• Various other NPCs (Townsfolk, Faction Members, Quest Givers): Supporting Cast / World Flavor
  Sanctuary is populated by numerous other characters who provide quests, services, or contribute to the world's atmosphere and lore.

• Naoe Fujibayashi: Protagonist / Shinobi Assassin
  A kunoichi (female shinobi) from the Iga Province. She is agile, resourceful, and driven by a quest for vengeance after her home is destroyed. Specializes in stealth, parkour, assassination, and using an array of shinobi tools. Daughter of a legendary shinobi master.
• Yasuke: Protagonist / Samurai Warrior
  A powerful samurai of African origin, based on the historical figure who served Oda Nobunaga. He is skilled in direct combat, wielding heavy weaponry with brutal precision. His story explores themes of identity, honor, and his place in a foreign land.
• Oda Nobunaga: Major Historical Figure / Antagonist / Ally (Complex Role)
  The powerful daimyo aiming to unify Japan. He is a central figure in the narrative, influencing both Naoe (as a target of vengeance) and Yasuke (as his lord). Portrayed as a complex character with both ruthless and progressive aspects.
• Fujibayashi Nagato (Implied): Naoe's Father / Legendary Shinobi
  Mentioned as Naoe's father and a legendary shinobi master, his fate likely fuels Naoe's motivations.
• Templar Order Members: Antagonists
  The recurring antagonists of the Assassin's Creed series, operating behind the scenes in Feudal Japan, seeking to impose their vision of order and control, likely influencing various daimyos and factions.
• Assassin Brotherhood Members: Allies / Faction
  Naoe is an Assassin, implying the presence and activities of the Brotherhood in Japan, fighting for freedom against Templar control. Players will likely interact with and build up the local Assassin cell.

• Main Campaign Questline (The Return of Lilith)
  A multi-act narrative following the player character's journey across Sanctuary to stop Lilith, Daughter of Hatred, and her plans. This involves investigating her influence, confronting her key followers (like Elias), allying with the Horadrim (Lorath Nahr, Donan), and ultimately facing Lilith herself. Features cinematic storytelling and major boss encounters.
• Side Quests (Regional Stories & Character Vignettes)
  Numerous optional quests found throughout Sanctuary's five regions. These offer self-contained storylines, delve into local lore, explore the struggles of ordinary people, or provide more insight into the game's factions and history. Rewards typically include XP, gold, gear, and Renown.
• Priority Quests (Class-Specific & Key Unlocks)
  Quests that unlock significant gameplay features or are specific to the player's chosen class. This includes quests to unlock mounts, class specializations (e.g., Barbarian's Arsenal System, Druid's Spirit Boons), or access to end-game systems like Nightmare Dungeons or the Occultist.
• Dungeons (Standard & Nightmare Tiers)
  Explore and clear over 100 unique instanced dungeons scattered across Sanctuary. Each dungeon has specific objectives (e.g., slay all enemies, destroy structures, return Animus to a pedestal) and a final boss. Completing a dungeon for the first time often unlocks a Legendary Aspect in the Codex of Power. Nightmare Dungeons are empowered, higher-difficulty versions accessed via Nightmare Sigils, featuring challenging affixes and rewarding Paragon Glyph XP.
• Strongholds
  Conquer three heavily enemy-infested locations in each of the five major regions. This involves defeating waves of enemies, a final boss or event, and then rekindling a Wanderer's Shrine. Liberating a Stronghold transforms it into a friendly outpost, often unlocking new Waypoints, vendors, dungeons, or side quests in the area. Also grants significant Renown.
• World Bosses (Ashava the Pestilent, Avarice the Gold Cursed, Wandering Death, Death Given Life)
  Participate in timed, large-scale public encounters against massive bosses that spawn at specific locations in the open world. Requires multiple players to defeat within a time limit. Rewards include high-quality loot, Legendary items, and weekly bonus caches.
• Legion Events (Gathering Legions)
  Timed public events where players must defend against waves of demons and defeat Overlords to earn rewards and Obols. Multiple players are typically needed for efficient completion.
• Helltide Events
  Participate in region-wide demonic invasions that occur in World Tier 3 and above. Defeat empowered enemies to collect Aberrant Cinders, which are then used to open Tortured Gifts (special chests) scattered throughout the Helltide zone for a chance at targeted Legendary items, Forgotten Souls, and Fiend Roses.
• Tree of Whispers (Grim Favors)
  An end-game system where players complete various bounties (Grim Favors) marked on the map (e.g., clear a specific dungeon, defeat enemies in an area, collect items from corpses). Earning 10 Grim Favors allows the player to return to the Tree of Whispers for a choice of reward caches containing gear and experience.
• Seasonal Questlines & Activities
  Each new season introduces a unique storyline and associated gameplay mechanics or activities that players can engage with on their seasonal characters. Completing these progresses the seasonal journey and unlocks season-specific rewards and Battle Pass tiers.

• Dual Protagonist Main Story Quests
  A series of narrative missions following the intertwined stories of Naoe and Yasuke. Players will experience key historical events, pursue personal vendettas (Naoe) and duties (Yasuke), and uncover the Templar conspiracy in Japan. Many quests can be approached with either character, offering different gameplay solutions.
• Assassination Contracts & Infiltration Missions
  Missions focused on Naoe's shinobi skills, requiring stealthy infiltration of enemy strongholds, gathering intelligence, and eliminating key targets using a variety of tools and assassination techniques.
• Samurai Battles & Stronghold Assaults
  Missions emphasizing Yasuke's samurai prowess, involving direct combat against groups of enemies, duels with skilled warriors, and potentially leading small skirmishes or assaulting fortified positions.
• Spy Network Operations
  Developing and utilizing your network of spies to gather information, identify targets, reveal hidden locations, and potentially trigger unique side missions or opportunities.
• Hideout Development & Crew Quests
  Building and upgrading your customizable shinobi league hideout, which may involve recruiting specialized allies and undertaking quests for them to improve the hideout's capabilities and unlock new resources or gear.
• Exploration & World Activities
  Discovering and completing various activities throughout the open world, such as synchronizing viewpoints, finding collectibles, clearing enemy outposts, and engaging with dynamic world events influenced by weather and seasons.

Available in Standard Edition, Digital Deluxe Edition (included early access to Open Beta, Light-Bearer Mount, Caparison of Faith Mount Armor, Inarius Wings & Murloc Pet in D3/WoW, Amalgam of Rage Mount in WoW, Umber Winged Darkness Cosmetic Set in DI, and Premium Seasonal Battle Pass Unlock), and Ultimate Edition (Deluxe content + Accelerated Seasonal Battle Pass Unlock with 20 Tier Skips and Wings of the Creator emote). Various pre-order bonuses were also offered.

Multiple editions are available: Standard Edition ($69.99 USD), Digital Deluxe Edition ($89.99 USD - includes Sekiryu Character Pack for Naoe and Yasuke, Sekiryu Hideout Pack, 5 skill points, and digital artbook/soundtrack filter in Photo Mode), Gold Edition (includes base game and Season Pass with two upcoming expansions), and Ultimate Edition (includes base game, Season Pass, Ultimate Pack with Sekiryu Character/Hideout Packs, and digital artbook/soundtrack filter). A Collector's Edition ($299.99 USD for PS5/Xbox) includes Ultimate Edition content, steelbook, Naoe & Yasuke diorama statue, artbook, Naoe's katana tsuba replica, world map, and creed wall scroll.

Diablo IV follows a seasonal live-service model. Each season (typically lasting around 3 months) introduces new gameplay mechanics, questlines, a seasonal journey with objectives, a battle pass (free and premium tracks with cosmetic rewards and season boosts), new legendary aspects, unique items, and balance changes. The first major paid expansion, 'Vessel of Hatred,' is announced for late 2024, featuring a new region, class, and story continuation.

A Year 1 roadmap has been revealed, featuring free content like new story quests (e.g., 'The Works of Luis Frois'), parkour system enhancements, Photo Mode updates, and New Game+. A major paid expansion titled 'Claws of Awaji' is planned for late 2025, offering over 10 hours of new content on the island of Awaji with new enemies and a Bō staff weapon for Naoe. This expansion is included in the Gold and Ultimate Editions (via Season Pass) or can be purchased separately. Ubisoft is not using a traditional season pass model but focusing on standalone expansions and free updates.

• Q: Is Diablo IV an always-online game?
  A: Yes, Diablo IV requires a persistent internet connection to play, even for solo content. This is due to its shared open world, seasonal structure, and online social features.
• Q: How many playable classes are there in Diablo IV?
  A: At launch, Diablo IV features five playable classes: Barbarian, Druid, Necromancer, Rogue, and Sorcerer. A sixth class, the Spiritborn, will be introduced with the 'Vessel of Hatred' expansion.
• Q: What is the Renown system?
  A: Renown is a progression system tied to exploring and completing activities within each of Sanctuary's five major regions. Earning Renown (by discovering areas, waypoints, strongholds, side quests, dungeons, Altars of Lilith) unlocks account-wide rewards for that realm (Seasonal/Eternal), such as extra skill points, potion charges, Paragon points, and Obol capacity.
• Q: What are Helltides?
  A: Helltides are timed, region-wide events that occur in the end-game (World Tier 3 and above). During a Helltide, a specific region becomes more dangerous with stronger demons and environmental hazards. Players collect Aberrant Cinders from defeated enemies to open Tortured Gifts (special chests) that contain valuable loot, including crafting materials like Forgotten Souls and Fiend Roses, and have a higher chance for Legendary items.
• Q: Are there PvP zones in Diablo IV?
  A: Yes, Diablo IV features designated PvPvE zones called Fields of Hatred. In these areas, players can attack each other. Defeating other players or monsters yields Seeds of Hatred, which must be purified at an Altar of Extraction to convert them into Red Dust. Red Dust is a currency used to purchase cosmetic rewards. Players carrying unpurified Seeds can be killed and looted by others.
• Q: How does the seasonal content work?
  A: Diablo IV follows a seasonal model (typically lasting 3 months). Each season introduces new gameplay mechanics, a seasonal questline, new legendary aspects and unique items, a seasonal journey with objectives, and a Battle Pass with free and premium tracks offering cosmetic rewards and gameplay boosts (like Smoldering Ashes for XP/gold buffs). Players typically create a new seasonal character to participate, though some progress (like Altars of Lilith, map discovery) can carry over from the Eternal Realm.
• Q: What is the end-game like in Diablo IV?
  A: The end-game primarily revolves around progressing through World Tiers (unlocking higher difficulties and better loot), farming Nightmare Dungeons to level up Paragon Glyphs, participating in Helltide events, defeating World Bosses, completing Whispers of the Dead bounties, engaging in PvP in the Fields of Hatred, and tackling seasonal content. The ultimate challenge is defeating Uber Lilith.

• Q: When will Assassin's Creed Shadows be released?
  A: Assassin's Creed Shadows was released on March 20, 2025.
• Q: What is the setting of Assassin's Creed Shadows?
  A: The game is set in Feudal Japan during the late 16th century, specifically the Azuchi-Momoyama period.
• Q: Who are the main playable characters in Assassin's Creed Shadows?
  A: There are two protagonists: Naoe, a female shinobi from Iga, and Yasuke, an African samurai based on a historical figure. Players can switch between them.
• Q: How do Naoe and Yasuke play differently?
  A: Naoe focuses on stealth, agility, parkour, and assassination using tools like the hidden blade, kusarigama, and shinobi gadgets. Yasuke excels in direct, powerful samurai combat with weapons like katanas, kanabo, and naginatas.
• Q: Is Assassin's Creed Shadows an open-world game?
  A: Yes, it features a large open world of Feudal Japan, comparable in size to Assassin's Creed Origins, with dynamic weather and changing seasons.
• Q: Does Assassin's Creed Shadows have multiplayer?
  A: No, Assassin's Creed Shadows is a single-player experience. Ubisoft is developing a separate standalone multiplayer Assassin's Creed title.
• Q: What historical figures appear in the game?
  A: Oda Nobunaga is a central historical figure. Others from the period are likely to appear, influencing the story and the protagonists.
• Q: Will there be DLC or post-launch content?
  A: Yes, Ubisoft has announced a Year 1 roadmap including free story updates, gameplay enhancements, and a major paid expansion titled 'Claws of Awaji' set for late 2025.

Powered by a heavily updated Blizzard engine, Diablo IV showcases a dark, gritty, and highly detailed visual style, returning to the more gothic aesthetic of earlier Diablo games. Features realistic character models, gruesome enemy designs, detailed environments with dynamic weather and lighting, and impactful spell/ability effects. The game aims for a more grounded and visceral presentation of Sanctuary.

Powered by an updated version of the Anvil engine, Assassin's Creed Shadows aims for a visually stunning depiction of Feudal Japan. Features include detailed environments, realistic character models, dynamic weather systems, changing seasons impacting the world, and advanced lighting. Supports Ray Traced Global Illumination and Reflections, ultra-wide resolutions, uncapped framerate, and various upscalers (DLSS 3.7, FSR 3.1, XeSS 2).

Original score composed by Ted Reedy and Leo Kaliski, featuring dark, orchestral, and atmospheric themes that capture the grim and gothic tone of Sanctuary. Music is dynamic, building intensity during combat and creating a sense of dread or melancholy during exploration. Sound design emphasizes visceral combat impacts, distinct monster vocalizations, environmental ambience, and satisfying loot drop sounds.

Features an original score that blends traditional Japanese instrumentation with orchestral arrangements to evoke the atmosphere of Feudal Japan. Sound design emphasizes environmental realism, weather effects, and distinct combat sounds for each weapon and character.

Features a classic ARPG HUD displaying health and resource (e.g., Mana, Fury, Spirit) globes, an action bar for equipped skills, potion charges, and a mini-map. Inventory is grid-based. Skill tree, Paragon board, character sheet, map, and quest log are accessed via menus. Extensive tooltips explain skills, stats, and item properties.

The UI is an evolution of modern Assassin's Creed games, providing clear information on quests, character status, abilities, and world interactions. Features an 'Immersive Mode' for reduced UI. Supports multilingual voice acting and subtitles. Includes a Photo Mode with various filters and customization options.

Offers a range of accessibility options, including extensive control remapping (PC), subtitle and text size customization, colorblind modes, options for screen shake reduction, persistent targeting options, skill toggle vs. hold options, button remapping for controllers, and audio cues for important gameplay elements like loot drops.

Ubisoft typically includes a range of accessibility options in their titles, such as customizable controls, subtitle and caption adjustments, audio cues, gameplay assists (e.g., aim assist, navigation aids), and visual filters. Specific details for Shadows include extensive customization options in the settings menu.

• Official PC system requirements from Blizzard Entertainment. Performance can vary significantly depending on specific hardware, settings, areas in-game (especially with many enemies, particle effects, or in busy towns), and background applications. An SSD is MANDATORY. Higher settings and resolutions require powerful hardware.
• Laptop Performance Note: Laptop models of listed desktop GPUs will require comparable performance, high TGP (Total Graphics Power), and excellent cooling. **Diablo IV is a demanding title, particularly at higher settings or resolutions, due to its detailed environments, numerous enemies, and complex visual effects.**
• Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P: Maximum TGP is crucial for performance.
• Laptop Consideration: Cooling Thermals: Robust cooling is essential for sustained performance during intense dungeon crawls or world boss fights.
• Laptop Consideration: C P U Power Limits: A strong CPU is needed for managing numerous enemies, AI, physics, and online interactions.
• Laptop Consideration: R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance significantly.
• Laptop Consideration: M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is recommended.
• Optimization Detail: Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS (Super Resolution & Frame Generation - DLSS 3), AMD FSR 2, and Intel XeSS.
• Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: Texture Quality, Shadow Quality, Shader Quality, SSAO, Fog Quality, Clutter Quality, Water Simulation, Anti-Aliasing, and Particle Effects heavily impact performance. Using upscaling is highly recommended for higher resolutions/settings.
• Game Name: Diablo IV

• Official PC system requirements for 'Assassin's Creed Shadows'. An SSD is mandatory for all configurations. Performance will vary based on specific hardware, drivers, and in-game settings. Upscaling technologies (DLSS, FSR, XeSS) are supported and recommended.
• Laptop Performance Note: Assassin's Creed Shadows is a demanding open-world title. For a good laptop experience, a modern gaming laptop with powerful components, high TGP for the GPU, and excellent cooling is essential. Laptop GPUs often perform differently than desktop counterparts with the same name. **Always check specific laptop model reviews for thermal performance and sustained gaming benchmarks.**
• Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P Impact: Total Graphics Power (TGP) is a critical factor for laptop GPU performance. Higher TGP variants will deliver significantly better results. Verify TGP when choosing a laptop.
• Laptop Consideration: Advanced Cooling Thermals: Effective cooling (vapor chambers, multiple fans/heatpipes, good airflow design) is vital to prevent thermal throttling, which can drastically reduce performance during extended gameplay.
• Laptop Consideration: C P U Performance Sustain: A modern, powerful mobile CPU (Intel Core H/HX, AMD Ryzen HS/HX series) that can maintain high clock speeds under load is necessary to avoid bottlenecking high-end GPUs and ensure smooth gameplay in this detailed open world.
• Laptop Consideration: R A M Configuration Speed: 16GB dual-channel RAM is the minimum. For higher settings and resolutions, 32GB is recommended. RAM speed (DDR4 vs DDR5 and specific MHz) also influences performance.
• Laptop Consideration: Display Panel G P U Pairing: Match the GPU's capability to the laptop's display resolution (1080p, 1440p, 4K) and refresh rate (120Hz+). A high-refresh display requires a powerful GPU to be fully utilized.
• Laptop Consideration: M U X Switch N V I D I A Advanced Optimus: Laptops with a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus can provide a noticeable performance boost by allowing the dedicated GPU to directly drive the display.
• Laptop Consideration: Driver Updates O S Optimization: Keep GPU drivers (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) and Windows updated. Utilize game-specific driver profiles and OS settings like Game Mode for optimal performance.
• Optimization Detail: Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS 3.7, AMD FSR 3.1, Intel XeSS 2. Frame Generation technologies are also supported. Essential for achieving target framerates at higher resolutions and settings, especially with Ray Tracing.
• Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: Resolution, Texture Quality, Shadow Quality, Clutter Density, Volumetric Clouds, Water Quality, World Detail, and Ray Tracing options (Global Illumination, Reflections) have a significant impact on performance.
• Game Name: Assassin Creed Shadows

• Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS (Super Resolution & Frame Generation - DLSS 3), AMD FSR 2, and Intel XeSS.
• Key Settings Impact: Texture Quality, Shadow Quality, Shader Quality, SSAO, Fog Quality, Clutter Quality, Water Simulation, Anti-Aliasing, and Particle Effects heavily impact performance. Using upscaling is highly recommended for higher resolutions/settings.

• Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS 3.7, AMD FSR 3.1, Intel XeSS 2. Frame Generation technologies are also supported. Essential for achieving target framerates at higher resolutions and settings, especially with Ray Tracing.
• Key Settings Impact: Resolution, Texture Quality, Shadow Quality, Clutter Density, Volumetric Clouds, Water Quality, World Detail, and Ray Tracing options (Global Illumination, Reflections) have a significant impact on performance.

• G P U T G P: Maximum TGP is crucial for performance.
• Cooling Thermals: Robust cooling is essential for sustained performance during intense dungeon crawls or world boss fights.
• C P U Power Limits: A strong CPU is needed for managing numerous enemies, AI, physics, and online interactions.
• R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance significantly.
• M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is recommended.

• G P U T G P Impact: Total Graphics Power (TGP) is a critical factor for laptop GPU performance. Higher TGP variants will deliver significantly better results. Verify TGP when choosing a laptop.
• Advanced Cooling Thermals: Effective cooling (vapor chambers, multiple fans/heatpipes, good airflow design) is vital to prevent thermal throttling, which can drastically reduce performance during extended gameplay.
• C P U Performance Sustain: A modern, powerful mobile CPU (Intel Core H/HX, AMD Ryzen HS/HX series) that can maintain high clock speeds under load is necessary to avoid bottlenecking high-end GPUs and ensure smooth gameplay in this detailed open world.
• R A M Configuration Speed: 16GB dual-channel RAM is the minimum. For higher settings and resolutions, 32GB is recommended. RAM speed (DDR4 vs DDR5 and specific MHz) also influences performance.
• Display Panel G P U Pairing: Match the GPU's capability to the laptop's display resolution (1080p, 1440p, 4K) and refresh rate (120Hz+). A high-refresh display requires a powerful GPU to be fully utilized.
• M U X Switch N V I D I A Advanced Optimus: Laptops with a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus can provide a noticeable performance boost by allowing the dedicated GPU to directly drive the display.
• Driver Updates O S Optimization: Keep GPU drivers (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) and Windows updated. Utilize game-specific driver profiles and OS settings like Game Mode for optimal performance.