Assassin’s Creed Shadows takes the open-world concept to new heights by integrating dynamic elements that bring the game world to life. These elements, such as the changing Seasons, significantly influence gameplay. Naoe and Yasuke must adapt to varying weather conditions and environmental challenges depending on the current Season, which can affect mission difficulty. Other mechanics, like the Scouts system, are also tied to the seasonal cycle, making it essential to understand how Seasons progress and how they impact gameplay.

In Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Seasons transition based on real-world time. Each Season (Spring, Summer, and Autumn) lasts 140 minutes, while Winter spans 180 minutes. There’s no shortcut to accelerate the seasonal cycle, though you can prevent automatic changes or manually trigger a change once the current Season nears its end. This system adds depth to the gameplay, encouraging players to strategize and adapt their approach based on the environment.

To track when a Season will end, navigate to the World tab in the main menu. Look for the compass in the upper right corner of the map, which features a circular progress bar indicating the time remaining. When the bar fills up, completing a mission, fast traveling, or pressing the right directional button in the World menu will trigger a Season change. If the bar is halfway full and you perform one of these actions, it will refresh the map without transitioning to a new Season.

Season transitions don’t occur automatically unless you fast travel or complete a mission. This gives players control over the timing of Season changes. For instance, during Spring, increased vegetation can aid in stealth, while Fall’s frequent weather changes can provide cover during heavy rain, making it easier to infiltrate enemy locations. While some players might prefer the option to change Seasons instantly, this system in Assassin’s Creed Shadows can still be a valuable strategic tool when used effectively.