"Explore Assassin’s Creed Shadows Open World: When?"

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* invites players into a vast open world set in Feudal Japan, but you won't be able to roam freely right from the start. Here's when you can begin exploring the open world in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*.

How Long is the Assassin’s Creed Shadows Prologue? Answered

Ubisoft has a history of crafting expansive open worlds, yet they often precede these with lengthy introductions. Fortunately, *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* keeps the wait relatively short before you can dive into the world of Japan.

The game kicks off with a prologue that sets the scene and introduces the dual protagonists, Yasuke and Naoe, representing the Samurai and Shinobi respectively. This section also acquaints players with Iga, Naoe’s homeland, and sets her on a journey beyond its borders. Expect a mix of epic set pieces and narrative exposition, which should take around an hour and a half to complete.

Once you finish the "From Spark to Flame" Quest and establish your Kakurega (Hideout) at Tomiko’s Homestead, the open world becomes yours to explore more freely.

Can You Go Anywhere in Assassin’s Creed Shadows Right Away? Answered

After completing the prologue, you'll find yourself in Izumi Settsu, one of the nine regions available at launch. Initially, your quests and side activities will be centered around this area before expanding to the Yamashiro province.

While the story and certain quests may tether Naoe and Yasuke to specific locations, you can venture into other provinces. However, there are two key factors that might deter you from doing so early on.

Firstly, the lack of quests and activities in other regions at the start means there might not be much to do there initially. As the story progresses, these regions unlock more content. Secondly, *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* incorporates RPG elements, meaning you need to reach a certain level to effectively combat enemies in different provinces. You can check these level requirements on the map; regions marked with a number in a red diamond indicate that you're significantly underleveled, suggesting a challenging, if not impossible, experience if you venture there too soon.

In summary, while you can technically rush to higher-level regions, it's not advisable and could lead to a frustrating gameplay experience.