The upcoming Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set to bring a host of new stealth mechanics, with the standout feature being the ability to go prone. This addition enhances gameplay, offering players new ways to execute creative and low-profile assassinations. Among these, prone assassinations have drawn attention for their unique blend of practicality and humor, introducing a playful dimension to the game’s intense stealth action.
A video showcasing this mechanic features Naoe, one of the protagonists, performing a sleek prone assassination. She rolls out of the grass, slices a guard’s leg to bring them down, finishes them with her hidden blade, and immediately returns to a prone position—all without breaking stealth. The sequence is not only efficient but also highly entertaining, highlighting the versatility of this new gameplay style.
The developers have employed motion capture to ensure smooth and realistic animations, adding to the fluidity of moves like Naoe’s acrobatics. This level of physical detail has been praised by fans and actors alike. Ralph Ineson, who contributed to Black Flag, recently remarked on the importance of physicality in earlier games compared to later ones, noting that the detailed movements in Shadows bring back the immersive quality many players have missed.
Both Naoe and Yasuke, the game’s protagonists, can go prone, but Naoe has an edge with her ability to roll in multiple directions. This distinction emphasizes their different combat styles and physical characteristics, as Yasuke’s larger frame limits his movement but raises curiosity about his unique stealth tactics. The variety between the characters adds depth to the gameplay, making each encounter feel fresh and engaging.
Humor and surprise have long been part of the Assassin’s Creed series, even amidst its darker and more violent moments. Memorable scenes from earlier games, like unexpectedly dramatic kill animations, have often delighted players with their over-the-top execution. With Shadows embracing the playful potential of prone mechanics, it seems poised to continue this tradition of blending action with amusement in a compelling way.
