Assassin’s Creed Shadows Microtransactions Explained
Image Credit: Ubisoft, Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Let’s get this out of the way: yes, Assassin’s Creed Shadows has microtransactions. This probably isn’t shocking news if you’ve played a Ubisoft game in the last five years. Like its recent predecessors, Shadows features an in-game store, premium items, and upcoming paid DLC—but don’t worry, here’s exactly what’s in the store and whether it actually affects how you play.
What Can You Buy in the Store?
The in-game store in AC Shadows sells a variety of items, including:
Legendary gear for Naoe and Yasuke
Cosmetics for your allies and hideout (think: outfits, decorations, shiny things)
Crafting resources to upgrade gear faster
A treasure map that reveals hidden loot and secrets
In other words, you can spend money to look cooler, upgrade faster, or find things easier. These items can give you a small advantage, but remember—this is a single-player game. There’s no leaderboard, no PvP. If someone wants to pay to skip the grind, they’re only racing themselves.
Is It Pay-to-Win?
Technically? Yes.
Practically? Not really.
The game is balanced well without needing anything from the store. You don’t need to spend extra to enjoy the full experience, and you can get through the game comfortably without buying gear, resources, or maps. The grind isn’t heavy, and the store never pushes itself in your face unless you go looking for it.
Can You Get Premium Items Without Paying?
Yes. AC Shadows has a live service system that lets you earn premium gear for free. Here’s how:
Complete time-limited events or mini-missions
Earn in-game currency to spend at The Exchange (a shop with rotating premium items)
You can unlock some great gear this way just by playing normally. You don’t have to chase these events—they’re there if you want them, but easy to ignore if you don’t.
Post-Launch DLC
Ubisoft has already confirmed that Assassin’s Creed Shadows will get DLC after launch.
The first expansion comes in late 2025, with 10+ hours of new content and a new area to explore.
It’s free if you pre-ordered the game.
More DLC is coming, but it’s optional. If you’re into more story and content, great. If not, you won’t miss anything critical by skipping it.
Final Blurb
Microtransactions in Assassin’s Creed Shadows are there if you want them, but easy to ignore if you don’t. Nothing in the store is essential, and the game feels fully complete without spending extra cash. You can grind a bit, earn rewards through gameplay, and enjoy the story at your own pace—no wallet required.
