Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ expansion, Claws of Awaji, is launching on September 16, bringing over 10 hours of new content to the game, furthering the story of Naoe and Yasuke. Set after the main events of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Claws of Awaji will introduce a mysterious new region, Awaji Island.

Awaji is an isolated island, separate from the main game map, full of different biomes such as beaches, swamps and jungles. The island is filled with deadly ambushes, dangerous traps, and Naoe and Yasuke become the target of a powerful and terrifying faction. Enemies on Awaji Island can ambush you when you least expect it; some are even disguised as citizens, so stay on your toes. The expansion will also bring new, unique bosses…but no spoilers here!

At the expansion’s release, all Shadows players will be able to get a new weapon for Naoe – the Bo staff. This weapon can be elevated through multiple legendary Bo Staves, only available in the expansion, that can be found across the island of Awaji. The Bo is a very agile weapon, designed to execute spectacular combos. It can help Naoe attack different enemies in quick sequence or even throw one enemy into another. Players who dive into the expansion will also uncover brand new armor and gear, each featuring fresh designs and abilities.

To prepare for Claws of Awaji, you must finish Shadows’ main story, as the expansion will pick up right where things leave off after completing each of Naoe and Yasuke’s full personal quests.

If you haven’t finished Shadows’ main story – here’s your warning to look away now, as we’re going to spoil the end of it to tease Claws of Awaji’s story.

Still with us? Good. At the end of Shadows, Naoe hears rumors about a mysterious shinobi who is facing a dangerous faction on the island. As Naoe thinks it’s her mother – Tsuyu – she goes there with Yasuke to find out and soon encounter the nefarious faction for themselves.

Claws of Awaji will also incorporate the upcoming level cap increase for its progression, so we recommend hitting at least level 60 before September 16 so you can dive into the action fully prepared and ready to take advantage of the extra levels.  

For those who haven’t played since launch, Assassin’s Creed Shadows has since implemented a number of robust updates, including New Game+, a level cap increase (80, up from 60), Knowledge Rank 9 and 10, Forge Level 4 and 5, a new Animus Hub project, new achievements a new Critical Role-inspired ally, bonus free missions, and the Nightmare Difficulty mode. Multiple community-suggested features have also been added, including new parkour mechanics, greater HUD customization, Photomode improvements, and more.

The expansion will be available for purchase or playable with a Ubisoft+ subscription. We hope you enjoy your time exploring Awaji Island on Xbox Series X|S, September 16!