Ubisoft continues to push the boundaries with each new installment in the *Assassin’s Creed* series, and *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is no exception. Early insights suggest that *Shadows* could be the most expansive entry to date, both in ambition and scope, as well as in file size.

According to a listing on the Apple App Store, *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* will demand a hefty 123GB of storage space at launch. This marks a significant increase compared to earlier games in the series. For example, *Assassin’s Creed Origins* launched with a 42.3GB file size, while *Assassin’s Creed Odyssey* was slightly larger at 45GB. Even *Assassin’s Creed Valhalla*, considered one of the most extensive entries, started at just 50GB.

These figures reflect only the initial launch sizes. Over time, major updates and DLC expansions have significantly increased the size of these games. *Valhalla*, for instance, expanded to a massive 158GB after several expansions. With *Shadows* already confirmed to receive post-launch content, its file size is likely to grow. If you’re planning to play *Shadows* on release day, it’s advisable to clear some space on your SSD.

It’s worth noting that *Valhalla* eventually received an update that reduced its file size, optimizing storage without cutting content. Ubisoft may adopt a similar strategy for *Shadows* in the future, but for now, players should prepare for a large download.

### Why is *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* So Big?

The increase in file size isn’t solely due to higher-resolution textures or larger open-world maps—though they do play a role. Several key factors contribute to *Shadows’* substantial footprint:

#### 1. **A More Detailed Open World**

Ubisoft promises a historically rich and immersive rendition of Feudal Japan in *Shadows*, featuring detailed environments, expansive cities, and vast countryside areas. The increased fidelity and density of NPCs, buildings, and interactable objects necessitate considerable storage space.

#### 2. **Dual Protagonists and More Complex Animations**

For the first time in the series, *Shadows* will feature two distinct protagonists with unique playstyles: Yasuke, a powerful samurai, and Naoe, a skilled shinobi. This dual-character approach requires more animations, varied combat mechanics, and additional narrative depth, all contributing to a larger file size.

#### 3. **Enhanced AI and Physics Systems**

Ubisoft is incorporating advanced AI behavior, improved physics, and dynamic weather effects that alter player interaction with the world. These technological advancements increase the game’s storage requirements.

#### 4. **Bigger and Better Audio Design**

Audio is a significant, though less obvious, contributor to file size. *Shadows* is expected to feature a fully voiced Japanese audio track, along with English and other languages, resulting in a larger quantity of high-quality sound files. Additionally, the game’s soundtrack aims to authentically capture Feudal Japan’s atmosphere.

Whatever the reasons, *Shadows* is shaping up to be a massive game, both in content and storage needs.

### *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* Marks the Series’ Return to macOS After 14 Years

For longtime Apple users and *Assassin’s Creed* fans, *Shadows* is noteworthy as it marks the first mainline entry in the franchise to be released on macOS since *Assassin’s Creed Revelations* in 2011.

When *Revelations* launched, it concluded Ezio Auditore’s saga, capping off what many consider the golden era of *Assassin’s Creed*. After that, Ubisoft largely abandoned macOS as a platform for its flagship franchise.

Now, over a decade later, *Assassin’s Creed* is returning to Apple computers with *Shadows*. This move reflects Ubisoft’s broader effort to make the franchise more accessible to a wider audience. The company has made several consumer-friendly decisions in recent years, including reinstating day-one releases on Steam and revisiting older titles like *Far Cry 3* to keep them relevant.

### Why Bring *Assassin’s Creed* Back to Mac Now?

The decision to bring *Assassin’s Creed* back to macOS coincides with Apple’s major advancements in gaming. With the transition to Apple Silicon and the introduction of the M1, M2, and M3 chips, Mac computers have become more powerful and gaming-capable. Developers are increasingly utilizing Metal API for better optimization on macOS devices.

Additionally, Apple’s push into gaming, through initiatives like Apple Arcade and improved game support on the Mac App Store, likely influenced Ubisoft’s decision. The gaming industry is shifting towards broader accessibility, with more developers targeting multiple platforms, including Mac. *Shadows* arriving on macOS is part of this larger trend.

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