Assassin’s Creed Shadows Release Times & How to Play Early

Assassin's Creed Shadows Release Date & Early Access Guide

The wait for Assassin's Creed Shadows is almost over, and the excitement is palpable. Ubisoft has provided us with the complete launch schedule, but it varies by platform. Whether you're on PlayStation, Xbox, Steam, or Ubisoft Connect, knowing the precise release time can enable you to get in as early as possible. Here's everything you need to know.

Assassin's Creed Shadows PS5 & Xbox Release Time

If you're playing on PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X/S, Assassin's Creed Shadows launches at midnight local time on March 19. Those playing in other regions will receive access at a different time.

How to Play Early Using the New Zealand Trick

Have to play sooner than your area's release? You can utilize the New Zealand trick:

1. Go to our Xbox settings.
2. Go to Language and Location and change your location to New Zealand. 
3. Restart your console. 

New Zealand hits midnight before most of the world, so this trick gets you playing the game early. This can only be done on Xbox, as PlayStation requires purchasing from the New Zealand store. 

Assassin's Creed Shadows Steam Release Time

Unlike consoles, Steam follows a global simultaneous launch at midnight ET on March 20. Here's how that rolls out across time zones:

• 9 PM PT (March 19)
• 12 AM ET
• 1 AM BRT
• 4 AM GMT
• 5 AM CET
• 8 AM GST
• 1 PM JST
• 3 PM AEDT
• 5 PM NZDT

Midnight CST (China)

Assassin's Creed Shadows Ubisoft Connect Release Time

Ubisoft Connect has a staged launch schedule, so your availability will be determined by server locations. Here's when the game is available:

• 9 PM PT, March 19
• 10 PM CT, March 19
• 12 AM ET, March 20
• 1 AM BRT, March 20
• 10 PM GMT, March 19
• 11 PM CET, March 19
• 2 AM GST, March 20
• 8 PM CST, March 19
• 9 PM JST, March 19
• 11 PM AEDT, March 19

How to Play Assassin's Creed Shadows as Early as Possible

If you're willing to play Assassin's Creed Shadows earlier than your region's official release, the following are your best options:

On Xbox: Use the New Zealand trick to access the game on March 18 in many regions.

On PC (Ubisoft Connect): Use a VPN to set your location to New Zealand and unlock the game early.

On Steam: Unfortunately, Steam’s global release schedule prevents early access, so you’ll have to wait for the official launch.

Final Thoughts

Due to region-based restrictions and staggered launch times, playing Assassin's Creed Shadows early requires planning. Using the New Zealand trick or a VPN on PC, you can play feudal Japan ahead of time. Check your platform's schedule and get ready for an epic Assassin's Creed experience.