Ubisoft has announced a strategic update that includes a delay for Assassin's Creed Shadows, the upcoming entry in the franchise that takes place in feudal Japan. The game, initially scheduled to launch on November 15th, was previously delayed to February 14th, and will now launch on March 20th.

The delay is attributed to the company's renewed focus on gameplay quality and engaging Day-1 experiences. According to a press release, the additional month of development will allow the team to incorporate player feedback gathered over the past three months and create the best conditions for launch. This move is likely a response to the growing importance of Day-1 experiences in the gaming industry, where a smooth and engaging launch can make or break a game's success.

This is not the first time Assassin's Creed Shadows has been delayed. The game was initially scheduled to launch in November, but was pushed to February 14th before this latest delay. The repeated delays may raise concerns about the game's development and the company's ability to meet its deadlines.

Ubisoft has faced a series of challenges in recent months, including disappointing sales of Star Wars Outlaws and the shutdown of XDefiant, a live-service shooter. The company's announcement of "leading advisors" to review and pursue "transformational strategic and capitalistic options" suggests that Ubisoft is exploring ways to revamp its business and extract value for stakeholders.

The delay of Assassin's Creed Shadows may be a sign of Ubisoft's commitment to quality and its willingness to take the time needed to deliver a polished product. However, it also raises questions about the company's ability to manage its development pipeline and meet its own deadlines. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, Ubisoft will need to adapt and find ways to stay competitive in a crowded market.

With the launch of Assassin's Creed Shadows now set for March 20th, fans of the franchise will have to wait a little longer to get their hands on the game. While the delay may be disappointing, it's likely that the extra time will result in a better gaming experience. As Ubisoft navigates this challenging period, it will be important to keep an eye on the company's future moves and how they impact the gaming industry as a whole.