Summary
- Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ first DLC “Claws of Awaji” is targeting a September 2025 release, with a potential October delay.
- The expansion will add 10+ hours of content featuring Awaji Island, new enemies, weapons, skills, and abilities for both protagonists.
- A co-op mode codenamed “League” is also in development and planned for release sometime in 2026.
Ubisoft achieved massive success with the release of Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Now, fans have something even more to look forward to with the upcoming DLC expansion, “Claws of Awaji.” So, here’s what we know about AC Shadows Claws of Awaji Expansion including release, content, and more.
Release Window and Development Status

Exclusive sources revealed that AC Shadows’ continuous development brings Claws of Awaji DLC expansion closer to the September 2025 release date. It’ll be roughly six months after the game’s successful launch in March 2025, creating momentum for this title. While this release might seem fast for some players, Ubisoft is seemingly confident with the expansion.
Some industry insiders also suggest that AC Shadows Claws of Awaji expansion can be pushed back later to October 2025. Ubisoft may potentially have something under its sleeves for the release strategy of upcoming games and downloadable content. Ubisoft is currently careful with its approach to scheduling major releases across its portfolio.
Notably, AC Shadows and post-launch content development remained unaffected despite Ubisoft’s recent announcement. They shared several major intellectual properties pushed back into 2026 and 2027 to focus on AC Shadows. Given this priority, players can probably expect a lot from the upcoming DLC content.
What to Expect from Claws of Awaji

A lot of content to await in this coming AC Shadows Claws of Awaji expansion. It’ll significantly extend players’ time in feudal Japan. According to official announcements, the DLC will have over 10 hours of additional gameplay content that players will enjoy. This makes a sizeable addition compared to a minor story supplement in the game.
Also, it will introduce a new location, Awaji Island, which will be the primary setting for the DLC events. Moreover, the world expansion opens up new exploration opportunities alongside new storylines to players. The island will offer something unique and contribute to the backstory of the game.
When it comes to gameplay enhancements, the players will have new weapon types in their arsenal. This expands the current combat options for characters, Naoe and Yasuke. Alongside there will be new skills, gear, and abilities designed for the dual protagonists of the game. This can improve stealth and combat scenarios in the current AC Shadows.
Co-op Mode Development and Future Content

Ubisoft seeks to offer a new gameplay mode in the upcoming AC Shadows Claws of Awaji expansion. This co-op mode currently operates under the codename “League”, allowing a multiplayer experience in the game. They intend to release this sometime in 2026, extending the game’s lifespan following its launch year.
Moreover, many players assumed the co-op mode to simply utilize the multiplayer element during combat in existing content. However, the insiders reveal it’ll be more complex and exciting than anyone can think of. According to a source, the co-op mode is tied to a deeper narrative that expands the experience beyond the two central characters.
Possibly, there will be additional playable characters beyond Naoe and Yasuke, to introduce new personalities in AC Shadows. Definitely, it won’t be a simple drop-in multiplayer addition but will have its own story elements to affect the play.
Conclusion

The success has come up well for Ubisoft with an upcoming potential release of AC Shadows Claws of Awaji expansion. This will introduce new excitement to avid players of the game with its new weapons, new setting, and storylines to explore. So far, only insiders revealed the release window to be in September 2025 or October 2025, if delays persist. It’ll be best to wait for Ubisoft’s official announcement on AC Shadows Claws of Awaji Expansion release.