Summary
- Ubisoft released Assassin’s Creed Shadows in different editions at varying price points.
- The AC Shadows Collector’s Edition Box stands as the premium edition of the game, with a physical copy and a full set of additional collectibles.
- The AC Shadows Collector’s Edition is priced at around $230 USD and can be worth the purchase for long-time and dedicated fans
Despite early criticisms, Assassin’s Creed Shadows continues to be a beloved game after its March 20 launch. The game came in three different editions, with varying content for each price tier. The AC Shadows Collector’s Edition Box, worth $229.99, offers fans a premium gift with both digital and physical content. Let’s break down what you get and whether it justifies the hefty price tag.
AC Shadows Standard and Digital Deluxe Edition Inclusions
As the premium offering among them all, it’s pretty natural for the Collector’s Edition to cost more. In fact, its original pre-order price was $279.99 before the first expansion was made free. But how does it compare to the other, cheaper editions? Let’s first take a look at what the Standard and Digital Deluxe versions have to offer.
The Standard Edition consists only of the base game, which costs $69.99. However, those who pre-ordered it also received the upcoming “Claws of Awaji” expansion for free. The DLC was given as compensation for the game’s delayed release.
Meanwhile, the Digital Deluxe offers a few more inclusions for an additional $20. So, for the total of $89.99, players get:
- The base game
- The “Claws of Awaji” DLC
- The Sekiryu Dual Pack (cosmetic items for both protagonists)
- The Sekiryu Hideout Pack
- 5 Mastery Points
- The “Thrown to the Dogs” bonus pre-order quest
These inclusions are all digital, and can be claimed by players in-game. Everything in the Standard and Digital Deluxe are also included in the Collector’s Edition.
AC Shadows Collector’s Edition Box Inclusions
What sets the AC Shadows Collector’s Edition Box apart are the exclusive physical items that you won’t find anywhere else:
- A stunning 40cm statue featuring Yasuke and Naoe, in battle-ready poses
- A premium SteelBook case with unique artwork of both protagonists
- A 76-page concept art book showcasing the game’s weapons, characters, and environments
- A life-sized replica of Naoe’s katana tsuba (guard) made of zinc alloy
- A detailed fold-out world map of the game’s regions
- An Assassin’s Creed wall scroll (70cm x 30cm)
- Two sumi-e lithographs created by Japanese artist Yoichi Wakui
When you subtract the price of the other editions, you’re basically paying $140-$160 extra for the physical collectibles alone. The Digital Deluxe Edition already covers all digital content for $90.
Is It Worth Buying?
Like all other game-related purchases, the value of the AC Shadows Collector’s Edition Box depends on how invested you are into the game.
If you’re budget-conscious, or are playing Shadows as your first Assassin’s Creed game, purchasing the Standard Edition might be better. Even if you missed the pre-order bonus, you can just buy the DLC when it comes out. You’ll even have more time to save or decide whether you want to invest in it.
Long-time fans who aren’t hardcore into AC Shadows may find better value in the Digital Deluxe Edition. If you’re primarily interested in the game experience itself, this version offers you the complete content. You wouldn’t have to pay for physical items that you might not use or appreciate.
Finally, if you have the money to splurge, or are a dedicated fan, investing in the AC Shadows Collector’s Edition Box is completely worth it. The high-quality statue, art book, and replica items make this a worthwhile addition to your collection. The steelbook is particularly stunning, while the feudal Japan-inspired design elements give the other items their unique appeal.
Conclusion
The AC Shadows Collector’s Edition Box delivers quality collectibles that celebrate this highly anticipated Japan-set Assassin’s Creed adventure. However, at $229.99, it represents a significant investment primarily for physical items rather than exclusive gameplay content.
If you’re a dedicated collector or super-fan of the series who values tangible memorabilia, the limited availability and unique items make this worth considering. For everyone else, the Standard or Digital Deluxe Editions provide the complete gaming experience at a much more reasonable price point
