Game Scoop! Episode 803: The Spoiler-Free Assassin’s Creed Shadows Episode
Release Date: March 21, 2025
Host: Damon Hatfield with Sam Claiborne and Mark Medina

Introduction

In this episode of Game Scoop!, host Damon Hatfield, alongside co-hosts Sam Claiborne and Mark Medina, dives deep into the latest installment of the Assassin’s Creed series—Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Skipping past the initial advertisements, the trio focuses on delivering a spoiler-free analysis, ensuring listeners can engage without prior exposure to the episode’s discussions.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows Review

Overview and Initial Impressions

Damon introduces Assassin’s Creed Shadows, highlighting its long-awaited release after multiple delays. The game is set in Feudal Japan, a setting fans have eagerly anticipated.

[02:05] Mark Medina: "It is a bonafide banger."

The initial reception from IGN's reviewer gives the game an 8 out of 10, aligning with sentiments from other media outlets.

Gameplay Mechanics

The hosts discuss their gameplay experiences, emphasizing exploration over story progression. Damon shares his approach:

[03:13] Damon Hatfield: "I just do what I always do in Assassin's Creed games and run around and explore and do outposts and castles and climb towers and uncover the map."

Sam and Mark concur, appreciating the freedom to explore and engage with various game elements without being tethered strictly to the main storyline.

Character Choices and Abilities

A significant focus is placed on the character selection between Yasuke and Now. While Yasuke offers a traditional assassin experience with unique skills, Now provides enhanced mobility and combat capabilities.

[12:35] Sam Claiborne: "They established her as like, you know, like an Assassin's Creed Assassin. Right. Like, that is. She's a natural, like super talented assassin, but has shinobi training."

The grappling hook feature introduced with Now revolutionizes navigation, allowing for swift climbs and escapes:

[14:20] Sam Claiborne: "I really recommend it. It's super cool... you just rarely need that stuff. You usually just like zip upwards and run as far, fast as you can and then hang off the side of a castle."

Visuals and Graphics

The trio is unanimous in praising the game's stunning visuals, describing it as possibly the "prettiest video game" available.

[25:54] Sam Claiborne: "I just thought it was so different, it's much more refined, it feels like a next-gen game. It feels like nothing I've ever played before."

Mark adds, highlighting the dynamic weather and seasonal changes that enhance the immersive experience:

[29:43] Sam Claiborne: "The snow is incredible... there's also, like, mixed ice and water areas."

AI and Game Design

While applauding many aspects, the hosts note that enemy AI remains traditional to the Assassin’s Creed series, occasionally leading to predictable encounters.

[33:39] Sam Claiborne: "It's the same old stuff. It's like very Assassin's Creed, Right?"

However, they appreciate features like the "wanted level" system, which escalates challenges based on player actions.

Nintendo Switch 2 Rumors and Upcoming Releases

Shifting gears, the hosts speculate on the Nintendo Switch 2 release window, with prevailing rumors pointing towards a June 26 launch.

[42:06] Mark Medina: "It sounds like it's gonna be out by June 26."

They discuss the potential impact of this release, comparing it to previous Nintendo milestones and expressing excitement for the upcoming Mario Kart sequel and other anticipated titles.

Listener Emails

Devin from Klamath Falls on ODST Start Screen

Devin raises a question about the ODST (Orbital Drop Shock Troopers) start screen in a previous episode, wondering if players commonly engage with pre-title content.

[45:25] Damon Hatfield: "Does anyone at Camp Goose watch the optional part before the start screen with every video game they play?"

The hosts debate the importance of such content, drawing parallels to iconic game openings like Horizon Zero Dawn.

Kylie Daniel on White Knuckle Scoring Update

Kylie provides an update on the White Knuckle Scoring compilation album, sharing insights into its unique promotional strategy aimed at youth literacy.

[49:47] Sam Claiborne: "They included a completely unhinged comic book in the liner notes... Luigi teaches Yoshi to read in the process."

The discussion delves into the obscure and humorous elements of the album's promotion, highlighting its blend of gaming culture with educational goals.

Finale of Paradise Discussion

The hosts briefly touch upon the finale of the TV show Paradise, critiquing its resolution and character developments.

[53:00] Damon Hatfield: "The mystery of who killed the President was the least interesting part of the show."

They express anticipation for the second season, hoping for more engaging storylines and character arcs.

Video Game 20 Questions: "Ruffy in the Riverside"

In the segment Video Game 20 Questions, the hosts attempt to guess the game "Ruffy in the Riverside" based on listener Tracy's clues. Despite numerous attempts, including questions about gameplay style and platform exclusivity, the team struggles to identify the game, ultimately revealing it as a forthcoming 3D platformer set for release on June 26 across multiple platforms.

[42:14] Damon Hatfield: "It's a 3D platformer that's coming out... June 26 this summer."

Conclusion

Damon wraps up the episode by reiterating his enthusiasm for Assassin’s Creed Shadows, encouraging listeners to experience the game firsthand.

[71:25] Damon Hatfield: "We're having a great time with it. I'm gonna be playing it for the foreseeable future."

The episode concludes with previews of co-hosts' other podcast ventures, inviting listeners to explore more content within the Geek Media network.

Notable Quotes:

• Mark Medina [02:05]: "It is a bonafide banger."
• Sam Claiborne [12:35]: "They established her as like, you know, like an Assassin's Creed Assassin."
• Sam Claiborne [25:54]: "I just thought it was so different, it's much more refined, it feels like a next-gen game."
• Damon Hatfield [45:25]: "Does anyone at Camp Goose watch the optional part before the start screen with every video game they play?"
• Sam Claiborne [49:47]: "They included a completely unhinged comic book in the liner notes."

Final Thoughts:

Episode 803 of Game Scoop! provides an in-depth and engaging discussion on Assassin’s Creed Shadows, enriched with personal experiences and critical analysis from the hosts. By addressing listener feedback and exploring broader gaming topics, the episode ensures both longtime fans and new listeners find value and entertainment.