A Claws of Awaji Breakdown

AC Shadows DLC Review (PS5) – Epic Bo Staff, But…

When Ubisoft dropped the Claws of Awaji DLC trailer, I was hyped. A Japan-based expansion with new gear and some fresh lore? Say less. I’m into martial arts, Japanese storylines, and stealthy vibes—so this had my attention from the jump.

Nowaki Was Fire – But the Story Felt Meh

Let’s start with the good. That boss fight with Nowaki the Ambusher? 🔥 Easily the best part of this DLC. Add in the vanguard fight and some cool new island areas to explore, and it had moments that pulled me in. The Bo staff was also a huge win—clean animations, smooth combos, and just a dope weapon to wield. Ubisoft definitely nailed that one.

But story-wise… it felt off. I thought we’d get to play as Tsuyu (Naoe’s mother), and that would’ve been sick. A proper flashback arc where you play both Tsuyu and Naoe could’ve added emotional depth and tied things together. But nope—we missed that opportunity.

The Final Boss Fight… a Big Miss

Now, let’s talk about the final boss. Honestly? Worst final boss experience I’ve had in the Assassin’s Creed series. And that’s saying something. I liked her as a character, but the fight mechanics were broken. I played it on Expert and even switched to Story Mode, and I still ran into bugs.

Dodging didn’t feel responsive, and parrying felt completely off. At one point, I got stuck mid-fight in some weird glitch—wasn’t even near a corner or anything. And when I tried to dodge, it just pulled me into her attack instead of away. That’s not a skill issue. That’s just bad design or a bug.

Final Verdict: 3/5 UPS

This DLC had potential. I loved the Bo staff, enjoyed fighting Nowaki, and the island setting was solid. But everything else? Repetitive. And that final boss fight was straight-up frustrating. For a game that’s all about precision and stealth, this just didn’t land right.

Still, if you’re deep into Assassin’s Creed Shadows, it might be worth grabbing for the gear and the vibes—but manage your expectations.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows DLC – Claws of Awaji now available. Buy now!