Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Steam vs. Keys – Is the 50% Off Real?
Assassin's Creed Shadows: Steam Sale vs. Key Deals
Holidays have arrived early in Feudal Japan. Assassin's Creed Shadows has hit a historic low on Steam at 50% off ($34.99). But is this truly the best deal, or can the key market offer better value? Let’s verify the numbers before you buy.
The "Price Problem": Is 50% Off Enough?
The standard price for Assassin's Creed Shadows sits at a hefty $69.99. The current Steam promotion brings this down to $34.99.
On paper, this is an excellent offer. However, the "trap" with Ubisoft titles on Steam is the platform layer. Even if you buy on Steam, you are forced to launch the Ubisoft Connect launcher in the background.
This begs the question: if you have to use Ubisoft's launcher anyway, why pay the Steam premium?
The Deal: Steam Key vs. Ubisoft Connect Key
Here is the reality of the market right now. While Steam offers the convenience of your library, comparison engines like Allkeyshop reveal a tight race:
- Steam Direct Price: ~$35.00 (50% Off)
- Allkeyshop Best Price: ~$33.62 (via merchants like Gamivo/K4G using discount coupons).
The Verdict: The price gap is currently narrow—only about $1 – $2.
- Buy on Steam if: You absolutely require the game to be visible in your Steam Library and want the simplified updates managed by Valve.
- Buy via Allkeyshop if: You want to squeeze every cent of value. This is especially true if you are looking for the Gold/Ultimate Editions. Key sellers often offer significantly better scaling discounts on the premium editions compared to the official store's flat rates.
Which AC Shadows Edition Should You Choose?
Since the base game is heavily discounted, the upsell becomes attractive.
- Standard Edition: Just the base game. Good for casual players.
- Gold Edition: Includes the Season Pass. With the Claws of Awaji expansion and the upcoming content, this is the "complete" experience.
- Ultimate Edition: Adds cosmetic packs (Sekiryu Gear). Generally not worth the extra cost unless you are a die-hard fan or find a massive key discount.
Ubisoft Connect vs Steam: Activation Warning Crucial Note:
Most keys found on comparison sites for Assassin's Creed Shadows are for Ubisoft Connect, NOT Steam.
If you buy a key for ~$33, you will likely receive a code to redeem directly on Ubisoft's app. You will not have the game in your Steam list.
Since the Steam version launches Ubisoft Connect anyway, the performance is identical. Only the library organization is different.
Final Thoughts: Path of the Smart Shopper
The Steam -50% Weekend Deal is a solid, safe entry point for most gamers. However, smart shoppers should check the comparison below for the Gold Edition prices, where the real savings usually hide.
Whether you choose the path of the Samurai (Steam) or the Shinobi (Keys), Feudal Japan awaits.
Are you picking up AC Shadows during this sale, or are you waiting for a deeper drop in 2026? Let us know in the comments!
Christ Diane Abella is a writer and contributor focused on delivering clear, insightful, and well-researched coverage for readers.
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