Should You Play Canon Mode in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?

Assassin’s Creed Shadows has a ton of options for you to pick between and switch on or off when you first start the open-world RPG. One of the most alluring options is Canon Mode given its name and what it does for your playthrough. But should you actually use Canon Mode in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?

What Is Canon Mode?

Canon Mode is exactly what it sounds like: you will play through the main story the way that Ubisoft intends for it to be. It is similar in some ways to how there was a male and female Eivor in Valhalla, but there was a canonical option. This is the mode in which you play exactly how Ubisoft designed the plot to be.

That said, this game is also heavily based around history. There are some historical facts you can’t change, but some choices throughout. Canon Mode robs you of those choices and ensures you have to play a certain way. This could mean sparing one person or killing another and having to stick with it.

Should You Turn On Canon Mode in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?

In my opinion, there is no real benefit to playing Canon Mode in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. This is because you rob yourself of options otherwise. You can still play canonically if you have it off; you’ll just have to make the same decisions. This is why it is best to turn it off since you will be able to make your own choices.

For instance, you might agree with the canonical option of sparing this person, but disagree in another area. Having it off allows you to cater to your preferences and also play as Naoe or Yasuke in certain parts, rather than having it chosen for you. You don’t miss out with Canon Mode off, and the game just plays better in my opinion this way.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is available right now for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.