For years, players have begged video games to let them pet the dogs and cats. Entire social media accounts exist just to celebrate this digital affection. In 2026, that trend shows no signs of slowing down. Ubisoft's Assassin's Creed Shadows, which launched in 2025 and has since received a steady stream of updates, once again lets players pet animals. But this time, it accidentally stumbles into Pokémon territory. Who knew a samurai stealth epic could feel like a creature-collecting adventure?
At first glance, Pokémon and Assassin's Creed Shadows have nothing in common. One is a family-friendly franchise about catching adorable monsters. The other follows an assassin and a samurai slicing through 16th-century Japan. Yet look closer, and there's a feature that shares DNA with Nintendo's juggernaut. It doesn't change how players approach combat or stealth, but the pet-collecting system is a delightful little addition.
Throughout the game, players encounter a wide variety of dogs and cats. Petting a new type for the first time adds it to their collection. That collection then allows them to place the animal in their hideout. The hideout can become a bustling menagerie of cute creatures. It gives the experience a gotta-catch-em-all feel. Players roam the world hoping to pet every furry friend. Isn't that exactly what Pokémon trainers do, except with fewer Poké Balls and more head scratches?
Luckily, petting is not the only way to gather these animals. Players can unlock pets by completing certain quests, like the Thrown to the Dogs pre-order quest. Some merchants sell unique pets under the Hideout tab, including an Ox. And if that wasn't enough, there's a chance to unlock special animals after completing a Sumi-e Painting. With all these methods, there is seemingly no shortage of collecting to be had.
Here's a quick breakdown of the pet sources:
| Source | Example | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Petting new animals | Dogs, cats | First-time petting adds to collection |
| Quests | Thrown to the Dogs | Pre-order quest reward |
| Merchants | Ox | Sold under Hideout tab |
| Sumi-e Painting | Special animals | Completion bonus |
| Post-launch updates | New pets | Added with new lands and content |
This pet feature feels very similar to Pokémon. Some players may spend hours trying to collect every pet that Assassin's Creed Shadows offers. But unlike Pokémon, there is no way to battle other pets. There are no evolution mechanics. These animals are meant to resemble real-world creatures from 16th-century Japan. So, no, a Shiba Inu won't suddenly evolve into a majestic Fire-type. But as a fun optional cosmetic, it makes for a pretty great addition to the formula.
Could Ubisoft take it even further? Absolutely. Already, a special pet is offered through the pre-order quest. There is no reason Ubisoft could not add even more pets through post-launch content. New lands bring new pets waiting to be discovered. Some players would likely love to add even more to their Hideout. Of course, the core story and content need to be worth it, but as an additional cosmetic, more pets seem like an easy win.
In 2026, Assassin's Creed Shadows has had time to grow. Updates have expanded the world, and the pet collection has grown alongside it. For those who love making their Hideout even better, these collectible pets are a nice addition. Ubisoft likely did not actually take cues from Pokémon for this feature. Still, it gives the game a bit of that same feeling. Plus, it serves as a great incentive to actually pet all of those animals running around.
So what's the harm in a little digital petting? None. In fact, it might be the most wholesome thing an assassin can do between missions. Whether players are sneaking through castles or painting serene landscapes, they can always stop to scratch a cat behind the ears. And if that cat happens to join the Hideout collection, well, that's just one more reason to keep exploring. After all, who wouldn't want a hideout full of loyal dogs, curious cats, and the occasional ox? 🐕🐈🐂