Ubisoft is releasing a free DLC for Assassin's Creed Mirage titled 'Valley of Memory,' which will add a new story chapter, missions, and a location—the ancient Arabian city of AlUla.

The update will introduce approximately six hours of gameplay, including a new region, map, main quest, and assassination targets, set before the game's finale.

This expansion features new skills like 'Engineer 2,' and offers more customization options, enhancing replayability and challenge for players.

The DLC's setting, AlUla, is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Saudi Arabia, chosen for its historical significance and visual appeal, with development beginning only last year.

Ubisoft collaborated with archaeologists and historians to faithfully recreate AlUla's landmarks, marketplaces, oasis farms, and necropolises, emphasizing its rich history.

Despite the content's depth, the storyline and setting are not what fans specifically requested, making the free release somewhat surprising, though it aligns with Ubisoft's storytelling focus.

The development of the DLC was influenced by a meeting between Ubisoft and Savvy Games, a Saudi-backed company, and the region's selection aligns with the series' themes of exploration.

There is controversy surrounding the DLC, as it was funded by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), raising concerns about 'gameswashing' and human rights issues, including the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

Ubisoft has not officially confirmed PIF's involvement but states that they maintained full creative control and chose AlUla based on its cultural and creative potential.

The announcement has sparked discussions among fans about the new story content and the strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia, with some critics questioning the ethical implications.

Ubisoft has emphasized that the DLC is developed independently, and the content aims to deepen the narrative of Basim, exploring his background and his journey before the events of Assassin's Creed Valhalla.

This marks a significant move for Ubisoft, as it is the first time a mainline Assassin's Creed game has received a subsequent DLC after another mainline release, with the full reveal scheduled on Ubisoft's YouTube channel.