We Love It's Guide to…
As hacker Aiden Pearce hunts those responsible for a family tragedy, he turns Chicago’s connected systems into tools for stealth and combat.
Released 26 May 2014
Turn Traffic Into Traps
Scout Through Cameras
Read Strangers’ Data
In today's hyper-connected world, Chicago operates under ctOS, the most advanced computer network in America.
Developed by Ubisoft · Published by Ubisoft









In a near-future Chicago run by the ctOS network, Aiden Pearce uses his hacking skills to pursue those responsible for a tragedy that struck his family. The city’s connected infrastructure and residents’ personal data are central to his investigation.
Use Aiden’s phone to access cameras, gather information, distract or disable enemies, and manipulate city systems such as traffic lights and bridges. Missions mix hacking with stealth, gunfights, close combat, and driving, giving you different ways to approach many situations.
Explore Chicago while following the main story or taking on side missions, investigations, and activities. Unlock skills as you progress, and use gadgets and crafted items alongside weapons; the city also includes minigames and optional challenges.
Positive reviews often highlight the hacking system for making the city’s cameras, traffic, and other infrastructure useful in missions, as well as Chicago’s moody atmosphere and the serious revenge story. Reviewers also appreciate being able to mix stealth, hacking, shooting, and driving. Criticism commonly focuses on repetitive side activities and vehicle handling; many Steam-version reviews also report problems accessing Ubisoft Connect or online features.
| Platforms | Windows |
|---|---|
| Achievements | 49 |
| Age ratings |
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| Players | From 1 (maximum not specified) |
| Play modes |
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| Other modes |
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| Multiplayer | Watch_Dogs has integrated online multiplayer that can occur during the single-player open world. The provided text confirms player invasions and other online modes involving cooperation and confrontation. Reviews mention co-op mini-games, online hacking, tailing/stalking, decryption, racing, free roam with friends, team-deathmatch-like PvP, and a mobile app-connected mode. |
| Multiplayer & mods | One review mentions the Living City mod, but no provided text states that mods add, change, or support multiplayer functionality. Reviews also mention that multiplayer functionality may depend on platform version or launcher/account setup rather than mods. |
| Controller support | Xbox |
| Controller required | No |
| DLC / extras | 4 listed on Steam |
| DRM / EULA |
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| Content notices |
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| Metacritic | 77/100 View on Metacritic |
| Website | Official website |