Coming soon to Xbox Series X|S on March 20, 2025, Assassin’s Creed Shadows gives you the unique experience of stepping into the shoes of two very different characters: Naoe and Yasuke. Naoe is a nimble ninja, while Yasuke is a formidable samurai, each bringing their own distinct personalities and weaponry to the forefront. Your choice of weapons and accompanying strategies will differ significantly depending on which character you choose to embrace. Here’s an overview of the diverse armory awaiting you in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, designed to help you prepare for every combat situation.
Yasuke’s Arsenal
Long Katana
For Yasuke, his long katana embodies the essence of a samurai—swift and lethal. This weapon allows him to deftly dispatch his foes, making it a perfect choice for taking on smaller groups or for those solo combat moments when you want to channel your inner samurai spirit.
Naginata
A formidable polearm, the Naginata is ideal for managing larger crowds. It might lack in speed compared to the katana, but its impressive range keeps enemies at bay, making it especially handy when matched against similarly armed adversaries.
Kanabo
The Kanabo packs a serious punch, ideal for when brute force triumphs over agility. Swinging this colossal club can shatter defenses and armor alike, though it does leave Yasuke somewhat exposed during heavy attacks in crowded battles.
Bow
A stealth lover’s dream, Yasuke’s bow is perfect for silently removing threats from afar. With certain abilities, you can efficiently engage multiple foes even at a distance, making the bow an excellent backup in intense battles.
Teppo
When subtlety doesn’t matter, the teppo rifle delivers on power but at the cost of attracting attention. While it delivers a serious bang, be prepared to switch quickly to melee combat as reloading can leave you vulnerable.
Naoe’s Arsenal
Katana
Naoe’s katana style is as much about acrobatics as it is about slashing. Her medium-speed attacks blend flips with strikes, making it versatile whether dueling a single opponent or handling a group.
Tanto/Hidden Blade
The tanto, paired with the Hidden Blade, lets Naoe unleash quick, effective close-quarters attacks. Though limited in reach, its speed and potential for dual assassinations make it perfect for silently dealing with enemies when up close.
Kusarigama
The Kusarigama offers a blend of quick scythe strikes and wide-sweeping metal ball attacks, making it Naoe’s most adaptable weapon. Its extended range encourages keeping a safe distance while tidying up enemy ranks with ease.
Tools
Instead of traditional ranged weaponry, Naoe employs throwable tools to quietly eliminate or debilitate her foes. Her kunai can take out enemies quietly, while shuriken serve to stun and disrupt in the heat of battle.
Enhancing Gear
In Assassin’s Creed Shadows, upgrading your weapons is essential to maintaining dominance on the battlefield. Through mastery tabs, you can enhance damage output and unlock new abilities across various weapon types. Pay attention to weapon levels since you can’t equip a weapon higher than your current player level. But worry not, by using the Forge at your Hideout, you can upgrade and optimize your arsenal.
An array of rarity levels awaits you: Common, Uncommon, Rare, Epic, and Legendary weapons each offer different perks and slots for customization. Whether you’re focusing on enhancing critical hit chances or maximizing adrenaline gains, there’s a blend of strategic options available for tailored playstyles. Regardless of the combination, a skilled Assassin will discover the strengths of each weapon.
In anticipation of the game’s release, there’s still an opportunity to pre-order Assassin’s Creed Shadows, particularly on the Microsoft Store for Xbox. The gripping Claws of Awaji expansion and the engaging Thrown to the Dogs bonus quest are free for early adopters. Moreover, the Digital Deluxe Edition is a treasure trove of exclusive gear, providing even more for dedicated players.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows invites players to traverse the breathtaking landscapes of Feudal Japan, jumping between the shadows with Naoe and battling with precision as Yasuke. Customize your journey, craft alliances, and revel in this dynamic narrative. The countdown to March 20, 2025, has begun, offering endless encounters and adventures!
