Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set to release on March 20, 2025, for Xbox Series X|S. Players will assume the roles of two distinct characters: Yasuke, a powerful samurai, and Naoe, an agile ninja. Each character not only provides a unique gameplay experience but also brings different weapons to the fight. Below is a comprehensive overview of the weapons available to Yasuke and Naoe, allowing players to strategize effectively for various combat scenarios.
Yasuke’s Weapons
Long Katana
Yasuke’s long katana is designed for speed and precision. Although it has limited range, its swift attacks are perfect for engaging multiple foes or taking down a single opponent efficiently, embodying the essence of a true samurai.
Naginata
This polearm allows for sweeping attacks that can deal with large groups of enemies. While it is slower than the katana, the naginata offers the longest reach of Yasuke’s melee options, keeping adversaries at bay.
Kanabo
The kanabo is a massive club noted for its overwhelming power. Though it sacrifices speed, even light hits can break enemies’ defenses. Its slow nature leaves Yasuke vulnerable during combat, particularly against swarming attackers.
Bow
A silent and deadly ranged option, the bow allows Yasuke to eliminate enemies from a distance. Enhanced abilities can slow time or enable rapid firing of arrows, making it versatile for stealth and direct combat.
Teppo
The teppo rifle delivers potent shots but draws significant attention. It has a slower reload time, necessitating quick transitions to melee weapons during close engagements. It can also cause area damage by detonating gunpowder, adding another strategic layer to its use.
Naoe’s Weapons
Katana
Unlike Yasuke’s, Naoe’s katana is wielded with a blend of agility and speed, delivering rapid strikes that include kicks and flips. This medium-speed weapon excels during one-on-one confrontations and in close-quarters skirmishes.
Tanto/Hidden Blade
The tanto functions as a swift dagger, allowing Naoe to unleash a rapid flurry of attacks. Though effective at close range, it pairs well with her Hidden Blade for executing dual assassinations when upgraded.
Kusarigama
Combining a scythe with a weighted chain, the kusarigama provides exceptional versatility. Naoe can perform quick strikes or sweeping attacks thanks to its extended reach, making it effective against multiple foes.
Tools
Instead of traditional ranged weapons, Naoe employs throwable tools like kunai and shuriken. The kunai can dispatch unarmored enemies efficiently, while shuriken are useful for distracting opponents during combat.
Upgrading Weapons
Weapon upgrades in Assassin’s Creed Shadows are accomplished through mastery points, which enhance damage and unlock abilities. Players can upgrade lower-level weapons at their Forge to align with their character’s progression. Weapons are categorized into five rarity tiers: Common, Uncommon, Rare, Epic, and Legendary. Higher-tier weapons offer unique engravings that provide distinctive combat advantages, enhancing the player’s strategic options during battles.
With no wrong combinations of weapons in the game, players can experiment to find their ideal loadout. The mastery of both Yasuke and Naoe’s arsenal will be vital in overcoming various challenges on their journey.
Pre-orders for Assassin’s Creed Shadows are currently available, offering the Claws of Awaji expansion and the Thrown to the Dogs bonus quest for free upon release. The Digital Deluxe Edition includes extras such as gear, weapon sets, and customization options for the hideout.