Imagine stepping into the multifaceted world of Assassin’s Creed Shadows set to release on March 20, 2025, exclusively for Xbox Series X|S. This time around, the game lets you dive into the lives of two vastly different characters: Naoe, the stealthy ninja, and Yasuke, the formidable samurai. Each character is equipped with a unique arsenal of weapons that defines their fighting styles. Let’s break down these weapons to help you strategize for any combat situation you might face within the expansive world of Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
Yasuke’s Arsenal
Long Katana
A samurai without a katana is like a painter without a brush. Yasuke’s long katana isn’t just a weapon—it’s an extension of his precision and power. It’s incredibly swift, allowing Yasuke to slice through adversaries with razor-sharp finesse. Although it lacks in range, its fast strikes make it perfect for cutting through smaller groups or for when you just feel the need to channel your inner samurai as you dispatch wandering foes who dare to challenge you.
Naginata
For those who prefer to manage a crowd of enemies, the Naginata is a fantastic choice with its sweeping attacks. Although it’s slower compared to the katana, its extended reach allows you to keep threats at bay, making it a strategic asset when fighting opponents armed with naginatas.
Kanabo
Embrace brute strength with the Kanabo, a formidable club that trades speed for sheer destructive power. Even its lighter blows can break through defenses, rapidly wearing down any opponent’s armor—along with their health. However, patience is required, as its cumbersome heft can make Yasuke vulnerable amidst large groups where multiple foes can disrupt his powerful swings.
Bow
A silent but deadly tool in any stealthy approach, Yasuke’s bow can silently eliminate guards from afar. Special abilities can slow down time for precision shooting or allow rapid arrow firing, making the bow an excellent option even during intense combat.
Teppo
When discretion isn’t necessary, the teppo rifle’s deafening roar announces its impactful power. However, with its attention-grabbing blasts, prepare for a quick weapon switch after each shot for melee combat. It offers more than point-and-shoot utility, with abilities that can turn it into a devastating melee tool or explosive weapon for crowd control.
Naoe’s Arsenal
Katana
Naoe turns the katana into an acrobatic weapon through a playful blend of combat and agility. Mid-speed by its nature, in her hands, the katana excels in versatility, combining kicks, flips, and slashes, making it a perfect fit for single enemies and smaller packs.
Tanto/Hidden Blade
With lightning-fast speed, Naoe’s tanto paired with her Hidden Blade turns her into a relentless whirlwind of strikes. Though its range is limited, its rapid attacks are ideal for close-encounters. A mastery upgrade lets her perform dual assassinations, adding more thrill to her dagger gameplay.
Kusarigama
The Kusarigama, a blend of scythe and chain, offers unmatched flexibility. Quick, scythe-led light attacks give way to sweeping, ball-end heavy strikes suitable for groups. Its extensive reach keeps enemies at bay, and passive abilities allow for dramatic assassinations, making it a standout in chaotic skirmishes.
Tools
Although Naoe forgoes traditional ranged arms, her arsenal includes tools like kunai and shuriken for tactical advantages. Their quick, precise throws are potent against unarmored foes or can disorient enemies, creating opportunities for decisive strikes.
Developing and Enhancing Your Gear
In Assassin’s Creed Shadows, personalizing and enhancing your weapons caters to a dynamic gaming experience. Mastery tabs are available to upgrade damage or unveil new abilities while weapon levels must align with your character’s rank, upgradeable at your Hideout’s Forge. Various rarity tiers add unique bonuses such as extra crit chances, making each piece of gear vital for combat.
As players sharpen their assassin skills and hone strategies, any weapon combination can lead to success. Heightened health and skill will ensure victory over your adversaries.
And don’t forget, Assassin’s Creed Shadows will officially launch on March 20, 2025, for Xbox Series X|S. A pre-order through Microsoft Store grants access to the exclusive Claws of Awaji expansion and the Thrown to the Dogs quest, with further benefits in the Digital Deluxe Edition, featuring the Sekiryu Dual Pack and much more. Ready your blades, immerse in the Feudal era, and blaze your path in this epic action-adventure.