Launching on March 20, 2025, for the Xbox Series X|S, Assassin’s Creed Shadows lets players dive into the roles of two vastly different warriors: Naoe, a nimble ninja, and Yasuke, a formidable samurai. Their weapons and fighting styles differ significantly, providing players with diverse strategic options. Each character can switch between up to two unique weapon types, enhancing their effectiveness in various combat scenarios. Let’s explore the assortment of weapons available in Assassin’s Creed Shadows to find the best combinations for any situation.
Yasuke’s Arsenal
Long Katana
A samurai’s staple, the long katana, brings speed and precision to Yasuke’s attacks. It’s perfect for slicing through foes swiftly, though it lacks in range. This makes it ideal for smaller skirmishes or when you’re channeling that inner samurai spirit to face-off against a rival ronin.
Naginata
For sweeping maneuvers, the Naginata shines. Despite being slower than the katana, it offers exceptional reach and excels against larger enemy groups. It’s also your best bet when facing foes armed with a Naginata.
Kanabo
When power is prioritized over speed, the Kanabo is Yasuke’s go-to. This heavy club can break through shields with light hits and dismantle tougher foes with ease. It’s mighty but leaves Yasuke exposed to attacks when surrounded.
Bow
The bow introduces a quiet but lethal option for Yasuke. It’s excellent for picking off guards stealthily from afar. Its versatility shines with abilities enabling time-slowing when shooting or quick successive shots, making it viable in direct confrontations too.
Teppo Rifle
If subtlety isn’t your priority, the teppo rifle makes a loud entrance. It delivers powerful shots, though it attracts plenty of attention and requires reloading after each shot. Strategic switching to a melee weapon is necessary when overwhelmed. Beyond shooting, it also functions as a makeshift club for knocking down foes.
Naoe’s Arsenal
Katana
Don’t be deceived: though Naoe also wields a katana, her fighting style transforms it into an acrobatic extension of her agility. Expect kicks, flips, and slashes, making it a versatile choice for one-on-one encounters and small groups.
Tanto/Hidden Blade
The Tanto dagger is a masterclass in speed, especially paired with Naoe’s Hidden Blade. It requires close proximity but devastates singular foes. Plus, with a mastery upgrade, Naoe can perform dual assassinations, assuming you’ve equipped the Tanto.
Kusarigama
Arguably the most versatile weapon in Naoe’s kit, the Kusarigama combines scythe and chain attacks, formidable both at close and ranged engagements. It’s highly effective in crowd control situations, albeit with some collateral damage risk from its broad swings.
Tools
Instead of traditional ranged implements, Naoe uses throwable tools to engage or distract enemies at a distance. Her kunai can quickly take down unarmored opponents, while shuriken serve to disrupt foes, allowing her to maintain the upper hand.
Upgrading Your Arsenal
Enhancing your weapons is made intuitive in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Each weapon type has its mastery tab where points can be invested to boost damage and unlock new skills. Weapon levels are matched to your player level through upgrades at your Hideout’s Forge, enhancing their base stats.
Weapons come in five rarity tiers: Common, Uncommon, Rare, Epic, and Legendary, with uncommon items featuring unique perks. Higher-tier weapons offer dual perk slots for customization, reinforcing your playstyle with options like increased critical hits.
Ultimately, there are no wrong weapon choices in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Mastery comes with adaptability, and as long as you outlast your targets, your strategy is sound.
Mark your calendars for March 20, 2025, to embark on this journey. Pre-order now on the Microsoft Store to secure the Claws of Awaji expansion and the bonus Thrown to the Dogs quest. Opt for the Digital Deluxe Edition, and you’ll receive additional exclusive content, including the Sekiryu Dual Pack, providing more gear and weapon sets, and customization for your Hideout. Prepare to enter the captivating world of Feudal Japan in this epic adventure narrative.
