Scheduled for launch on March 20, 2025, "Assassin’s Creed Shadows" is set to bring an exciting new chapter to life exclusively on Xbox Series X|S. In this installment, players will alternate between two diverse characters: the swift and stealthy ninja, Naoe, and the formidable samurai warrior, Yasuke. Each character brings a unique set of skills, enhanced by their distinctive choice of weapons, making for a dynamic gaming experience. Players can equip each character with up to two types of weapons, each offering specific advantages tailored for different combat scenarios. Let’s delve into the array of weapon options available to master in "Assassin’s Creed Shadows."
Yasuke’s Arsenal
Long Katana
The long katana is an essential tool for Yasuke, embodying the grace and speed one would expect from a seasoned samurai. While its range may be limited, its swift attack speed makes it formidable against small enemy groups or those daring duels against ambitious ronin.
Naginata
Great for sweeping up large clusters of adversaries, the naginata is a polearm that boasts impressive reach. Although it swings more slowly than the katana, it excels in keeping foes at bay and proves invaluable against similarly-equipped enemies.
Kanabo
The massive kanabo club is all about raw power. It may lack the speed of other weapons, but its earth-shattering blows easily shatter enemy defenses and armor, making short work of any encounter. However, Yasuke must be cautious in crowded skirmishes where multiple foes can interrupt his slow swings.
Bow
A master of stealth, Yasuke makes good use of the bow to stealthily eliminate enemies from afar. Enhanced abilities like slowing time or firing rapid arrows can transform this silent tool into a formidable asset during intense battles.
Teppo
For moments when a bit of noise is acceptable, the teppo rifle delivers powerful shots capable of drawing attention. Post-shot, it’s wise to switch to a melee weapon as reloading can leave you exposed to enemy attacks. Handy abilities to create area-of-effect explosions or use the rifle for physical takedowns can add an explosive flair to encounters.
Naoe’s Selections
Katana
In Naoe’s deft hands, the katana becomes a medium-speed weapon that’s perfect for slicing through single opponents or small groups. Her acrobatic combat style combines seamless weapon strikes with agile maneuvers—essentially turning each fight into a striking dance.
Tanto/Hidden Blade
The tanto dagger, paired with Naoe’s hidden blade, allows for lightning-fast attacks. Its short range demands close proximity to foes, ideal for quick, singular takedowns. With mastery upgrades, Naoe can perform dual assassinations using the tanto for even more efficiency.
Kusarigama
Arguably Naoe’s most adaptable weapon, the kusarigama marries a scythe with a chained spikey ball for versatile combat. Light strikes use the scythe, while heavy swings with the ball extend her reach, making it perfect for crowd control. Its collateral damage potential also shouldn’t be underestimated, as its chain allows quick takedowns from a distance.
Tools
While Naoe lacks traditional ranged weapons, her kunai and shuriken serve their purpose well. Whether dealing lethal blows to unarmored targets or stunning adversaries mid-battle, these tools add depth to her arsenal.
Weapon Upgrades
Players can enhance their weaponry through various upgrades. Each type of weapon hosts a mastery tab for allocating points to boost damage or unlock new abilities. Weapon levels restrict usage based on player’s level, but a Forge in your Hideout allows upgrades to meet levels for improved base stats. With five rarity tiers available (Common to Legendary), each level offers unique perks like enhanced critical hit chances or increased adrenaline gain—perfect when coupled with affliction-inducing weaponry.
In "Assassin’s Creed Shadows," there’s no wrong choice for your weapon loadout; a skilled Assassin can wield them all with devastating efficiency. As long as you’re surviving the battlefield with more health than your foes, you’re doing everything right.
Mark your calendars for March 20, 2025, when "Assassin’s Creed Shadows" launches for Xbox Series X|S. Pre-orders on the Microsoft Store for Xbox come with enticing bonuses, including the Claws of Awaji expansion and the "Thrown to the Dogs" bonus quest, free for early adopters. Also available is the Assassin’s Creed Shadows Digital Deluxe Edition, packed with additional equipment and customizable options for both Naoe and Yasuke, enriching your gameplay experience further. Ready to journey into Feudal Japan?