The Ultimate Guide to Weapons in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is all set to land on Xbox Series X|S on March 20, 2025, introducing gamers to two fascinating characters with distinct fighting styles: Naoe, a nimble ninja, and Yasuke, a formidable samurai. These characters aren’t just different in looks; their weaponry varies greatly too. Each can wield two unique weapon types, bringing their own strategic flair to battles. Let’s dive into the array of weapons at your disposal in Assassin’s Creed Shadows and discover how to create the perfect setup for any encounter.

Yasuke’s Arsenal

Kicking things off with Yasuke, the samurai offers multiple weapons of might:

1. Long Katana:

   • A samurai is incomplete without his katana. Yasuke’s long katana excels in speed, slicing swiftly and decisively through opponents. Its range isn’t the longest, but when you need to deal with small groups quickly or just feel like an iconic samurai dispatching daring ronins, this weapon is your go-to.

2. Naginata:

   • If controlling large enemy crowds is your aim, Yasuke’s naginata does the trick. Though slower than the katana, it boasts the longest reach among Yasuke’s weapons, allowing you to maintain distance from adversaries and outmaneuver foes wielding similar polearms.

3. Kanabo:

   • Think of pure devastation when you think of the Kanabo. Despite its slowness, this massive club hits with monumental force. Good luck to any enemy trying to withstand its blows – it swiftly shatters armor and health bars alike. Just be wary of larger groups, as its hefty swings can be interrupted.

4. Bow:

   • Yasuke’s bow stands out for stealth. Perfect for silently eliminating guards from afar, it also has abilities that slow time or let you unleash rapid arrow volleys, making it effective in direct conflicts too.
5. Teppo:
   • The teppo rifle brings loud chaos to Yasuke’s arsenal. Powerful enough to draw all eyes your way, it requires reloading after each shot, prompting you to switch between melee and firearms. A bit versatile too, as you can use it with gunpowder for broader impacts or club foes before shooting.

Naoe’s Tools of the Trade

Switching gears to Naoe, her weapon set focuses on agility and finesse:

1. Katana:

   • In her hands, the katana transforms into a weapon of aerial agility. Expect kicks and acrobatics woven into slashes, making her attacks versatile and engaging. This medium-speed weapon suits one-on-one or small skirmishes perfectly.

2. Tanto/Hidden Blade:

   • Embodying deadly speed, Naoe pairs the tanto with her hidden blade for blisteringly fast assaults. It’s designed for close-quarters, unleashing rapid strikes on single foes. Plus, unlock assassin mastery, and you can dual-assassinate with the tanto equipped.

3. Kusarigama:

   • Arguably her most adaptable tool, the kusarigama combines a scythe and a metal ball on a chain. Light, quick strikes and heavy, sweeping attacks cover vast distances, effective for handling mobs. Be mindful of collateral damage though, as this weapon can decimate environments as easily as enemies.
4. Tools:
   • While Yasuke opts for firearms, Naoe uses throwable tools. Kunai take down unarmored foes in one precise hit. Her shurikens, although weaker, stun targets, giving her the edge to finish the job.

Enhancing Your Weaponry

In Assassin’s Creed Shadows, weapons evolve with you. Each type has its own mastery tab for enhancing damage and unlocking abilities. Moreover, forge upgrades allow weapons to scale with your level, ensuring no favorite gets left behind. The rarity tiers – Common to Legendary – bring added perks, with higher rarities providing more customization. Engrave perks to amplify your battle strategies, whether through increased critical hits or adrenaline boosts for ability usage.

Whether you prefer Yasuke’s strength or Naoe’s agility, mastering all weapons can lead to success. The game encourages discovering your style, ensuring as long as you come out with more health than the foe, you’re golden.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows beckons come March 20, 2025, on Xbox Series X|S. Pre-order from the Microsoft Store and snag the Claws of Awaji expansion and Thrown to the Dogs quest for free. The Digital Deluxe Edition further rewards with additional gear, each ensuring you step into feudal Japan with an edge.