Assassin’s Creed Shadows is gearing up for a thrilling release on March 20, 2025, exclusively for Xbox Series X|S consoles. This latest installment invites players into the dynamic roles of two very different protagonists: Naoe, the swift and elusive ninja, and Yasuke, the formidable samurai. Their fighting styles are worlds apart, each wielding an array of distinctive weapons that reflect their unique approaches to combat. Players can arm each character with two weapons simultaneously, allowing for versatile battle strategies. Let’s dive into the diverse arsenal available in the game to help you craft the perfect gear for any encounter.
Weapons for Yasuke
Long Katana
Yasuke’s long katana is a must-have for any samurai enthusiast. This weapon boasts incredible speed, enabling swift and precise strikes perfect for slicing through multiple enemies quickly. Although it lacks the longest range, its rapid attacks make it ideal for taking on small groups or dueling a daring ronin who’s made the mistake of crossing your path.
Naginata
The Naginata excels in crowd control. Its polearm design allows for sweeping attacks, perfect for managing larger enemy groups. While it doesn’t strike as quickly as the katana, its superior reach lets Yasuke keep adversaries at arm’s length, proving especially beneficial against opponents wielding naginatas themselves.
Kanabo
For those favoring brute strength, the Kanabo is an intimidating option. Although it’s slower than other weapons, its forceful blows are unmatched, capable of breaking through enemy defenses and armor with ease. But remember, hefting this behemoth leaves Yasuke vulnerable to attacks from multiple directions.
Bow
Yasuke’s bow offers a stealthy solution for eliminating threats from afar. It’s a silent but deadly option, perfect for those who prefer a covert approach. With abilities that slow time or enable multiple rapid shots, the bow isn’t just a tool for stealth but can hold its own in more direct confrontations.
Teppo
When stealth is cast aside, Yasuke’s teppo rifle becomes a powerhouse choice. Though each shot demands a reload, its potent impact makes it worthwhile, albeit loud. Some abilities even transform the teppo into a multi-functional weapon, capable of creating explosive area damage or doubling as a bludgeon.
Weapons for Naoe
Katana
Naoe’s use of the katana showcases her agility and finesse. Unlike Yasuke’s version, her combos are as much about acrobatics as they are about swordplay, making the katana a versatile option for taking down individual enemies or small groups with a flourish of kicks and flips.
Tanto/Hidden Blade
Speed is the essence of the tanto, pairing perfectly with Naoe’s Hidden Blade for swift, deadly attacks. While close-quarters combat is a necessity, her strikes are decisive against single targets, and with the right upgrade, can even allow dual assassinations when wielded as a primary weapon.
Kusarigama
Perhaps Naoe’s most flexible weapon, the Kusarigama blends the lethality of a scythe with the reach of a chain-linked metal sphere. Its versatility shines in both quick, sharp strikes and wide, heavy swings capable of devastating groups. Just be cautious of collateral damage, as this weapon tends to strike everything within reach.
Tools
Naoe relies on thrown tools instead of conventional ranged weapons. Her kunai can effectively dispatch unarmored foes with headshots, while her shuriken can disrupt enemies mid-battle, providing her the opening needed to strike decisively.
Enhancing Your Arsenal
In Assassin’s Creed Shadows, upgrading your gear is essential. Mastery tabs allow you to channel points into boosting weapon damage and unlocking new skills. With five rarity tiers, weapons can boast perks ranging from increased critical hit chances to enhanced adrenaline gains when damaging enemies. Elevating your gear to your level through the Forge boosts stats to keep you battle-ready.
There’s no definitive “best” loadout in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. A skilled assassin learns to adapt each weapon to their needs. Ultimately, the balance comes down to having more health than your foes—a simple but effective strategy.
With the game’s release just around the corner on March 20, 2025, you still have the chance to pre-order it through the Microsoft Store for Xbox. Early adopters receive the Claws of Awaji expansion and Thrown to the Dogs bonus quest at no cost. Alternatively, consider the Digital Deluxe Edition for even more content, including additional gear, weapon sets, and customization options, alongside the Sekiryu Dual Pack and Hideout Pack, each offering unique extras to enhance your journey through Feudal Japan.
Prepare to embark on a captivating adventure, switching seamlessly between the roles of Naoe and Yasuke, each with their distinct style and narrative. With the world of Feudal Japan as your backdrop, this iteration of Assassin’s Creed promises an immersive experience full of action, stealth, and strategic depth.
