*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* introduces a groundbreaking shift in the franchise with its dual protagonists, Yasuke the Samurai and Naoe the Shinobi, each bringing unique strengths and weaknesses to the gameplay. Here's a detailed look at which character you should choose based on your playstyle and the game's demands.
Yasuke the Samurai: Pros and Cons
Yasuke, a formidable Samurai, stands out as one of the most intriguing protagonists in *Assassin’s Creed* history. His gameplay is inspired by From Software's melee combat, reminiscent of controlling a boss in *Dark Souls*. Yasuke's physical prowess and Samurai skills make him a powerhouse on the battlefield. He excels in crowd control and delivers devastating melee attacks, capable of handling both base enemies and higher-tier foes like the Daimyo in castles. Additionally, his ability to use a Bow and Arrow makes him versatile at range.
However, Yasuke's strengths in open combat come with trade-offs. His assassinations are slower and more exposed compared to traditional Assassins, making stealth challenging. His parkour abilities are limited, with slower climbing and shimmying, which can hinder exploration. Many synchronization points are difficult or impossible for him to reach, adding frustration when trying to uncover new areas.
Naoe the Shinobi: Pros and Cons
Naoe, the Iga Shinobi, embodies the classic *Assassin’s Creed* experience with her focus on stealth and parkour. Her agility and ninja-like skills make her a master of stealth, especially when players invest in Mastery points. Naoe's ability to navigate the environment with ease makes her ideal for exploration and executing precise assassinations.
On the downside, Naoe struggles in direct combat. With lower health and less powerful melee abilities, she can be overwhelmed by even a few enemies. When detected, the best strategy is often to retreat and re-enter stealth mode, allowing her to perform her signature hidden blade takedowns and aerial assassinations.
When Should You Play as Each Protagonist in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
Choosing between Yasuke and Naoe often depends on personal preference and the specific demands of the game. In canon mode, the story may dictate which character is available for certain quests. However, when you have the freedom to switch, each protagonist excels in different scenarios.
For exploration, Naoe is the better choice. Her superior mobility and speed make her ideal for clearing the fog of war, synchronizing, and discovering new areas in feudal Japan. She's particularly effective for assassination missions once you've reached Knowledge Level 2 and invested in Assassin and Shinobi skills.
Once you've explored a region and identified its toughest targets, switch to Yasuke for combat. He's perfect for storming castles and defeating high-value enemies like Daimyo Samurai lords, either through brutal assassinations or open sword fights.
In missions requiring extensive combat, Yasuke is your go-to character. Conversely, Naoe shines in traversal, exploration, and stealth-based activities. Beyond these specific scenarios, both characters are capable, and your choice may ultimately depend on which personality you connect with more and whether you prefer the traditional *Assassin’s Creed* experience or the newer RPG elements.
*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* will be available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S starting March 20th.
