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One standout feature of Assassin’s Creed Shadows is its ability to let players control two distinct characters, each with their own unique playstyle. Although the franchise has featured multiple protagonists before, this level of character switching is new.
Both Naoe and Yasuke play vital roles in the storyline, but you won’t gain access to both characters until you’ve progressed significantly in the game. Here’s how you can unlock Yasuke permanently.
Unlocking Yasuke
At the beginning of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, you’ll initially control Yasuke during an introductory mission. This soon changes as you transition to Naoe, who remains the sole playable character for about the next 10 hours as you progress through her prologue.
To unlock Yasuke, you need to make significant progress in the main story. This involves eliminating the first two targets: The Wounded and The Golden Teppo. After completing these objectives, speak with Tomiko to initiate a quest where Naoe is tasked with taking down Oda Nobunaga. This quest is straightforward and leads directly to the main mission called Temple of the Horseman.
In this quest, Naoe must stealthily navigate a castle to confront Nobunaga in a duel, drawing Yasuke into the conflict and leading to an extended narrative scene. Following this sequence, you’ll finally get to control Yasuke again during a mission titled Lightning and Thunder, where he assaults a castle amid a rainstorm.
Yasuke’s return is an unforgettable moment in the game, so get ready.
After a flashback and additional cutscenes, Naoe and Yasuke will join forces as expected, making Yasuke a permanent playable character. You can now choose to undertake missions as either character and switch between them effortlessly.
Switching Between Yasuke and Naoe
To switch between Naoe and Yasuke, simply open the Inventory menu and press X on Xbox or Square on PS5. You can also instantly switch characters when fast-traveling to a location on the map, allowing you to select your preferred character for that point.
There’s a significant advantage to switching characters; if one goes wanted, you can switch to the other to avoid detection. However, keep in mind that you cannot swap in enemy-infested areas.
As you progress through the game, you’ll have the freedom to choose which character to play for each mission. Naoe excels in stealth and agility, making her easier to navigate through the environment, while Yasuke is a superior combatant, although less mobile. It’s advisable to frequently switch between the two characters to optimize your gameplay experience, except during specific story-driven moments.
