After years of anticipation, the much-awaited Assassin’s Creed Shadows has finally hit the gaming world, transporting players to the rich tapestry of feudal Japan. Ubisoft has crafted what many are calling the best entry in the series in years, artfully blending the distinct abilities of its two protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, to create a gameplay experience that feels fresh and engaging.
Having invested over 40 hours into the game, players are discovering nuances that can significantly enhance their experience. Here are ten essential tips that can help both newcomers and seasoned players navigate this sprawling adventure.
1. Check The Castle Type Before Invading
Before storming a castle, it’s crucial to check its type. The game recommends looking at the rewards associated with a castle to determine if it’s suited for Naoe or Yasuke. A Naoe castle typically offers more sneaking zones and small entryways, making it ideal for stealth. In contrast, a Yasuke castle features larger gates and obstacles that can be smashed through, catering to the brute strength of Yasuke. However, players often find Yasuke's combat prowess allows him to blitz through either type of castle with relative ease.
2. Stay On Your Horse, Avoid The Woods
Navigation in Assassin’s Creed Shadows is designed to favor mounted travel. Players are advised to stick to their horses and follow the path tracker, as the dense woods and steep hills can lead to unnecessary complications. By following the designated paths, players will reach their destinations more efficiently.
3. Don’t Forget The Hidden Skill Tree Passive
One aspect that can easily be overlooked is the hidden skill tree passive located at the bottom of each skill tree. This feature grants increased damage or health based on the points invested in the tree. Players should be sure to allocate points to maximize their effectiveness, such as achieving a 50% damage boost on specific weapons.
4. Double or Triple Unlock Skill Perks
Some upgrades feature multiple dots above them, indicating they can be upgraded several times. These upgrades can yield significant damage boosts, sometimes up to 100%. Players should keep an eye out for these opportunities to enhance their combat capabilities.
5. Always Do Your Contracts
Contracts refresh each season and are generally straightforward and conveniently located. Completing these contracts provides valuable upgrade materials for gear and can help players accumulate money. They are a vital resource not to be overlooked.
6. Don’t Bother Smuggling With Scouts
Using scouts to tag materials in enemy territories is often less rewarding than expected. The author recommends focusing on contracts instead, as they yield better rewards. Scouts should primarily be reserved for locating quest objectives or resetting the wanted level.
7. Get Unblockable Counter Gear/Perks
For players looking to enhance their combat skills, obtaining unblockable counter gear is essential. For Yasuke, the Protector’s Armor, found in Nijo Palace in Kyoto, is a valuable asset that provides this ability early in the game. Naoe can unlock a similar perk through her Katana, but this requires significant investment in the final row of knowledge point upgrades.
8. Ditch Old Gear Instead Of Always Upgrading
Players often make the mistake of trying to upgrade all their favorite gear, which can lead to a shortage of materials. It’s advisable to let go of older gear in favor of rarer or epic items that provide flat stat boosts. While it’s fine to keep a beloved legendary piece, focusing on a few key upgrades is more beneficial.
9. Get Legendary Blacksmith Mods
Upgrading the Blacksmith to its maximum level unlocks the ability to transfer legendary mods from one piece of gear to another. This allows players to customize their equipment further, such as equipping the unblockable parry perk from Yasuke’s armor onto other armor pieces.
10. Don’t Forget To Transmog
Customization is a significant aspect of Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Players can delete gear but still retain its appearance through the transmog option, allowing for a unique look without sacrificing performance. This feature adds an enjoyable layer of personalization to the game.
The game’s setting in feudal Japan not only provides a stunning backdrop but also allows players to explore diverse gameplay styles through its two protagonists. Naoe, the stealthy assassin, and Yasuke, the formidable samurai, offer contrasting experiences that cater to different play styles. Initially, players may find the game starts slowly, with Naoe taking center stage for the first ten hours, introducing the world and mechanics before Yasuke joins the fray.
Players should be prepared for a learning curve as they adapt to the strengths and weaknesses of both characters. Naoe excels in exploration and stealth, while Yasuke is more suited for direct combat. This dynamic encourages players to switch between characters based on the situation, creating a balanced and engaging experience.
As players traverse the vast landscapes of Japan, they should remain aware of their surroundings. While the game encourages exploration, venturing too far off the beaten path can lead to confusion and disorientation. Utilizing the guided path feature while riding will help maintain direction and prevent unnecessary backtracking.
Personalization options abound in this entry, allowing players to tailor their experiences. From changing the audio language to Japanese for a more immersive experience to adjusting gameplay mechanics to suit personal preferences, Assassin’s Creed Shadows ensures that every player can find their ideal playstyle.
In conclusion, Assassin’s Creed Shadows not only delivers a captivating story set in a beautifully crafted world but also offers players the tools they need to succeed. By understanding the mechanics and leveraging the unique strengths of Naoe and Yasuke, players can fully immerse themselves in this epic adventure.
