*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* introduces a groundbreaking dual protagonist system, featuring Yasuke the Samurai and Naoe the Shinobi, each bringing unique gameplay dynamics to the franchise. Here’s a detailed look at which protagonist you should choose based on your gameplay preferences and objectives.
Yasuke the Samurai: Pros and Cons
Yasuke, as depicted in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*, Image via Ubisoft
Yasuke stands out as one of the most intriguing protagonists in the *Assassin’s Creed* series, thanks to his unique gameplay mechanics. As a Samurai with a formidable build, Yasuke brings a raw power to the game that is unmatched. His combat style, inspired by From Software’s *Dark Souls*, lets you feel like you're controlling a boss character, making him a juggernaut on the battlefield.
Yasuke’s strengths shine in open combat scenarios. He excels at crowd control and delivers devastating melee attacks, making short work of both basic enemies and higher-tier foes like the Daimyo who guard castles. Additionally, his ability to use a Bow and Arrow adds a layer of versatility, allowing him to engage enemies at a distance.
However, Yasuke's prowess in direct combat comes at the cost of stealth and agility. His assassinations are slower and riskier, leaving him vulnerable to detection. His parkour abilities are also limited, with slower climbing and less efficient movement compared to previous protagonists. This can be particularly frustrating when trying to reach synchronization points, which may be out of his reach or difficult to access.
Naoe the Shinobi: Pros and Cons
Naoe and Yaya in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*, Image via Ubisoft
Naoe, on the other hand, embodies the classic *Assassin’s Creed* experience with her stealth and parkour skills. As an Iga Shinobi, she is highly agile and adept at navigating the game world with ease. Her mastery of ninja and assassin techniques makes her a formidable force in stealth-based gameplay, especially when players invest in her Mastery points.
Naoe’s stealth capabilities are unparalleled, allowing her to remain undetected and execute precise assassinations. However, her effectiveness diminishes in direct combat situations. With lower health and less powerful melee attacks, Naoe can struggle when facing multiple enemies. The best strategy is often to retreat and re-enter stealth mode to continue her deadly work.
When Should You Play as Each Protagonist in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
Naoe and Yasuke team up in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*, Image via Ubisoft
Choosing between Yasuke and Naoe in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* often depends on the player's personal preference and the specific demands of the game’s quests. In canon mode, the story may dictate which character you play as for certain missions. However, when given the choice, each protagonist excels in different scenarios.
For exploration and uncovering the map, Naoe is the ideal choice. Her superior mobility and speed make her perfect for clearing the fog of war, reaching synchronization points, and exploring the vast landscapes of feudal Japan. She is also the go-to character for stealth-based contracts and quests that require assassinating targets, especially after reaching knowledge Level 2 and investing in Assassin and Shinobi skills.
Once you've explored a region and identified high-value targets, Yasuke becomes the preferred choice for combat. He is particularly effective in storming castles and defeating powerful enemies like the Daimyo Samurai lords. His brute strength and combat prowess make him the better option for missions involving open combat and direct confrontations.
Ultimately, the choice between Yasuke and Naoe will depend on the mission at hand. Yasuke is ideal for combat-heavy missions, while Naoe excels in exploration and stealth. Beyond these specific roles, the decision may come down to which character’s personality and playstyle resonate more with you, whether you prefer the classic *Assassin’s Creed* stealth experience or the more aggressive combat of the newer RPG elements.
*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* will be available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S starting March 20th.
