Get ready to dive into the thrilling world of “Assassin’s Creed Shadows,” debuting on March 20, 2025, exclusively for the Xbox Series X|S. This game introduces players to two uniquely compelling characters, Naoe, the swift and stealthy ninja, and Yasuke, the mighty samurai. Playing as these characters, you’ll encounter distinct combat styles and a wide array of weapons, offering diverse strategies for every battle scenario. Here’s a detailed look at the arsenal available in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, helping you select the perfect tools to tackle each challenge.
### Yasuke’s Weapons
#### Long Katana
When it comes to embodying a samurai, nothing beats the elegance and efficiency of the Long Katana. This weapon allows Yasuke to deliver rapid, precise attacks, ideal for dispatching groups of enemies swiftly. Even though it lacks extended reach, its speed more than compensates, enabling players to feel like true warriors slashing through foes who dare to challenge them.
#### Naginata
For those moments when you need to maintain your distance from a horde of attackers, Yasuke’s Naginata is indispensable. Although slower than the katana, its long reach makes it the ultimate choice for crowd control, helping you fend off waves of adversaries.
#### Kanabo
The Kanabo is the definition of brute strength. Although it sacrifices speed, its raw power can shatter enemy defenses and armor, dealing devastating blows to unsuspecting foes. Caution is advised, as Yasuke becomes vulnerable to interruptions from multiple enemies during his heavy swings.
#### Bow
Stealth assassins will find Yasuke’s bow indispensable. It allows you to silently eliminate enemies from afar, and with certain abilities, you can slow down time or fire multiple arrows, making it useful even in open combat.
#### Teppo
When discretion isn’t a priority, Yasuke’s Teppo rifle is the go-to choice. Each shot is powerful but beware—the noise will alert nearby foes. Keeping a melee weapon handy is smart as you take time to reload. Additionally, the Teppo can function as a melee weapon, allowing Yasuke to strike enemies before finishing them with a gunshot.
### Naoe’s Weapons
#### Katana
Naoe transforms the Katana into an acrobatic extension of herself, incorporating flips and kicks into her attack sequences. While it’s a medium-speed weapon, Naoe’s agility keeps her nimble in combat, ideal for taking on multiple adversaries or dueling one-on-one.
#### Tanto/Hidden Blade
Speed and lethal efficiency are hallmarks of Naoe’s Tanto combined with her Hidden Blade. These allow for rapid successive strikes, making it perfect for close-quarters encounters. An upgrade in the Assassin mastery grants dual assassination capabilities when the tanto is equipped.
#### Kusarigama
Versatility is the name of the game with the Kusarigama. The weapon features a scythe paired with a metal ball on a chain, offering varied attacks from rapid swipes to broader swings for extensive reach. Whether facing single targets or groups, it proves effective, albeit with a risk of unintended collateral damage.
#### Tools
While Naoe doesn’t carry ranged weapons in a traditional sense, her toolkit is just as effective. With throwable weapons like kunai and shuriken, she can damage or distract enemies from a distance, creating openings for her strategic assaults.
### Upgrading Weapons
Upgrades in Assassin’s Creed Shadows are multifaceted. By investing mastery points in each weapon’s dedicated tab, you can augment damage and unlock new abilities. Weapons also have levels and can be upgraded to match your current level for improved stats if you’ve established a Forge in your Hideout. The rarity tiers, ranging from Common to Legendary, offer unique engraved perks for further customization, ensuring you always have the edge in combat.
There’s no single “right” weapon combination in Assassin’s Creed Shadows—mastery over a variety of weapons ensures you’re prepared for any situation. The game’s rich options for weapon customization and strategy diversification will keep you engrossed in the combat.
Before the official launch, there’s still a chance to pre-order your copy on the Microsoft Store for Xbox. Doing so will grant you the “Claws of Awaji” expansion and the “Thrown to the Dogs” bonus quest at no extra charge. You may also opt for the Digital Deluxe Edition, which, aside from including the base game, offers additional gear, weapons, and unique hideout customization options.
Step into Feudal Japan with Assassin’s Creed Shadows, crafting your unique adventure amid an intricate world of samurai and ninjas, and join two unlikely heroes on an unforgettable journey.
