How to Unlock and Switch Characters in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
- Yash Choudhary
- Mar 29
- 2 min read
Assassin's Creed Shadows has two different characters: the stealthy assassin Naoe and the strong warrior Yasuke. While the game allows you to freely switch between them, this option is not available from the beginning. Players must first go through the main story until both characters are introduced and their skills are revealed. This guide explains how to unlock and Switch Characters in Assassin’s Creed Shadows once the option is available.
How to Unlock and Switch Characters in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
How To Unlock Yasuke
At the start of the game, players will briefly control Yasuke during a combat tutorial. However, the game swiftly changes its focus to Naoe, who stays the main character for the first eight to twelve hours of gameplay, depending on how much side content you discover.
Step-by-step Unlocking Process:
Complete the Prologue - The game begins with Yasuke, but you'll quickly switch to Naoe.
Progress Through the Main Story - You will continue to play as Naoe for the majority of Act 1.
Reach the 'Temple of the Horseman' objective - This objective occurs approximately 8 to 9 hours into the main story.
Complete 'Temple of the Horseman': Yasuke reappears during a major boss fight in this mission.
Finish two more missions.
Lightning & Thunder.
Mibuno Showdown.
Unlock Character Switching - Once in the 'A New League' chapter, players can freely switch between Yasuke and Naoe.
How To Switch Characters
Once Yasuke becomes a permanent playable character, players can switch between him and Naoe via two primary methods:
Method 1: Inventory menu.
Open the Inventory menu.
Look for the Character Swap option near the bottom of the screen.
Choose the other character to switch quickly.
Method 2: Fast Travel Menu.
Open the world map.
Choose a finished Viewpoint or an unlocked Kakurega (hideout).
A new option will emerge, allowing you to Fast Travel as Naoe or Yasuke, depending on the character you're presently playing as.
Automatic Character Switching
Certain story missions may need character swaps at key points.
Some side missions and recent times tasks are character-specific, meaning you must play as either Naoe or Yasuke.
Do You Have to Play as Yasuke?
Although Yasuke is an important character, you are rarely compelled to play as him. Most of the game allows you to freely switch between the two characters. The only exceptions are:
Backstory Missions - Character-specific objectives provide some details about Yasuke's history.
Automatic Swaps - In a few main plot missions, you may be required to control Yasuke for short periods of time.
Character Playstyle Differences
Each protagonist has a different playstyle, which affects how you approach missions:
Naoe (Stealth Assassin) - prefers agility, parkour, and silent eliminations.
Yasuke (Samurai Warrior) - specializes in sheer strength, armor, and direct battle.
Switch between characters based on mission needs and personal preferences for the best gameplay.
By following this guide, you'll be able to quickly unlock Yasuke and take use of the character-switching mechanics in Assassin's Creed Shadows.
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