Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set to launch on March 20, 2025, for Xbox Series X|S, bringing players into the world as two very different protagonists: Naoe, the nimble ninja, and Yasuke, the formidable samurai. These characters are armed with distinct sets of weapons that define their unique combat styles. They can each wield up to two different types of weapons, allowing you to tailor your combat strategy to any situation. To help you decide which arsenal suits your playstyle, here’s a comprehensive look at the available weapons in Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
Yasuke’s Weapons
Long Katana
When it comes to authenticity, a samurai’s katana is irreplaceable. Yasuke’s long katana is a testament to speed and precision, enabling him to deftly cut through adversaries with rapid, lethal swipes. Though its reach may be limited, its velocity makes it ideal for tackling small groups of enemies. It’s also perfect for those moments when you want to embrace the spirit of the samurai, dispatching a wayward ronin who dared cross your path.
Naginata
The Naginata is a polearm designed for broad, sweeping attacks, making it perfect for combat against larger hordes. While it’s not as fast as the katana, it compensates with the superior range, keeping enemies at bay. This weapon shines when you’re up against foes armed with naginatas of their own, giving you the spatial advantage.
Kanabo
The Kanabo might be slow, but its damage output is monumental. This hefty club can easily shatter an enemy’s defenses with even its lightest strikes, and can demolish an opponent’s armor—and health bar—in mere seconds. However, due to its weight, Yasuke can be left vulnerable to attacks when dealing with large groups.
Bow
A staple in Yasuke’s long-range arsenal, the bow is stealthy and deadly. Ideal for sneaking in and quietly eliminating guards from a distance, certain abilities enhance its capabilities by slowing down time or releasing multiple arrows swiftly. As such, the bow remains a solid choice even during full-fledged battles.
Teppo
When discretion is less of a priority, the teppo, a powerful rifle, is a great choice but be prepared for it to attract attention with its loud shots. After firing, it needs reloading, so having a melee weapon ready is a smart plan as the enemies close in. Unique abilities allow you to use the teppo for area-of-effect damage or even as a blunt weapon before shooting.
Naoe’s Weapons
Katana
Naoe’s approach with the katana is a sight to behold, full of acrobatic kicks and flips which add a dynamic flair to her medium-speed weapon. Perfect for both singular duels and small skirmishes, her katana is never a sluggish option in her agile hands.
Tanto/Hidden Blade
Short in range but deadly at close quarters, the tanto, paired with Naoe’s Hidden Blade, delivers a lightning-fast series of jabs. The full potential of the tanto becomes apparent when you unlock the passive upgrade allowing dual assassinations if it’s equipped.
Kusarigama
One of Naoe’s most adaptable tools, the Kusarigama combines a scythe and a weighted chain. Its light attacks provide quick scythe strikes, whereas heavy attacks involve sweeping motions with the metal ball end. Such versatility excelling in both crowd control and long reach makes it suitable for many situations.
Tools
While Naoe lacks traditional ranged weapons, her throwable tools offer plenty of tactical versatility. The kunai reliably eliminate unarmored threats in one shot, while shuriken serve to distract and stun, giving Naoe the opportunity to strike.
Upgrading Weapons
Enhancements in Assassin’s Creed Shadows come through various avenues. Each weapon class has a dedicated mastery tab for spending points to boost damage and unlock new capabilities. Their levels dictate wielding eligibility; however, lower-level items can be upgraded at the Hideout’s Forge to suit your current level, improving their base stats.
Weapons range from Common to Legendary, with perks introduced from Uncommon tiers, offering bonuses like increased critical chance when hitting multiple targets. Rare weapons and those of higher tiers add further engraving slots to personalize with strategic perks, like adrenaline boosts from inflicting certain status effects.
Ultimately, there’s no definitive loadout preference in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and a true Assassin should aspire to adeptly master them all. Maintaining the upper hand in health against foes is key.
Mark your calendars for the launch of Assassin’s Creed Shadows on March 20, 2025, for Xbox Series X|S. Pre-order today on the Microsoft Store for Xbox to access exclusive content like the Claws of Awaji expansion and the Thrown to the Dogs bonus quest. Don’t forget the Digital Deluxe Edition, which bundles extra items, showcasing why this release promises to be a monumental addition to your gaming library.
