Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces two dynamic protagonists, the Shinobi Naoe and the Samurai Yasuke, offering players a unique dual narrative experience. However, the process of switching between these characters has been a point of curiosity for many fans. Here’s a detailed guide on when and how you can switch between Naoe and Yasuke in Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ Intro is Heavy on Naoe
In the vast world of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, the initial stages are somewhat linear. During the game's prologue, which lasts approximately 90 minutes, players will experience alternating control between Naoe and Yasuke at predetermined points. After completing the prologue, the gameplay remains focused on Naoe for several hours.
For those eager to step into the shoes of Yasuke and live out their Samurai dreams, there's a wait ahead. Players are locked into playing as Naoe until the end of the first act, specifically until the Temple of the Horseman Quest. It's only after this quest, during the Fire and Lightning Quest, that Yasuke becomes playable. Once you complete Act I, you gain the freedom to switch between the two protagonists.
How Long Does it Take to Unlock Protagonist Switching in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
In my playthrough, it took about 10 hours to reach the end of Act I and unlock the ability to freely switch between Naoe and Yasuke. This included time spent on side content. If players focus solely on the main storyline, they might unlock this feature in around 6 to 8 hours.
How to Switch Between Yasuke and Naoe in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Once the ability to switch freely is unlocked, players can easily alternate between Naoe and Yasuke. One method is through fast travel. When selecting a fast travel location on the map, players are presented with two options: one to fast travel as the current character, and another to fast travel as the other protagonist. Choosing the latter will allow you to switch characters at the chosen fast travel point, which can be various locations like Synchronization points or Kakurega Hideouts.
Additionally, during certain story quests, players may be given the option to choose which protagonist to play as when a quest is presented to one character by the other.
When Can’t You Switch Protagonists in Assassin’s Creed Shadows? Answered
While Assassin’s Creed Shadows offers significant freedom to switch protagonists after Act I, there are specific story moments and major quests where the character is locked. Moreover, both Naoe and Yasuke have unique quests that delve into their individual backstories before they met, which are exclusive to each character. Side activities also feature character-specific content, marked by symbols such as a Samurai helmet for Yasuke and a Shinobi’s hood for Naoe.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set to launch on March 20th for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, promising a rich and engaging experience with its dual protagonist system.
