Switching Between Naoe and Yasuke in Assassin’s Creed Shadows: When and How?

Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces an exciting dual-protagonist system with the Shinobi Naoe and the Samurai Yasuke, offering players a unique gameplay experience. However, the transition between controlling these two characters has been a point of curiosity for many. 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

Naoe in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Image via Ubisoft

While Assassin’s Creed Shadows boasts a vast open-world environment, the initial stages of the game are more linear. The prologue, which spans approximately 90 minutes, alternates between Naoe and Yasuke at specific intervals. After completing the prologue, players remain locked as Naoe for several hours, as the early game focuses solely on her narrative.

For those eager to embody the Samurai Yasuke from the start, there's a wait ahead. Players are required to continue as Naoe until the end of the first act, around the time of the Temple of the Horseman Quest. Yasuke becomes playable during the Fire and Lightning Quest, but only temporarily. It's only after finishing this quest and Act I that players 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, reaching the end of Act I and unlocking the ability to freely switch between protagonists took around 10 hours. This included engaging in a considerable amount of side content. However, for players focused on the main storyline, it's possible to reach this point within 6 to 8 hours.

How to Switch Between Yasuke and Naoe in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Some cutscenes allow players to choose between playing as Yasuke and Naoe in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Once the freedom to switch characters is unlocked, doing so is straightforward. One method is through fast travel. When selecting a fast travel location on the map, players see two options: one to fast travel as the current character and another to switch to the other protagonist at the chosen location. This feature is available at various points across the map, including Synchronization points and Kakurega Hideouts.

Additionally, certain story quests allow players to choose their protagonist, adding a layer of personalization to the narrative experience.

When Can’t You Switch Protagonists in Assassin’s Creed Shadows? Answered

After Act I, Assassin’s Creed Shadows offers considerable flexibility in choosing between Naoe and Yasuke in the open world. However, there are specific story moments and major quests where the protagonist is predetermined.

It’s also important to note that there are character-specific quests and activities. These quests delve into the backstories of Naoe and Yasuke before their meeting and are exclusive to each character. Similarly, certain side activities are designated for either Naoe or Yasuke, marked by unique symbols: 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 an engaging and dynamic experience with its dual-protagonist system.