Learn exactly how to switch characters in Assassin’s Creed Shadows between Naoe and Yasuke. Our complete guide in 2025 covers unlocking both assassins and mastering character switching for optimal gameplay.
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The Dual-Protagonist System: Naoe and Yasuke
Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces one of the most exciting gameplay innovations in the franchise’s history: a true dual-protagonist system featuring the nimble shinobi Naoe and the powerful samurai Yasuke. Learning how to switch characters in Assassin’s Creed Shadows is essential for mastering the game’s diverse combat and stealth mechanics.
Unlike previous Assassin’s Creed titles that featured multiple playable characters, Shadows implements a dynamic switching system that allows players to alternate between two distinct playstyles on the fly. This guide will show you exactly how to switch characters in Assassin’s Creed Shadows using multiple methods, when each character becomes available, and how to leverage their unique abilities for maximum advantage.
Whether you’re infiltrating a heavily guarded castle or engaging in open combat, knowing when and how to switch between these two assassins can mean the difference between success and failure in feudal Japan.
When Can You Switch Characters in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
Many players wonder: Assassin’s Creed Shadows can you switch characters freely during gameplay? The answer is yes, but not immediately. The game introduces its dual protagonists through a carefully structured narrative progression.
Here’s the timeline for character availability:
| Character | Initial Availability | Full Unlock Timing | Unlock Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naoe | Game Start | Immediate | None – Available from beginning |
| Yasuke | Brief Tutorial Only | After ~8-12 hours | Complete “Temple of the Horseman,” “Lightning and Thunder,” and “Mibuno Showdown” quests |
When you first begin Assassin’s Creed Shadows, you’ll play as Naoe in Assassin’s Creed Shadows for the majority of the early game. While you do get a brief taste of Yasuke’s gameplay during an introductory tutorial sequence, he isn’t fully unlocked as a playable character until you progress through specific story missions.
This design choice serves multiple purposes:
- It allows you to master the core stealth mechanics through Naoe’s gameplay
- It builds anticipation for Yasuke’s full integration
- It aligns with the narrative arc of both characters
To unlock Yasuke in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, you’ll need to complete the “Temple of the Horseman” main quest, followed by two subsequent missions: “Lightning and Thunder” and “Mibuno Showdown.” This typically occurs after 8-12 hours of gameplay, depending on how much side content you explore.
How to Switch Characters in Assassin’s Creed Shadows: All Methods
Once you’ve unlocked both characters, you can Assassin’s Creed Shadows switch between characters using several different methods. Each approach has its advantages depending on your current situation in the game.
Method 1: Using the Inventory Menu
The most universally accessible way to switch characters:
- Press and hold Square (PlayStation) or X (Xbox) to open the character menu
- Navigate to the character option at the bottom of the screen
- Select your desired character
- Confirm your selection
This method is available almost anywhere in the game world, with some restrictions that we’ll cover later.
Method 2: Fast Travel Points
You can also switch characters when using the fast travel system:
- Open your map
- Select any unlocked Viewpoint or Kakurega (hideout)
- Choose which character you want to travel as
- Confirm your selection
This method is particularly useful when you want to approach a new area with a specific character.
Method 3: Mission Selection
For certain missions, the game will allow you to choose your character before beginning:
- Approach a mission start point
- When prompted, select either Naoe or Yasuke
- Begin the mission as your chosen character
Some missions are character-specific and won’t offer this choice.
Method 4: Scripted Switching
During specific story moments, the game will automatically prompt you to switch characters as part of the narrative. These switches are scripted and essential to story progression.
Restrictions on Character Switching
Understanding how to switch characters in Assassin’s Creed Shadows also means knowing when you can’t switch. The character switching mechanics in Assassin’s Creed Shadows have certain limitations to maintain gameplay balance and narrative cohesion.
You cannot switch characters:
- During active combat
- While swimming
- In mid-air during parkour movements
- In certain restricted or heavily guarded areas
- During character-specific missions
- In the middle of certain animations or actions
These restrictions add a strategic element to character management, encouraging you to plan your approach to missions and exploration.
Character Differences: Choosing Between Naoe and Yasuke
The character switching mechanics in Assassin’s Creed have evolved significantly with the Shadows installment. Each protagonist offers distinct gameplay advantages that suit different situations and playstyles.
| Aspect | Naoe | Yasuke |
|---|---|---|
| Combat Style | Stealth-focused assassin | Power-based samurai |
| Weapons | Smaller, faster weapons | Heavy, damage-dealing weapons |
| Movement | Faster, more agile | Slower but more powerful |
| Special Abilities | Smoke bombs, kunai, stealth kills | Heavy attacks, crowd control, durability |
| Mission Suitability | Infiltration, stealth, reconnaissance | Direct combat, boss fights, crowd encounters |
When you play as Naoe in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, you’ll excel at:
- Silent assassinations
- Rooftop navigation
- Quick escapes
- Eavesdropping missions
- Precision targeting
When playing as Yasuke, you’ll dominate in:
- Head-on confrontations
- Boss battles
- Breaking defenses
- Crowd combat
- Withstanding damage
Strategic Character Switching Tips
Understanding the character switching mechanics in Assassin’s Creed Shadows is crucial for mission success. Here are some strategic tips for when to use each character:
Best Scenarios for Naoe
- Infiltration Missions: Naoe’s stealth abilities make her ideal for sneaking into heavily guarded areas without detection.
- Reconnaissance: When you need to gather information without being spotted, Naoe’s agility and smaller profile are advantageous.
- Precision Eliminations: For missions requiring specific target eliminations without alerting others, Naoe’s assassination skills are unmatched.
- Urban Navigation: In dense city environments with plenty of climbing opportunities, Naoe’s parkour abilities shine.
Best Scenarios for Yasuke
- Combat-Heavy Encounters: When stealth fails or isn’t an option, switch to Yasuke for superior combat capabilities.
- Boss Battles: Yasuke’s heavy attacks and durability make him the better choice for major confrontations.
- Crowd Control: When surrounded by multiple enemies, Yasuke’s wide-reaching attacks can manage groups effectively.
- Defensive Stands: Missions requiring you to hold a position against waves of enemies are perfect for Yasuke.
Advanced Switching Strategies
To maximize the effectiveness of both characters:
- Scout areas with Naoe before engaging
- Switch to Yasuke when detected or for planned combat
- Use Naoe for follow-up assassinations after Yasuke creates chaos
- Consider mission objectives when choosing your starting character
- Use fast travel points strategically to position both characters
Troubleshooting Common Character Switching Issues
Even when you know how to switch characters in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, you might encounter some technical issues. Here are solutions to common problems:
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Switch option unavailable | In restricted area or activity | Move to an unrestricted area or complete current action |
| Switching lag | Performance issues | Adjust graphics settings or restart the game |
| Character locked | Story progression requirement | Complete necessary missions to unlock full switching |
| Controls unresponsive | Controller issues or game bug | Check controller settings or reload last checkpoint |
| Loading delays | System performance | Consider game reinstallation or console restart |
If you experience persistent issues with character switching, ensure your game is updated to the latest version, as patches frequently address such gameplay mechanics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you switch characters in Assassin’s Creed Shadows from the beginning?
No, you cannot freely switch characters from the start. You’ll primarily play as Naoe for the first 8-12 hours, with Yasuke becoming fully playable after completing the “Temple of the Horseman,” “Lightning and Thunder,” and “Mibuno Showdown” quests.
How do I know which character is better for a specific mission?
Mission icons sometimes indicate a recommended character. Generally, stealth-focused objectives favor Naoe, while combat-heavy scenarios benefit from Yasuke’s strengths. Some missions are character-specific and won’t offer a choice.
Does switching characters reset enemy awareness?
Partially. Switching characters can reduce enemy alert status in some situations, but won’t completely reset it if enemies are actively pursuing you. This can be used tactically to manage detection levels.
Are there character-exclusive abilities or weapons?
Yes, each character has unique weapons and abilities. Naoe specializes in stealth tools like smoke bombs and kunai, while Yasuke excels with heavy weapons and has superior combat durability.
Can I upgrade both characters equally?
Yes, skill points and upgrades can be distributed between both characters. However, some upgrades are character-specific, so you’ll need to make strategic choices about which abilities to prioritize.
Do both characters share inventory items?
Most consumable items and resources are shared between characters, but weapons and certain specialized tools remain character-specific.
Can I switch characters during boss fights?
Generally no. Most boss encounters lock you into using whichever character initiated the fight. Choose wisely before engaging major enemies.
Conclusion: Mastering the Dual-Protagonist System
Learning how to switch characters in Assassin’s Creed Shadows opens up a world of strategic possibilities that enrich the gameplay experience. By understanding when to use Naoe’s stealth prowess and when to leverage Yasuke’s combat strength, you’ll be able to tackle any challenge feudal Japan throws at you.
The ability to assassin’s creed shadows switch between characters effectively will give you tactical advantages throughout your journey. As you progress through the game, experiment with different approaches to missions using both characters to discover your preferred playstyle.
Remember that while the character switching system offers tremendous flexibility, it also requires thoughtful planning. Some of the game’s most rewarding moments come from seamlessly transitioning between stealth and combat by switching between these two distinct protagonists at just the right moment.
Have you discovered any creative ways to use the character switching system in Assassin’s Creed Shadows? Share your strategies in the comments below!
This guide was last updated on March, 2025, and reflects the current version of Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Game mechanics may change with future updates.
