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

Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces two compelling protagonists: the Shinobi Naoe and the Samurai Yasuke. As the game approaches its launch, many players are curious about when and how they can switch between these characters. Here's a detailed guide on when 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, the game's prologue is quite linear. Over the course of about 90 minutes, players will alternate between Naoe and Yasuke during specific moments. However, once the prologue is finished, you'll be locked into playing as Naoe for several hours.

Unfortunately, for those eager to step into Yasuke's shoes and fulfill their Samurai fantasies right away, you'll have to wait until nearly the end of the game's first act. The early stages of the game are centered around Naoe, with Yasuke making his first appearance in the Temple of the Horseman Quest. He becomes playable during the Fire and Lightning Quest. After completing this quest and Act I, players gain the ability to switch freely between Naoe and Yasuke.

How Long Does it Take to Unlock Protagonist Switching in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?

In my playthrough, it took approximately 10 hours to reach the end of Act I and unlock the ability to switch protagonists freely. This duration includes time spent on side content. If you're focused on progressing through the main story to unlock both characters, you might reach this point in about 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 ability to play as both characters is unlocked, switching between them is straightforward. One method is through fast traveling. When selecting a fast travel location on the map, you'll see two button prompts: one to fast travel as your current character and another to switch to the other protagonist upon arrival. This can be done at various points across the map, including Synchronization points and Kakurega Hideouts.

Additionally, during certain story quests, you'll have the option to choose which protagonist to play as when the quest is presented to both characters.

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

In the open world of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, you have the freedom to choose between Naoe and Yasuke after Act I. However, there are specific story moments and major quests where the protagonist is fixed for certain scenes and quests.

It's also important to note that there are character-specific quests and activities. Naoe and Yasuke each have unique quests that delve into their backgrounds before they met, which are exclusive to one character. Additionally, some side activities must be completed by either Naoe or Yasuke, indicated by specific symbols: a Samurai helmet for Yasuke and a Shinobi’s hood for Naoe.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows will be available on March 20th for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.