"Assassin's Creed Shadows Introduces Transmogging: Change Stats, Keep Weapon Aesthetics"

Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces an exciting feature known as transmogging, allowing players to maintain the stats of their weapons while customizing their appearance to match their preferred aesthetic. Dive into the details of how this game enhances player progression and offers deep customization options.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows Provides A Deep Dive on Progression

Transmogging and Weapon Customization

Assassin’s Creed Shadows (AC Shadows) offers players a comprehensive look at the game's progression system, which includes the ability to transmog weapons to align with their desired look and stats. On March 1, 2025, AC Shadows detailed on its official website how player progression and customization function within the game. AC Shadows Associate Game Director Julien shared the team’s vision and the depth of customizability in the game.

Players can utilize the transmog feature to alter the stats of their weapons. If a player appreciates a weapon's stats but not its appearance, they can change its look while retaining the original stats. This feature becomes available after constructing a Forge in the Hideout, which can then be accessed through the inventory menu.

Julien noted, "The Forge is crucial for managing your inventory. Here, you can upgrade or dismantle weapons and gear, and we'll provide more details in an upcoming article about the Hideout." Players have the flexibility to mix and match weapon parts, such as using the blade from one weapon, the guard from another, and the handle from a newly acquired weapon, creating a truly personalized look.

New Progression Loop

Previously, at IGN Fan Fest 2025, AC Shadows’ Creative Director Charles Benoit discussed the game’s combat mechanics and progression. The recent post from Ubisoft delves deeper into how player progression is structured and the mechanics involved.

Julien explained how the team approached the challenge of having two protagonists in the game, stating, "Having two separate characters with unique archetypes in our feudal Japan world pushed us to rethink how we wanted to approach player progression." She added, "Our goal was to stay as close as possible to the philosophy of mastery and martial art."

Mastery, Abilities, and Knowledge Ranks

AC Shadows features unique mastery trees for its two protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, tailored to their main archetypes—Naoe as a shinobi and assassin, and Yasuke as a samurai.

Julien elaborated, "With the unique Mastery trees, we aim to give players the freedom to dedicate themselves to a specific weapon, playstyle, or archetype, and deepen their mastery of it." She continued, "The points you invest in a Mastery tree unlock additional bonuses for that weapon or archetype, reinforcing your progress."

Abilities are integrated within the Mastery trees, and unlocking them provides players with new gameplay options and increased damage capabilities against enemies. However, access to certain abilities and points in the Mastery tree is contingent upon reaching specific levels in the Knowledge Rank. This rank can be elevated through non-violent activities such as discovering Lost Pages in temples, praying at Shrines, engaging in Kuji-kiri Meditation for Naoe, or learning new Kata for Yasuke.

Customizing Your Playstyle

AC Shadows enables players to build their ultimate playstyle through various customization features. Perks allow players to "modify, enhance, or specialize a piece of equipment," providing stat improvements, influencing afflictions, or creating different conditions that encourage diverse playstyles.

Despite their initial archetypes, Naoe and Yasuke can be customized to play differently. The game provides potential builds for each character, demonstrating the extent of customization available. Naoe can adopt an exotic combat style, excelling in ground attacks and quick engagement and disengagement with enemies. Conversely, Yasuke can be tailored for a stealthy and ranged approach, with perks and abilities enhancing his stealth capabilities and archery skills.

With the recent insights into AC Shadows, fans are eagerly anticipating the game's release, which has been long-awaited.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set to launch on March 20, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Stay updated with the latest news on Assassin’s Creed Shadows by checking out our article below!