Yasuke or Naoe: Who to Choose in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* introduces a groundbreaking shift in the franchise with its dual protagonists, Yasuke the Samurai and Naoe the Shinobi. Each character brings unique strengths and weaknesses to the table, offering players distinct gameplay experiences. Here's a detailed look at which protagonist you should choose based on your playstyle and the game's demands.

Yasuke the Samurai: Pros and Cons

Yasuke, a formidable Samurai, stands out as one of the most intriguing protagonists in *Assassin’s Creed* history. His gameplay is inspired by From Software's melee combat, reminiscent of controlling a boss in *Dark Souls*. Yasuke's physical prowess and Samurai skills make him a powerhouse on the battlefield. He excels in crowd control and delivers devastating melee attacks, capable of handling both base enemies and higher-tier foes like the Daimyo in castles. Additionally, Yasuke can use a Bow and Arrow, making him effective at range.

However, Yasuke's strengths in open combat come with trade-offs. His assassinations are slower and more exposed compared to Naoe's, making stealth missions challenging. His parkour abilities are limited, with slower climbing and shimmying, which can hinder exploration. Many synchronization points in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* are difficult or impossible for Yasuke to reach, which can be frustrating when exploring new provinces.

Naoe the Shinobi: Pros and Cons

Naoe, the Iga Shinobi, embodies the traditional *Assassin’s Creed* experience with her focus on stealth and parkour. Her agility and ninja-like skills make her a master of stealth, especially when players invest in Mastery points. Naoe is perfect for players who enjoy the classic Assassin gameplay, excelling in hidden blade takedowns and aerial assassinations.

On the downside, Naoe struggles in direct combat. With lower health and less powerful melee abilities, she can be overwhelmed by even a few enemies. When detected, the best strategy is often to retreat and re-enter stealth mode, which can be a limitation for players who prefer aggressive combat.

When Should You Play as Each Protagonist in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?

Choosing between Yasuke and Naoe often depends on personal preference and the specific demands of the game. The story may dictate which character is available for certain quests, particularly in canon mode. However, when you have the freedom to switch, each protagonist excels in different scenarios.

For exploration, Naoe is the better choice. Her superior mobility and speed make her ideal for clearing the fog of war, synchronizing, and discovering new areas in feudal Japan. She is also highly effective for assassination missions, especially after reaching Knowledge Level 2 and investing in Assassin and Shinobi skills.

Once you've explored a region and identified its most dangerous targets, Yasuke becomes the go-to character for combat. He is particularly effective in castles, where he can easily defeat Daimyo Samurai lords and secure high-value loot. For missions requiring open combat, Yasuke is the best fit.

Ultimately, the choice between Yasuke and Naoe will depend on whether you prefer the classic *Assassin’s Creed* stealth gameplay or the more aggressive combat style of the newer RPG titles. Both characters are capable beyond their specialized roles, so your decision may also hinge on which personality you connect with more.

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