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

Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces two captivating protagonists, the Shinobi Naoe and the Samurai Yasuke, each offering unique gameplay experiences. However, the process of switching between these characters has been a topic of curiosity among fans eager to dive into the game. Let's explore 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 unfolds in a vast open world, the game's prologue is more linear. Spanning about 90 minutes, this introduction alternates between Naoe and Yasuke at set moments. However, once the prologue concludes, players remain locked as Naoe for several hours.

For those eager to step into Yasuke's shoes and live out their Samurai fantasies, the wait might feel long. Naoe remains the sole playable character until the end of the first act, specifically until the Temple of the Horseman Quest. Here, Yasuke briefly becomes the playable character for the Fire and Lightning Quest. After completing this quest and Act I, players gain the freedom to switch between Naoe and Yasuke more freely.

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 approximately 10 hours. This duration included exploring a significant amount of side content. However, players focusing solely on the main storyline might reach this pivotal 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 Naoe and Yasuke is unlocked, switching between them is straightforward. One method is through fast travel. When selecting a fast travel location on the map, players can choose a prompt to fast travel as the other protagonist. This option is available at various points across the map, including Synchronization points and Kakurega Hideouts.

Additionally, certain story quests present players with the choice of which protagonist to control, adding another layer of decision-making to the gameplay.

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

After Act I, Assassin’s Creed Shadows offers significant freedom to switch between Naoe and Yasuke in the open world. However, there are specific story moments and major quests where the protagonist is predetermined, locking players into one character for those scenes.

It's also important to note that Naoe and Yasuke have unique quests and activities that delve into their individual backstories before they met. These character-specific quests and side activities are marked with distinct symbols—a Samurai helmet for Yasuke and a Shinobi’s hood for Naoe.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set to launch on March 20th, available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.