At the Summer Game Fest 2023, Ubisoft revealed a sneak peek of the gameplay in Assassin’s Creed Shadows featuring characters Naoe and Yasuke. Naoe embodies the stealthy assassin style akin to Ezio, while Yasuke is more of a powerful brawler. This diversity in playstyle offers players a unique experience, combining elements of previous Assassin’s Creed games with new combat dynamics.
Naoe excels in stealth, utilizing her agility to navigate rooftops, execute hidden blade assassinations, and strategically use her Kusarigama for both long-range and close combat. Her ability to blend into the shadows while also engaging in direct confrontations showcases her versatility. Additionally, her katana and throwable smoke bombs add layers to her combat strategy, allowing players to adapt to different situations seamlessly.
On the other hand, Yasuke relies on brute force and heavy armor to plow through enemies in direct combat. While lacking the finesse of stealth, his resilience and strength make him a formidable opponent in head-on clashes. His ability to break through walls and sustain multiple hits distinguishes him as a powerhouse akin to Eivor in Assassin’s Creed Valhalla or Jin Sakai in Ghost of Tsushima.
Despite their contrasting playstyles, Naoe emerges as the more versatile option, offering a balance between stealth and combat prowess. Her Kusarigama serves not only as an offensive weapon but also as a defensive tool for creating space and regrouping during intense battles. Players can seamlessly transition between stealthy takedowns and aggressive confrontations, providing a dynamic and engaging gameplay experience reminiscent of classic Assassin’s Creed titles.
While Naoe may lack the resilience and brute strength of Yasuke, her agility and strategic combat abilities make her a compelling choice for players seeking a blend of stealth and action. The option to switch between characters before each mission allows for experimentation and replayability, encouraging players to explore different combat approaches and strategies.
For a comprehensive gaming experience, players are encouraged to play through the entire campaign as both Naoe and Yasuke in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. By embracing the unique playstyles of each character, players can fully immerse themselves in the diverse gameplay mechanics and narrative intricacies of the game. As Ubisoft prepares for the release of Assassin’s Creed Shadows in February, players can look forward to embarking on an epic adventure that offers a fresh take on the beloved Assassin’s Creed franchise.