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

Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces two intriguing protagonists: the Shinobi Naoe and the Samurai Yasuke. As the game's release approaches, many are curious about how and when you can switch between these characters. Let's delve into when and how you can control 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 beginning is quite linear. In the prologue, which lasts about 90 minutes, players will alternate between Naoe and Yasuke at specific moments. Once the prologue ends, players are locked into playing as Naoe for several hours.

For those eager to embody a Samurai immediately, it's important to note that you'll need to play as Naoe until nearly the end of the first act. The early game focuses entirely on her, with Yasuke absent until 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 freedom to switch between the two characters more freely.

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

In my playthrough, it took about 10 hours to reach the end of Act I and unlock the ability to freely switch between protagonists. This duration included a lot of side content. If players focus solely on the main storyline, they can likely reach this point in 6 to 8 hours, allowing them to fully experience Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ dual protagonists.

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 see two options: one to fast travel as the current character and another to switch to the other protagonist at the chosen location. This feature works at various points on the map, including Synchronization points and Kakurega Hideouts.

Additionally, during certain story quests, players can 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

After Act I, players enjoy significant freedom to choose their preferred protagonist in the open world of Assassin’s Creed Shadows. However, there are specific story moments and major quests where the protagonist is locked for particular scenes and quests.

It's also important to mention that there are character-specific quests and activities. Naoe and Yasuke each have unique quests that delve into their backstories before they met, featuring only one character. Some side activities are also exclusive to either Naoe or Yasuke, marked 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.