*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* introduces an intriguing dual protagonist system with the Shinobi Naoe and the Samurai Yasuke. As the game approaches its launch, many fans are eager to understand when and how they can switch between these two characters. Here’s a detailed guide on when you can switch between Naoe and Yasuke in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ Intro is Heavy on Naoe
While *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* boasts a vast open world, its beginning is more linear. The game's prologue, which lasts approximately 90 minutes, features alternating sequences between Naoe and Yasuke. After completing the prologue, players remain locked into playing as Naoe for several hours.
For those looking to dive straight into the Samurai experience, there's a bit of a wait. Players must stick with Naoe until nearly the end of the game’s first act. The early game focuses entirely on Naoe, with Yasuke absent until the Temple of the Horseman Quest. Yasuke then becomes playable during the Fire and Lightning Quest. Once Act I is completed, players gain the freedom to switch between the two protagonists 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 about 10 hours. This included engaging in a lot of side content. If players aim to rush through the first act to experience the dual protagonists, they can likely reach this point in approximately 6 to 8 hours.
How to Switch Between Yasuke and Naoe in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Once players unlock the ability to freely play as Naoe and Yasuke, switching between them is straightforward. One method is by using 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 fast travel as the other protagonist. Choosing the latter option will switch your character at the selected location, whether it's a Synchronization point or a Kakurega Hideout.
Additionally, certain story quests allow players to choose which protagonist to play as when the quest is presented to the other character.
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 locked in for particular scenes and quests.
It's important to note that there are character-specific quests and activities. Naoe and Yasuke each have unique quests that delve into their backgrounds before they met, featuring only one character. There are also side activities that must be completed by either Naoe or Yasuke, indicated by 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.
