Assassin's Creed Shadows introduces an innovative feature called transmogging, allowing players to maintain their preferred weapon stats while customizing the appearance to their liking. Dive into the details of this game's rich progression and customization options, and discover how you can tailor your gameplay experience.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows Provides A Deep Dive on Progression
Transmogging and Weapon Customization
Assassin’s Creed Shadows (AC Shadows) offers an immersive journey into the game's progression system, featuring a robust transmogging system. On March 1, 2025, AC Shadows released a comprehensive overview on its website, detailing player progression and customization. Julien, the Associate Game Director, shared insights into the team's vision and the extensive customization possibilities within the game.
Players can utilize the transmog feature to alter their weapons' appearance while preserving their original stats. This option becomes available after constructing a Forge in the Hideout, accessible directly from the inventory menu. Julien emphasized, "The Forge is central to managing your inventory. Here, you can upgrade or dismantle weapons and gear. We'll delve deeper into the Hideout in an upcoming article." Moreover, players have the flexibility to mix and match weapon components, such as using the blade from one weapon, the guard from another, and the handle from a newly acquired one.
New Progression Loop
During IGN Fan Fest 2025, AC Shadows' Creative Director Charles Benoit discussed the game's combat mechanics and progression. A subsequent post from Ubisoft offered a more detailed exploration of the progression system and its underlying mechanics.
Julien highlighted the challenge of incorporating two protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, into the game's feudal Japan setting. She explained, "With two distinct characters and unique archetypes, we had to rethink our approach to player progression. Our aim was to adhere closely to the principles of mastery and martial arts."
Mastery, Abilities, and Knowledge Ranks
AC Shadows introduces unique Mastery trees for its protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, tailored to their archetypes as a shinobi and assassin, and a samurai, respectively. Julien stated, "Our Mastery trees allow players to focus on mastering a specific weapon, playstyle, or archetype. Points invested in these trees unlock additional bonuses, enhancing your progress."
Abilities within the Mastery trees offer new gameplay dynamics and increased damage potential. However, unlocking certain abilities and progressing within the Mastery tree requires reaching specific levels in the Knowledge Rank. This can be achieved through non-violent activities such as discovering Lost Pages in temples, engaging in prayer at Shrines, practicing Kuji-kiri Meditation for Naoe, or learning new Kata for Yasuke.
Customizing Your Playstyle
Players can craft their ideal playstyle in AC Shadows through various customization options. Perks enable players to "modify, enhance, or specialize equipment," offering stat boosts, influencing afflictions, or creating unique gameplay conditions.
Despite their initial archetypes, Naoe and Yasuke can be played in diverse ways. The game's post showcased potential builds, illustrating the depth of customization available. Naoe can adopt an exotic combat style, excelling in ground attacks and quick engagements and disengagements. Conversely, Yasuke can be tailored for stealth and ranged combat, with perks and abilities enhancing his stealth and archery skills.
With the excitement building over the past weeks leading to its release, fans are eagerly anticipating Assassin’s Creed Shadows. The game is set to launch on March 20, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Stay updated with the latest on Assassin’s Creed Shadows by checking out our dedicated article.
