Assassin's Creed Shadows boasts two playable protagonists: the skilled Shinobi, Naoe, and the formidable Samurai, Yasuke. However, the ability to freely switch between them isn't immediately available. Let's clarify when and how you can control each character.
While Assassin's Creed Shadows offers a vast open world, the game's beginning is linear. The roughly 90-minute prologue alternates between Naoe and Yasuke in predetermined sequences. After completing the prologue, you'll remain locked as Naoe for several hours. Don't expect to immediately play as Yasuke; the early game focuses entirely on Naoe's story.
Yasuke's first playable appearance is in the "Temple of the Horseman" quest, followed by a brief stint in the "Fire and Lightning" quest. Full protagonist switching freedom unlocks near the end of Act I, after these quests are complete.
How Long Until You Can Switch Protagonists in Assassin's Creed Shadows?
My playthrough took about 10 hours to reach the end of Act I and unlock free switching, though I explored many side activities. If you focus on the main story, you can likely reach this point in 6 to 8 hours.
How to Switch Between Yasuke and Naoe in Assassin's Creed Shadows
Once unlocked, switching is easy. Fast traveling offers two options: fast travel as your current character, or fast travel as the other. Selecting the latter instantly switches characters at your chosen location. This works at various points, including Synchronization points and Kakurega Hideouts. Certain story quests also provide the option to choose which character to play.
When Can't You Switch Protagonists?
While Act I concludes with the ability to freely switch, specific story moments and major quests will lock you into a single protagonist. Additionally, some character-specific quests and activities (indicated by a Samurai helmet for Yasuke and a Shinobi hood for Naoe) are exclusive to one character.
Assassin's Creed Shadows is available on March 20th for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.
