Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces a revolutionary feature for fans: transmogging, allowing players to customize their weapons and items to reflect their preferred aesthetic while retaining the stats they desire. Dive in to explore the extensive progression and customization options the game offers.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows Provides A Deep Dive on Progression
Transmogging and Weapon Customization
Assassin’s Creed Shadows (AC Shadows) offers players a comprehensive look at its progression system, featuring a detailed transmogging system. On March 1, 2025, AC Shadows shared an in-depth summary on its website, detailing how players can customize their weapons and progress through the game. Julien, the Associate Game Director, provided insights into the team's vision and the extensive customizability available.
In AC Shadows, players can utilize the transmog feature to alter the appearance of their weapons while preserving their desired stats. This can be achieved by establishing a Forge in the Hideout, which then becomes accessible through the inventory menu. Julien noted, "The Forge is central to managing your inventory, allowing you to upgrade or dismantle your weapons and gear. We'll delve deeper into the Hideout in a future article." Players can also mix and match various weapon parts, resulting in unique combinations like "the blade of one weapon, with the guard of another, and the handle of a newly acquired one."
New Progression Loop
Previously, during IGN Fan Fest 2025, Charles Benoit, the Creative Director, discussed the game's combat mechanics and progression. Ubisoft's recent post expands on how player progression works and introduces the mechanics behind it.
Julien highlighted the challenge and opportunity of having two protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, saying, "Having two distinct characters with unique archetypes in our feudal Japan setting inspired us to reimagine player progression. We aimed to align closely with the principles of mastery and martial arts."
Mastery, Abilities, and Knowledge Ranks
AC Shadows features unique mastery trees for its protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, tailored to their respective archetypes—Naoe as a shinobi and assassin, and Yasuke as a samurai. Julien explained, "Our goal with the Mastery trees is to allow players to specialize in a specific weapon, playstyle, or archetype, deepening their mastery over time." Investing points in these trees unlocks additional bonuses, enhancing the player's chosen path.
Abilities within the Mastery trees offer new gameplay dynamics and increased damage against enemies. However, certain abilities and tree points are only accessible once players reach specific Knowledge Ranks. These ranks can be elevated through non-violent activities such as "finding Lost Pages in temples, praying at Shrines, practicing Kuji-kiri Meditation for Naoe, or learning new Kata for Yasuke."
Customizing Your Playstyle
AC Shadows empowers players to craft their ultimate playstyle through various customization features. Perks enable players to "modify, enhance, or specialize a piece of equipment," offering stat improvements, influencing afflictions, or creating different gameplay conditions.
Despite their initial archetypes, both Naoe and Yasuke can be customized to fit different playstyles. The game showcases potential builds for each character, illustrating the depth of customization available. Naoe can adopt an exotic combat style, enhancing her ground attacks and agility for quick engagement and disengagement. Conversely, Yasuke can be geared toward stealth and ranged combat, with perks and abilities boosting his stealth and archery skills.
With the excitement building up to its release, fans are eager to experience the long-awaited Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is scheduled for release on March 20, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Stay updated with the latest news on Assassin’s Creed Shadows by checking out our article below!
