In *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*, players can choose between Yasuke and Naoe, each offering unique approaches to problem-solving. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the tools available and how to upgrade them to enhance your gameplay experience.
All Tools in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Image Source: Ubisoft via The Escapist
In total, players will gain access to five different tools in the game, with two being unlocked as part of the story progression. They include:
Grappling Hook
Naoe's Grappling Hook is a game-changer for exploration. It allows you to latch onto structures and ascend without needing handholds, perfect for scouting enemy positions from high vantage points. It also enables you to swing across large gaps, making navigation swift and efficient.
Kunai
These sharp throwing knives are essential for silent eliminations. A single Kunai can instantly kill common enemies, though upgrades are necessary to penetrate the armor of tougher foes, ensuring you remain undetected while taking out specific targets.
Smoke Bomb
This tool serves dual purposes: defense and offense. Deploying a Smoke Bomb creates a cloud that breaks enemy line of sight, ideal for quick escapes. In combat, it can confuse enemies, giving you the advantage for stealthy assassinations and swift attacks.
Shuriken
The classic ninja throwing star, Shuriken are vital for navigating heavily guarded areas. While they don’t deal as much damage as Kunai, they can stagger enemies and interact with the environment, such as triggering alarms or explosives. Upgrades allow them to ricochet for increased impact.
Shinobi Bell
Ideal for those who prefer distraction over direct confrontation, the Shinobi Bell can divert enemy attention, clearing your path. Upgrades enhance its range and add a golden shimmer, making it more effective at distracting multiple enemies at once.
Related: How to Play the Assassin’s Creed Games in Order
How To Upgrade Tools in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Image Source: Ubisoft via The Escapist
All tools, except the Grappling Hook, can be upgraded using Mastery Points through the Tools skill tree. The Shuriken, Shinobi Bell, and Smoke Bomb must be unlocked before they can be upgraded.
Grappling Hook
The only upgrade for the Grappling Hook is the Ascension Boost passive under the Shinobi Tree, costing 2 Mastery Points at Knowledge Rank 2. This upgrade significantly speeds up Naoe’s climbing, reducing the chance of detection during ascents.
Kunai
To maximize the Kunai's effectiveness, upgrade its assassination damage to remove more health segments per throw. The Armor Piercing passive skill enhances its ability to penetrate armor, while Everlast ensures thrown Kunai can be immediately retrieved without breaking.
Smoke Bomb
Once unlocked, extend the Smoke Bomb's duration with the Enduring Haze upgrade, adding 10 crucial seconds for strategic moves. The Widespread upgrade increases the area of effect, blocking more enemies from spotting you.
Shuriken
Enhance Shuriken with the Bank Shot passive, allowing them to bounce between targets with increasing damage per level. Triple Threat lets you throw three Shurikens simultaneously for the cost of one, offering versatile options in stealth and combat scenarios.
Shinobi Bell
Upgrade the Shinobi Bell with Golden Bell to increase its visibility, making it a more effective distraction tool. Louder Chimes extends its radius by five meters, attracting more enemies with each throw.
That’s all the essential information on the tools and their upgrades in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*. For more tips and guides, explore The Escapist.
*Assassin’s Creed Shadows is available now on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.*
