Assassin's Creed Shadows introduces a dynamic transmogging system that allows players to maintain the stats of their weapons while customizing their appearance. Dive into the details of this feature and explore the extensive customization options available in the game.
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 the game's progression system, which includes a sophisticated transmog feature. On March 1, 2025, AC Shadows released a detailed summary on its website about how player progression and customization work within the game. Associate Game Director Julien shared insights into the team's vision and the extensive customization options available.
In AC Shadows, players can use the transmog system to alter the appearance of their weapons without affecting their stats. This allows players to equip weapons they love the stats of but prefer the look of another. To unlock this feature, players must build a Forge in the Hideout, which then becomes accessible directly from the inventory menu.
Julien explained, "The Forge is central to managing your inventory. It's where you can upgrade or dismantle your weapons and gear, and we'll share more details about the Hideout in an upcoming article." Players can also mix and match different parts of weapons, such as combining the blade of one weapon with the guard of another and the handle of a third, creating a unique look tailored to their preferences.
New Progression Loop
At IGN Fan Fest 2025, AC Shadows' Creative Director Charles Benoit discussed the game's combat mechanics and progression. Following this, Ubisoft provided a deeper look into the game's progression mechanics and how they function.
Julien highlighted the challenge of designing progression for two protagonists in a feudal Japan setting, stating, "Having two distinct characters with unique archetypes pushed us to rethink our approach to player progression." She added, "Our goal was to stay true to the philosophy 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, the shinobi and assassin, and Yasuke, the samurai, each have a mastery tree designed to enhance their skills and playstyles.
Julien explained, "With the unique Mastery trees, we aim to give players the freedom to specialize in a specific weapon, playstyle, or archetype, deepening their mastery." She continued, "Points invested in the Mastery tree unlock additional bonuses, reinforcing your progress."
Abilities within the Mastery trees unlock new gameplay mechanics and increase damage output. However, some abilities and points are only accessible once players reach certain Knowledge Ranks, which can be increased through non-violent activities like finding Lost Pages in temples, praying at Shrines, performing Kuji-kiri Meditation for Naoe, or learning new Kata for Yasuke.
Customizing Your Playstyle
AC Shadows allows players to customize their playstyle extensively. Perks enable players to "modify, enhance, or specialize a piece of equipment," offering stat improvements, influencing afflictions, or creating different conditions that encourage varied playstyles.
Despite their initial archetypes, Naoe and Yasuke can be played in diverse ways. The game provides examples of different builds for each character, showcasing the depth of customization. Naoe can adopt an exotic combat style, focusing on ground attacks and quick engagement and disengagement. Meanwhile, Yasuke can be built for stealth and ranged combat, with perks and abilities enhancing his stealth and archery skills.
With the excitement building over the past few weeks, fans are eagerly awaiting the release of Assassin's Creed Shadows, a game they have long anticipated.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set to launch on March 20, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Stay updated with the latest news on Assassin’s Creed Shadows by checking out our articles below!
