Defeating Akechi Mitsuhide and the Horseman in AC Shadows

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After a long journey, we’re finally at the conclusion of Assassin’s Creed Shadows. The time has come to take down the Shinbakfu once and for all—a task that has required countless hours and numerous assassinations.

At this stage in the game, only two Shinbakfu members remain. Don’t fret; both can be eliminated through a few straightforward quests that are close together. Keep reading for strategies on how to finish up in Assassin’s Creed Shadows.

Wolves And Foxes

How To Complete Naoe’s Personal Journey

Once you defeat The Fox—the likely final target—you’ll see that Akechi Mitsuhide’s quest line will require you to complete Naoe’s personal journey. If you groaned at the lengthening of the quest, don’t worry. The requirements are quite easy.

Your first task is to finish four Kuji-Kiri missions, which serve as flashbacks into Naoe’s past. These missions are straightforward, and upon completing four of them, you’ll unlock a quest called Wolves and Foxes. Head over to Tokugawa’s location marked on the map. When you arrive, you’ll find him under attack, so clear out the enemies. Afterward, speak with Hanzo to complete this mission and unlock the next one titled Secrets of the Blade.

You can pursue Naoe’s personal quest line at this point, as it unlocks the Apprentice Assassin outfit. However, this moment also reopens Mitsuhide’s quest, technically completing Naoe’s personal journey. Though you haven’t truly completed it, this allows the main quest to continue without any additional delays until you finish the game.

The Peasant Who Would Be King

Where To Meet Lady Nene

Once you get to this point in Naoe’s quest, head north of the Hills of Meeting to meet Lady Nene at the designated spot on the map. A conversation with her will provide details about the mission ahead. It’s just a brief chat, so listen in, and then be ready to confront Mitsuhide.

Topple The Traitor

Where To Meet Hideyoshi

As you approach the end, you’ll need to meet Hideyoshi first to initiate the mission. He is located in Yamazaki, and a chat with him will set things into motion. You’ll have the option to play as either Naoe or Yasuke. The first leg of the mission focuses on securing a castle from some enemies, and I recommend playing as Yasuke to expedite things.

Once the mission starts, your main objective is to eliminate all enemies on the way to assassinate Mitsuhide, who is situated in the castle tower. Engage anyone who obstructs your path until you reach a locked door. As Naoe, you can climb over, but if you’re Yasuke, you’ll need to charge into the door to break through.

After this, a brief cutscene will show Mitsuhide attempting to escape on horseback. You’ll then switch to Naoe, who will pursue him. Keeping pace with Mitsuhide should be easy given your experience riding in Shadows.

Once you catch up to Mitsuhide, he will cease his escape, leading to the real battle.

Assassinating Akechi Mitsuhide

Once the dialogue ends, you’ll begin the fight controlling Yasuke before eventually switching to Naoe. Mitsuhide is a formidable opponent at Level 35 and employs a wide range of combat techniques, including heavy strikes that you’ll need to dodge and quick slashes that require precise parrying.

Beware of his unpredictable attack patterns. For instance, when he raises his sword for a strong strike, he may kick dirt to throw you off before the actual attack comes. His quick strikes often come from behind his back, so stay alert.

Once you break his armor and reduce his health by half, Naoe will swap in. Things get more challenging here as his speed increases, and he incorporates running strikes into his pattern. Fighting Mitsuhide requires even more vigilance during this round.

Once you’ve overcome Mitsuhide, he will reveal the contents of the box and identify who possesses it. You’ll subsequently face a choice regarding who you want to take the final shot at Mitsuhide. Personally, I chose Yasuke since I had played more as him, though Naoe may be more fitting for that last blow.

The Man Behind The Mask

Assassinating Ashikaga Yoshiaki

With all missions completed, you’re headed toward a rather anticlimactic conclusion for Assassin’s Creed Shadows and the Shinbakfu saga. Make your way to the northern part of Genbu Highlands, where you’ll find Ashikaga Yoshiaki waiting for his fate. Your dialogue choices here are limited.

This mission culminates in a cutscene that concludes with you sparing Yoshiaki, regardless of your intentions. This marks the end of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, but you can continue to the epilogue to view the real credits, which will be covered in a separate guide.