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Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Key Choices and Their Impact
In Assassin’s Creed Shadows, players face numerous crucial decisions that can significantly alter the narrative. From the very first scene, choices begin to emerge, with dialogue options woven throughout both the main story and side missions. These decisions influence mission outcomes, the resolution of various story arcs, and can even determine the fate of certain characters.
[Warning: This article includes minor spoilers for Assassin’s Creed Shadows.]
The introduction of a new "canon mode" allows players to let the story unfold without making their own choices. When this mode is activated, all dialogue selections are pre-determined. However, it’s important to note that following the canon storyline does not necessarily lead to the most favorable outcomes. If you decide to take control of your choices, here’s a glimpse at the significant decisions you’ll encounter in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. This list may grow as the game evolves and more players explore its depths.
Should You Tell Oda Nobunaga You Understand Him?
Understanding Dialogue Choices
At the start, playing as Yasuke, you’ll find yourself in a meeting with Oda Nobunaga and your Portuguese companions. During this encounter, Yasuke can express that he follows their conversation or remain silent. Ultimately, this early choice is inconsequential—it’s merely a tutorial on the dialogue system. Throughout the game, there will be several minor decisions like this that only affect the immediate dialogue, so not every choice carries severe consequences.
Should You Bribe or Kill the Gunsmith in "Searching Sakai"?
Naoe’s Initial Decision
After Naoe’s home is decimated and her family falls victim to Oda’s forces, your quest to locate your first group of assassins—the Onryo—begins. While attempting to find the corrupt gunsmith in Sakai, eavesdrop on his conversation, and you’ll get a chance to confront him with various dialogue options.
It doesn’t matter which choice you make initially, but be sure to threaten him when the opportunity arises rather than opting for bribery, as this leads to a far more suitable outcome for Naoe’s character.
What Gift Should You Choose for the Tea Ceremony?
Ladle, Pot, or Jar?
Before attending a tea ceremony to pursue the Golden Teppo, you’ll learn about the associated customs. Your mentor, Sen No Rikyu, lets you select between a ladle, a jar, or a pot as a gift for your host. Choosing any of these gifts will be appreciated, so feel free to pick based on your preference.
Should You Confront Wakasa or Otama?
During your search for the Golden Teppo, a tea ceremony lays the groundwork for locating the culprit. At the end of the ceremony, you can choose to confront either Wakasa or Otama. Confronting Wakasa will streamline your objectives, helping you advance more swiftly.
Should You Allow Mitsumune to Kill the Surrendering Samurai?
The Dangers of Revenge
Upon eliminating your target Koretake, your companion Mitsuhide encounters surrendering soldiers and considers putting them to death. While Mitsuhide and Naoe seek vengeance, Yaya advocates for mercy. To maintain Yaya’s support and continue her questline, you should criticize Mitsumune’s intention to kill, keeping Yaya aligned with your efforts.
Should You Search for Junjiro or Mitsuhide First?
The Aftermath of the Honnoji Incident
Post-Honnoji Incident, where Nobunaga meets his demise, Naoe must choose to pursue either Mitsuhide, whose betrayal caused her troubles, or Junjiro, who cared for her after her home was attacked. We suggest you pursue Junjiro; he deserves your attention, while Mitsuhide can wait.
Should You Forgive or Punish the Shrine Raiders?
Yaya’s Journey
During the early quests, you’ll forge a bond with Yaya, who values forgiveness. You’ll face choices regarding whether to exact revenge on a group of shrine raiders. Opt for forgiveness to gain Yaya as a companion, allowing her to assist you in battles.
Tip for Summoning Yaya: To call on Yaya (or any recruited character), hold L2/LT and press the corresponding button shown in the lower right corner of the screen.
If you choose to execute the raiders, Yaya may leave, deeming your methods too brutal. As she’s a valuable ally capable of distracting foes while you sneak away, it’s advisable to recruit her when possible.
Should You Talk to or Kill the Oni?
Meeting Gennojo
As you continue your efforts against the Shinbakufu, rumors of an oni hiding in a bamboo grove surface. In this grove, you’ll encounter a thief. If you sneak up on him, you can either kill him or engage him in conversation. Although combat will ensue regardless, it’s wise to converse first to learn more about him, as Gennojo becomes a significant character and potential romantic interest for Naoe.
Should You Stop Gennojo, Soothe Gennojo, or Do Nothing?
Saving Gennojo’s Life
Later in Gennojo’s storyline, he contemplates destroying a building at the risk of his own life. You must decide to either stop him, comfort him, or remain passive. Either of the first two options will save him, while doing nothing will lead to his demise. Be aware that this decision is time-sensitive; if you wait too long, the game will default to doing nothing.
Saving Gennojo grants you access to him as a member of The League, similar to Yaya. Therefore, it’s crucial to prevent him from sacrificing himself.
These represent the major choices currently associated with Assassin’s Creed Shadows and their multiple outcomes. As players continue their journey, more decisions and consequences will emerge, enhancing the game’s depth and replayability.