Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces a groundbreaking feature: transmogging, which allows players to maintain the stats of their weapons while adopting their preferred cosmetic appearance. Dive into the details of the game's progression system and explore the extensive customization options available.

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, featuring the ability to transmog weapons to align with their desired aesthetic and stats. On March 1, 2025, AC Shadows released a detailed guide on their website, explaining how player progression and customization function within the game. Julien, the Associate Game Director, shared the team’s vision and detailed the customization options available.

The transmog feature allows players to alter the appearance of their weapons while retaining their original stats. This can be unlocked by building a Forge in the Hideout, accessible directly from the inventory menu. Julien noted, "The Forge is crucial for managing your inventory. You can upgrade or dismantle weapons and gear, and we'll provide more details in an upcoming article about the Hideout." Players can also mix and match different weapon components, such as using the blade from one weapon, the guard from another, and the handle from a newly acquired one.

New Progression Loop

At IGN Fan Fest 2025, AC Shadows’ Creative Director Charles Benoit discussed the game’s combat mechanics and progression. Ubisoft's recent post delves deeper into the mechanics of player progression.

Julien explained the approach to progression with two protagonists, stating, "Having two separate characters with unique archetypes in our feudal Japan world pushed us to rethink how we wanted to approach player progression." She added, "Our goal was to stay as close as possible to the philosophy of mastery and martial art."

Mastery, Abilities, and Knowledge Ranks

AC Shadows features unique mastery trees for its two protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, focusing on their distinct archetypes: Naoe as a shinobi and assassin, and Yasuke as a samurai.

Julien emphasized, "With the unique Mastery trees, we want to give players the freedom to dedicate themselves to a specific weapon, playstyle, or archetype, deepening their mastery of it." She continued, "The points you invest in a Mastery tree also unlock additional bonuses for that weapon or archetype, reinforcing your progress."

Abilities within the Mastery trees offer new gameplay dynamics and increased damage to enemies. However, some abilities and points are only accessible after reaching specific levels in the Knowledge Rank. This rank can be increased 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

Players can craft their ultimate playstyle with AC Shadows' extensive customization options. Perks allow players to "modify, enhance, or specialize a piece of equipment," offering stat improvements, influencing afflictions, or creating different conditions that encourage varied gameplay.

Despite their initial archetypes, Naoe and Yasuke can be customized to suit different playstyles. The game's guide provides potential builds for each character, showcasing the depth of customization. Naoe can adopt an exotic combat style, enhancing ground attacks for quick engagement and disengagement with enemies. Conversely, Yasuke can be tailored for stealth and ranged combat, with perks and abilities that boost his stealth and archery skills.

With the recent insights into AC Shadows, fans are eagerly anticipating the game's release, which promises a rich and engaging experience.

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 information on Assassin’s Creed Shadows by checking out our article below!