Knowing how to switch weapons in Assassin’s Creed Shadows is essential to mastering combat and adapting to different playstyles. With dual protagonists—Naoe and Yasuke—each offering distinct combat options, switching weapons efficiently can make or break your strategy during stealth missions or full-on samurai showdowns. This guide will walk you through exactly how to switch weapons on every platform and explain the best ways to customize your loadout in Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
How to Switch Weapons in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Switching weapons in Assassin’s Creed Shadows depends on your platform, and the control scheme varies slightly depending on whether you’re using Yasuke or Naoe. Here’s how to switch between your equipped weapons:
On Console:
Simply press right on the D-pad.
How the Weapon System Works
Each character in Assassin’s Creed Shadows can carry multiple weapons, but how many depends on their class and gear level. Yasuke, the samurai, typically carries a katana, a heavy weapon like a kanabo, and a ranged option. Naoe, being a shinobi, often carries lighter gear such as kunai, a short blade, and a ranged bow or matchlock firearm.
Both characters have customizable loadouts you can manage at forges, your hideout, or during mission planning. You’ll be able to assign two primary weapons and one ranged weapon. Some tools—like smoke bombs or grappling hooks—occupy utility slots and are accessed via a different menu, not the standard weapon wheel.
How to Customize Loadouts
To make switching weapons faster in combat, it’s important to customize your loadouts:
- Visit any blacksmith or your hideout’s gear bench.
- Select “Loadout” from the menu.
- Assign a primary melee weapon, a secondary backup weapon, and one ranged option.
- Use this menu to also assign quick-swap items like throwing knives or distraction tools.
Having a good loadout will ensure that when you switch weapons, you’re always pulling out something useful for the combat situation at hand.
Why Switching Weapons Matters
In Assassin’s Creed Shadows, enemy types vary widely. Some wear heavy armor that requires blunt-force weapons, while others move quickly and are best dealt with using fast, agile tools. Switching between a katana and a ranged bow, or from a stealth blade to a heavy axe, gives you the versatility to handle every encounter efficiently.
Switching also plays into the game’s stealth vs. aggression mechanic. Naoe can quickly change from non-lethal takedowns to a rapid escape strategy using tools, while Yasuke benefits from swapping between brute force and crowd control weapons during large-scale fights.
Tips for Efficient Weapon Switching
Assign your most-used weapon to the default slot for faster access. Practice using the weapon wheel during downtime so it becomes second nature in battle. Upgrade your weapon slots at the hideout to unlock additional quick-swap options. Remember that some weapons also affect stamina and stealth—heavier weapons make more noise and drain stamina faster.
Can You Switch Weapons During Combat?
Yes, you can switch weapons during combat, but it comes with a slight animation delay. This adds realism and strategy to fights, especially in boss battles or large group encounters. Plan your switches during low-stakes moments or between enemy attacks to avoid being caught off guard.
How to Unlock More Weapon Types
More weapons become available as you progress through the main story, complete side quests, and explore hidden locations. Some weapons are faction-based, and others are only found through treasure hunts or completing Kakurega contracts. As you unlock more, be sure to experiment and find what suits your playstyle best.
Learning how to switch weapons in Assassin’s Creed Shadows is more than just a mechanical skill—it’s a core part of mastering both Yasuke’s strength and Naoe’s finesse. Whether you’re taking on bandits in the countryside or infiltrating enemy strongholds, switching the right weapon at the right moment will give you the edge. Use the weapon wheel, customize your loadout, and practice your timing to make the most of Shadows’ rich, tactical combat system.