In Assassin’s Creed Shadows, players are introduced to two dynamic protagonists: Naoi, a stealthy and agile shinobi, and Yasuke, the powerful and historic African samurai. One of the game’s most exciting features is the ability to switch between these two characters—but it’s important to understand how and when this mechanic becomes available.
When Do You Unlock Yasuke in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
While Naoi is available from the early stages of the game, Yasuke in Assassin’s Creed isn’t unlocked until later—roughly 8 to 10 hours into the story. The exact timing depends on how focused you are on progressing through the main storyline. Yasuke is locked behind a series of narrative missions, so if you spend a lot of time exploring or completing side quests, you might access him later.
Swapping Between Characters: Naoi and Yasuke
Once Yasuke is unlocked, switching between characters becomes seamless. You can swap between Naoi and Yasuke at any moment, provided you’re not in the middle of combat or a mission that restricts the character.
To swap:
- Open your inventory.
- Look for a button at the bottom of the screen that says “Play as Yasuke” (if you’re currently using Naoi), or “Play as Naoi” (if you’re using Yasuke).
- Hold the button to instantly switch characters at your current location.
Alternatively, you can fast travel to a new location and select which character you’d like to play as when you arrive. This gives players a bit of flexibility when strategizing missions or traveling across feudal Japan.
Character-Specific Objectives
While many objectives can be completed with either character, some missions are exclusive to Naoi or Yasuke. For example, stealth-focused tasks often favor Naoi’s skills in assassination, while Yasuke’s missions highlight his brute strength and combat prowess. Choosing the right character for each mission can impact your success and experience in different ways.
Side Quest Exclusive to Yasuke
One of the most intriguing side quests in Assassin’s Creed Shadows is hidden deep within the Izumi Settsu region—the Makino Kurumazuka Kofun, a mysterious, barricaded tomb only accessible to Yasuke. This guide will walk you through how to enter the tomb, clear the path blocked by massive boulders, solve the environmental puzzles, and claim the legendary reward waiting inside.
Tomb Access: When Can You Explore the Makino Kurumazuka Kofun?
The Makino Kurumazuka Kofun is located between a pair of striking orange statues and is accessed via a stone staircase. However, you’ll find that the tomb is initially inaccessible if you’re playing as Naoe. The entrance is completely blocked by large boulders that only Yasuke can clear.
To explore this tomb:
- Progress through the main storyline until Yasuke is permanently unlocked (roughly 8–10 hours into the game).
- Once available, return to the location as Yasuke to proceed with the side quest.
How to Remove the Boulders Blocking the Entrance
Yasuke possesses the unique strength needed to interact with large red explosive jugs found near the tomb’s entrance. Here’s what to do:
- Pick up a red jug as Yasuke—Naoe cannot interact with them.
- Place the jug next to the boulders.
- Use a ranged weapon, like Yasuke’s rifle, to detonate the jug and destroy the barricade.
Tomb Puzzle Guide – Designed for Yasuke Only
The interior of the Makino Kurumazuka Kofun is filled with puzzles and obstacles designed exclusively for Yasuke:
1. Explosive Jug Puzzles
- Use red jugs to clear additional barricades and weakened walls.
- One tricky section requires throwing a jug to a high ledge, then climbing onto it to access the final room.
2. Heavy Object Puzzles
- Yasuke can move large stone chests and crates to solve pathfinding puzzles.
- Some objects can only be pushed or pulled from a specific direction.
- Tip: Plan the order you move chests to avoid blocking your path or losing access to climbable surfaces.
Legendary Reward: Yasuke’s Bow
The ultimate goal of the tomb is to reach a large legendary chest containing a powerful bow for Yasuke. The bow’s stats will scale to your current level, making it a valuable upgrade regardless of when you complete the tomb.
- Along the way, you’ll also encounter smaller loot chests with additional resources and gear.
- After collecting the treasure, use the newly accessible exit to return to the surface.
Final Thoughts
The dual-character system in Assassin’s Creed Shadows adds a fresh layer of strategy and narrative depth to the game. Whether you prefer Yasuke’s powerful samurai combat or Naoi’s sleek assassination tactics, the ability to switch between them enhances both gameplay and immersion.
