In *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*, players can choose to play as Yasuke or Naoe, each offering unique approaches to tackling challenges. Understanding the tools available and how to upgrade them is crucial for mastering the game. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the tools in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* and their upgrades.
All Tools in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Players will unlock a total of five different tools throughout the game, with two becoming available as part of the story progression. Here’s a detailed look at each tool:
Grappling Hook
Naoe's Grappling Hook is essential for exploration, allowing you to latch onto structures and ascend without needing handholds. It's perfect for reaching high vantage points to survey enemy movements or swiftly crossing large gaps. This tool streamlines your navigation through the game world.
Kunai
The Kunai is a potent throwing knife designed for stealth kills. It can instantly eliminate regular enemies, but upgrades are necessary to tackle armored foes. This tool is indispensable for those who prioritize silent eliminations.
Smoke Bomb
The Smoke Bomb creates a dense cloud of smoke upon impact, serving both defensive and offensive purposes. Use it to break enemy lines of sight for a quick escape, or deploy it in combat to confuse enemies, setting up surprise attacks and swift takedowns.
Shuriken
The Shuriken, a classic shinobi weapon, is perfect for navigating heavily guarded areas. Though not as damaging as the Kunai, it can stagger enemies and trigger environmental interactions like sabotaging alarms or detonating barrels. Its silent nature and upgrade potential make it versatile for stealth and combat scenarios.
Shinobi Bell
For players who prefer distraction over direct confrontation, the Shinobi Bell is ideal. Throwing it creates a sound that draws enemies away from your position. Upgrades can enhance its range and visibility, making it an effective tool for crowd control and path clearing.
Related: How to Play the Assassin’s Creed Games in Order
How To Upgrade Tools in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Most tools in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* can be upgraded using Mastery Points through the Tools skill tree, with the exception of the Grappling Hook. Here’s how to enhance each tool:
Grappling Hook
The Grappling Hook has a single upgrade available in the Shinobi Tree. For 2 Mastery Points at Knowledge Rank 2, you can unlock the Ascension Boost passive, which significantly increases Naoe's climbing speed, making it easier to ascend without being detected.
Kunai
To maximize the Kunai's effectiveness, focus on upgrades like Kunai Assassination Damage, which increases the health segments removed per throw. Enhance its armor-piercing capabilities with the Armor Piercing passive skill, and use Everlast to ensure thrown Kunai can be immediately retrieved without breaking.
Smoke Bomb
After unlocking the Smoke Bomb, upgrade its duration with Enduring Haze, adding 10 seconds to its effect. For broader coverage, Widespread increases the area of effect, enhancing its utility in both escape and combat scenarios.
Shuriken
Upgrade the Shuriken with Bank Shot, enabling it to bounce between targets with escalating damage. Triple Threat allows you to throw three Shurikens at once for the cost of one, offering enhanced options in stealth and combat situations.
Shinobi Bell
Enhance the Shinobi Bell with Golden Bell to increase its visibility and effectiveness as a distraction. Follow up with Louder Chimes to extend its effective radius by five meters, allowing you to lure more enemies with a single throw.
This guide covers all the essential details about the tools and their upgrades in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*. For more tips and assistance with the game, be sure to check out resources available on The Escapist.
*Assassin’s Creed Shadows is available now on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.*
