As I watch a mission unfold for a second time in Assassin's Creed Shadows, it's never more apparent that the upcoming adventure set in Feudal Japan puts the freedom to choose our approach at the forefront. With the goal of assassinating a daiymo in a castle, I at first get to see shinobi protagonist Naoe's stealthy path to complete the objective. Using a grappling hook to silently swing into the complex with ease, she utilizes the shadows to hide from foes, throws a Shuriken to snuff out a light to cloak her presence, and has the signature Eagle Vision ability to keep tabs on the location of nearby enemies. When she chances upon an innocent bystander who happens to notice her, Naoe is able to use her grappling hook to perform a non-lethal takedown to avoid unnecessary bloodshed. Once the quarry is in sight, she goes fully prone through a shallow pond and uses a bamboo stick to breathe, before delivering a stylish killing hidden blade blow.
Switching over to Yaskue, it's an entirely different story. Since he can't parkour across rooftops like Naoe, he instead rocks right up to the entrance and smashes his way through the gate in broad daylight. The Samurai's imposing presence is on full display and everyone knows he's here. Landing hits with a sizable war hammer, Yasuke is a true force to be reckoned with, and it's not long before the same quarry is taken out - albeit in a less subtle fashion at the end of a Katana blade. The contrast between the pair is immediately obvious, with both offering different ways to tackle the same overall goal. Who you play and how you play in Assassin's Creed Shadows is ultimately left up to you.
