Yasuke: Assassin’s Creed Shadows – Character Guide

Yasuke is one of the two protagonists of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, who players get to step into the shoes of as they make their way across feudal Japan. The African samurai character embodies the well-known samurai ethos, dressed accordingly, and his outfit and armor show the opulence of his lord, Oda Nobunaga.

“Yasuke is a storied warrior, with origins in Mozambique where he was taken as a slave before eventually arriving in Japan in service of Jesuit missionaries. Much like the folded steel katana he comes to wield, Yasuke is resilient, honorable, and reliable, even as his troubled and painful past harden him against the world.” – Official Description.

What Role Does Yasuke Play in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?

He is one of the two protagonists of Shadows, and players will get to use him in gameplay and combat. His importance in the story and how much he will impact the narrative is still under wraps. We will learn more about it when the game finally launches in the next few days.

Is Yasuke based on a Historical Character?

Yasuke is based on the historical Japanese figure of the same name.

The latter is known as an African samurai who served Oda Nobunaga in the Sengoku period, roughly between 1851 and 1852. We only have a limited account of the historical Yasuke, namely that he was brought to Japan by the Italian Jesuit missionary Alessandro Valignano in 1579, met Nobunaga after being summoned sometime around 1581, was made a samurai by the Japanese feudal lord, and then served his master till Nobunaga’s death.

All Yasuke Weapons and Combat in AC Shadows

Yasuke has access to the following weapons in Assassin’s Creed Shadows:

• Long Katana
• Naginata
• Kanabo
• Yumi Bow
• Teppo Rifle

Samurai Yasuke’s combat movements and style differ from shinobi Naoe. For example, Naoe can dodge with directional rolls, while Yasuke will instead choose directional steps while remaining upright. When parrying, Yasuke can stand his ground and exploit enemies for a counterattack, whereas Naoe will pivot to either side of the enemy when deflecting an attack. We will have a detailed report on Yasuke’s combat once AC Shadows launches.

Also Read: 7 Things You Need to Know Before Playing Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Yasuke – AC Shadows Trivia

• Yasuke is voiced by Tongayi Chirisa.
• The choice of having Yasuke, an African samurai, was made to allow players to see feudal Japan through the experience of a foreigner. This also provides a contrast against Naoe.
• Yasuke also contrasts with Naoe in his personality. He is described as more level-headed, while the latter is known to be quick to anger.
• Yasuke’s inclusion in the game also caused much controversy. To a vocal group, the addition of a black figure in feudal Japan was a mark of forceful diversity.

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We provide the latest news and create guides for Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Meanwhile, you can check out the following AC Shadows articles or catch us playing games on Twitch and YouTube:

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• Who Are the Assassin’s Creed Shadows Protagonists? Everything We Know About Yasuke and Naoe
• Can You Play Assassin’s Creed Shadows on Steam Deck
• Assassin’s Creed Shadows Release Time Countdown for All Regions