Assassin's Creed Shadows Introduces Transmogging: Change Weapon Stats While Retaining Appearance

Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces a groundbreaking feature: transmogging, allowing players to maintain their preferred weapon stats while customizing their aesthetic appeal. Dive into the details of the game's progression system and explore the extensive customization options available.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows Provides A Deep Dive on Progression

Transmogging and Weapon Customization

Assassin’s Creed Shadows (AC Shadows) offers an immersive look into its progression system, featuring a robust transmog system. On March 1, 2025, AC Shadows released a comprehensive overview on their website, detailing how players can customize and progress within the game. Julien, the Associate Game Director, shared insights into the team's vision and the game's extensive customization capabilities.

The transmog feature allows players to alter the appearance of their weapons while retaining their original stats. This can be achieved by constructing a Forge in the Hideout, which then becomes accessible through the inventory menu. Julien noted, "The Forge is central to managing your inventory, where you can upgrade or dismantle weapons and gear. We'll delve deeper into the Hideout in a future article." Players can also mix and match different parts of weapons, such as combining the blade of one weapon with the guard of another and the handle of a third, to create a unique look.

New Progression Loop

At IGN Fan Fest 2025, AC Shadows’ Creative Director Charles Benoit discussed the game’s combat mechanics and progression. Ubisoft's latest post provides a more detailed exploration of the progression system and its underlying mechanics.

Julien explained the approach to progression with two protagonists, stating, "Having two separate characters with unique archetypes in our feudal Japan setting inspired us to rethink player progression. Our aim was to align closely with the philosophy of mastery and martial arts."

Mastery, Abilities, and Knowledge Ranks

AC Shadows features distinct mastery trees for its protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, tailored to their archetypes—Naoe as a shinobi and assassin, and Yasuke as a samurai. Julien elaborated, "The unique Mastery trees allow players to focus on mastering a specific weapon, playstyle, or archetype. Investing points in these trees unlocks additional bonuses, enhancing your progress."

Abilities within the Mastery trees offer new gameplay dynamics and increased damage against enemies. However, access to certain abilities and points in the Mastery tree is contingent upon reaching specific Knowledge Ranks. These ranks can be elevated through non-violent activities such as discovering Lost Pages in temples, praying at Shrines, practicing Kuji-kiri Meditation for Naoe, or learning new Kata for Yasuke.

Customizing Your Playstyle

AC Shadows empowers players to craft their ultimate playstyle through various customization options. Perks enable players to "modify, enhance, or specialize a piece of equipment," offering stat improvements, influencing afflictions, or creating different gameplay conditions.

Despite their initial archetypes, Naoe and Yasuke can be tailored to different playstyles. The game's post showcased potential builds for each character, highlighting the depth of customization. Naoe can adopt an exotic combat style, excelling in ground attacks and quick engagements and disengagements. Conversely, Yasuke can be configured for stealth and ranged combat, with perks and abilities enhancing his stealth and archery skills.

With the excitement building over the past few weeks, fans eagerly anticipate the release of Assassin’s Creed Shadows, a game they've long awaited.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is scheduled for release on March 20, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Stay updated with the latest on Assassin’s Creed Shadows by checking out our article below!