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

Assassin's Creed Shadows introduces a transformative feature with its transmogging system, allowing players to maintain their preferred weapon aesthetics while optimizing their stats. Dive into the details to discover how this game enhances player progression and offers extensive customization options.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows Provides A Deep Dive on Progression

Transmogging and Weapon Customization

Assassin’s Creed Shadows (AC Shadows) offers players a comprehensive view of the game’s progression, spotlighting the innovative transmog system. This feature allows players to customize their weapons' appearance while retaining desired stats. On March 1, 2025, AC Shadows detailed on its official website how player progression and customization function within the game. Julien, the Associate Game Director, shared insights into the team’s vision, emphasizing the game’s deep customizability.

In AC Shadows, players can utilize the transmog feature to alter the look of their weapons without affecting their stats. To access this feature, players must first unlock the Forge in the Hideout, which then becomes available directly through the inventory menu.

Julien noted, "The Forge is central to managing your inventory. Here, players can not only transmog but also upgrade or dismantle their gear. We'll delve deeper into the Hideout's functionalities in an upcoming article." Additionally, players can mix elements from different weapons, crafting a unique look by combining, for instance, the blade of one weapon, the guard of another, and the handle of a third.

New Progression Loop

At IGN Fan Fest 2025, AC Shadows’ Creative Director Charles Benoit introduced the game’s combat mechanics and progression. Ubisoft later expanded on these concepts, providing a thorough explanation of the progression system and its mechanics.

Julien discussed the challenges and opportunities of developing progression for two protagonists in the game's feudal Japan setting. She stated, "With two distinct characters and unique archetypes, we reimagined player progression, aiming to reflect the philosophy of mastery and martial arts."

Mastery, Abilities, and Knowledge Ranks

AC Shadows features unique mastery trees for its protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, tailored to their archetypes as a shinobi and assassin, and a samurai, respectively.

Julien explained, "Our mastery trees encourage players to specialize in a weapon, playstyle, or archetype, deepening their mastery over time." She added, "Investing points in the Mastery tree unlocks bonuses that enhance your chosen weapon or archetype, reinforcing your progress."

Within these trees, players can unlock abilities that add new gameplay dynamics and increase damage output. However, accessing some abilities and higher Mastery levels requires reaching specific Knowledge Ranks. These ranks are achieved through non-violent activities such as discovering Lost Pages in temples, praying at Shrines, practicing Kuji-kiri Meditation for Naoe, or mastering new Kata for Yasuke.

Customizing Your Playstyle

Players can tailor their gameplay experience in AC Shadows by utilizing various customization features. Perks allow for the modification, enhancement, or specialization of equipment, affecting stats, afflictions, and gameplay conditions, encouraging diverse playstyles.

Although Naoe and Yasuke start with set archetypes, players have the freedom to customize their playstyles extensively. The game provides examples of potential builds, such as Naoe adopting an exotic combat style that excels in ground attacks and quick engagements, or Yasuke focusing on stealth and ranged combat, with perks and abilities that enhance these aspects.

As AC Shadows gears up for its release, the anticipation among fans continues to grow, eager to explore the game's rich customization and progression systems.

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 related articles below!