Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Tools and Upgrade Guide

In *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*, players can choose between Yasuke and Naoe, each offering unique approaches to solving in-game challenges. Understanding and upgrading the tools at your disposal is crucial for mastering the game. Here’s a comprehensive guide on all tools available and how to enhance them.

All Tools in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Players will have access to five distinct tools in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*, with two unlocked through story progression. Here's a detailed look at each tool:

Grappling Hook

The Grappling Hook is a pivotal tool for Naoe, enhancing her exploration capabilities. It allows you to latch onto structures and ascend without handholds, ideal for reaching strategic vantage points swiftly. Use it to swing across large gaps, making navigation more efficient and stealthier.

Kunai

Kunai are essential for silent takedowns. These sharp throwing knives can instantly eliminate common enemies, but upgrades are necessary to deal with armored foes. They are a must-have for those who prioritize stealth and precision in their attacks.

Smoke Bomb

The Smoke Bomb is a versatile tool that can be used both defensively and offensively. Deploy it to break enemy sightlines and escape detection, or use it in combat to confuse enemies, setting up perfect conditions for assassinations or quick strikes.

Shuriken

The Shuriken, a classic ninja weapon, is invaluable in stealth missions. While not as damaging as the Kunai, it can stagger enemies and trigger environmental interactions like sabotaging alarms or setting off explosives. Upgrades can make them bounce between targets, increasing their effectiveness.

Shinobi Bell

For those who prefer non-lethal strategies, the Shinobi Bell is perfect for diversion. When thrown, it attracts enemies, clearing your path or setting up better crowd control. Upgrades enhance its range and visual appeal, making it even more effective at drawing attention.

How To Upgrade Tools in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Upgrading tools in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* involves using Mastery Points through the Tools skill tree, except for the Grappling Hook. Here’s how to upgrade each tool:

Grappling Hook

The Grappling Hook’s only upgrade is found in the Shinobi Tree. For 2 Mastery Points at Knowledge Rank 2, unlock the Ascension Boost passive to significantly speed up Naoe’s climbing, reducing the chance of detection during ascents.

Kunai

Enhance the Kunai’s lethality with Kunai Assassination Damage upgrades, which increase the health segments removed per throw. Further improve its effectiveness with Armor Piercing for better penetration against armor, and Everlast to ensure retrieval without breakage.

Smoke Bomb

After unlocking the Smoke Bomb, upgrade its duration with Enduring Haze, adding 10 seconds to its effect. Widespread expands the area of effect, making it more challenging for enemies to see through the smoke.

Shuriken

Upgrade the Shuriken with Bank Shot to enable bouncing between targets, increasing damage with each hit. Triple Threat allows you to throw three Shurikens at once for the cost of one, enhancing your options in stealth and combat.

Shinobi Bell

Enhance the Shinobi Bell with Golden Bell to increase its visual appeal, making it more effective at distracting enemies. Louder Chimes extends its effective radius by five meters, allowing it to attract more enemies with a single throw.

Mastering the tools and their upgrades in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* can significantly enhance your gameplay experience. For more tips and guides, visit The Escapist.

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is now available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.