Home News When Can You Switch Between Naoe and Yasuke in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?

When Can You Switch Between Naoe and Yasuke in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?

by Sophia Mar 21,2025

Assassin's Creed Mirage features two compelling protagonists: the Shinobi Naoe and the Samurai Yasuke. However, the ability to switch between them isn't immediately available. This guide clarifies when and how you gain control over both.

Naoe in Assassin's Creed Mirage, Image via Ubisoft

Naoe in Assassin's Creed Mirage, Image via Ubisoft

While Assassin's Creed Mirage boasts a vast open world, the early game is linear. The roughly 90-minute prologue alternates control between Naoe and Yasuke. After completing the prologue, you'll play exclusively as Naoe for several hours. Don't expect to wield your katana as Yasuke right away! You'll remain locked as Naoe until nearing the end of Act I, focusing entirely on her storyline. Yasuke's introduction occurs during the "Temple of the Horseman" quest, followed by a brief, exclusive period as Yasuke in the "Fire and Lightning" quest. Full protagonist switching unlocks after completing these quests and Act I.

How Long Until You Can Switch Protagonists in Assassin's Creed Mirage?

My playthrough took approximately 10 hours to reach the point where I could freely swap between Naoe and Yasuke, including significant side content. If you focus on the main storyline, you can likely achieve this in 6-8 hours.

Switching Between Yasuke and Naoe in Assassin's Creed Mirage

Some cutscenes allow players to choose between playing as Yasuke and Naoe in Assassin's Creed Mirage

Some cutscenes allow players to choose between playing as Yasuke and Naoe in Assassin's Creed Mirage

Once unlocked, switching is straightforward. Fast traveling provides two options: fast travel as your current character, or fast travel as the other. Selecting the latter instantly switches characters at your destination. This works at various locations, including synchronization points and Kakurega Hideouts. Additionally, some story quests offer a choice of protagonist.

When Can't You Switch Protagonists?

While Act I concludes with the ability to freely switch, certain story moments and major quests restrict protagonist selection. Note that some quests and activities are character-specific. Naoe and Yasuke each have unique quests detailing their backstories before their meeting. These are indicated by character-specific symbols: a Samurai helmet for Yasuke and a Shinobi hood for Naoe.

Assassin's Creed Mirage launches March 20th for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.