"Assassin‘s Creed Shadows" adds weapon transmog feature

Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces a transmog system that lets players maintain their favorite weapon aesthetics while optimizing performance stats. Learn how this feature enhances progression and deepens customization in feudal Japan.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows Delivers In-Depth Progression System

Weapon Transmog and Visual Customization

Assassin’s Creed Shadows (AC Shadows) reveals detailed progression mechanics including weapon transmog - allowing players to combine preferred visuals with optimal stats. On March 1, 2025, the official website published comprehensive details about player progression and customization. Associate Game Director Julien outlined the development team's vision for this flexible system.

The transmog system enables players to modify weapon appearances while preserving their statistical benefits. Players who appreciate specific stats but dislike a weapon's design can alter its visual components while maintaining performance. This feature becomes available after constructing a Forge in the Hideout, accessible directly through the inventory menu.

Julien explained, "The Forge serves as your inventory command center. Beyond transmog, you can upgrade or dismantle equipment - we'll share more Hideout details soon." The system even allows hybrid designs: "You could combine one weapon's blade with another's guard and a third's handle for completely unique creations."

Revamped Progression System

Following Creative Director Charles Benoit's combat showcase at IGN Fan Fest 2025, Ubisoft now details the progression system. Julien discussed balancing dual protagonists: "Feudal Japan's two distinct character archetypes required reinventing our progression philosophy while honoring martial arts mastery principles."

Specialized Mastery Tracks

AC Shadows features dedicated mastery trees for protagonists Naoe (shinobi) and Yasuke (samurai). Julien noted: "These trees allow players to specialize in specific weapons or playstyles while earning complementary bonuses."

Mastery trees contain abilities that introduce new combat techniques and damage enhancements. Some abilities require reaching specific Knowledge Ranks, earned through peaceful activities like temple explorations, shrine prayers, Naoe's Kuji-kiri Meditation, or Yasuke's Kata training.

Playstyle Customization Options

Players can craft distinctive combat styles through extensive customization. Equipment perks enable stat enhancements and combat condition modifications, encouraging varied approaches.

The developers demonstrated flexible character building - Naoe can adopt an acrobatic combat style emphasizing rapid engagement/disengagement, while Yasuke can develop stealth and archery specializations despite his samurai roots.

With these detailed reveals building anticipation, fans eagerly await the March 20, 2025 release on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Stay updated with our continuing coverage of Assassin's Creed Shadows.