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

Assassin's Creed Mirage boasts two compelling protagonists: the skilled Shinobi, Naoe, and the formidable Samurai, Yasuke. However, the transition between controlling them isn't immediately clear. This guide clarifies when and how you can switch between Naoe and Yasuke in Assassin's Creed Mirage.

While Assassin's Creed Mirage offers a vast open world, the early game is linear. The approximately 90-minute prologue alternates control between Naoe and Yasuke at set points. After completing the prologue, you'll remain locked as Naoe for several hours. Don't expect to immediately play as Yasuke—the early game focuses entirely on Naoe's story. Yasuke's introduction occurs much later, near the end of Act I, during the "Temple of the Horseman" quest. He then becomes temporarily playable in the "Fire and Lightning" quest. Only after completing this quest and Act I can you freely switch between characters.

How Long Until You Can Freely Switch Protagonists?

In a typical playthrough, reaching the end of Act I and unlocking free protagonist switching takes around 10 hours. This includes completing side content. However, focusing solely on the main story might allow you to reach this point in 6 to 8 hours.

Switching Between Yasuke and Naoe

Once Act I is complete, switching is straightforward. Fast traveling to a location offers two options: fast travel as your current character or fast travel as the other. Selecting the latter instantly switches characters at your chosen destination. This works at various points, including Synchronization points and Kakurega Hideouts. Certain story quests also offer a choice of protagonist.

When Protagonist Switching is Restricted

While Act I concludes the restriction on switching, specific story moments and major quests may lock you into a single character. Keep in mind that some quests and activities are character-specific. Naoe and Yasuke each have unique quests detailing their backstories before their meeting, and certain side activities are only accessible to one character, indicated by a Samurai helmet for Yasuke and a Shinobi hood for Naoe.

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