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

Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces an innovative feature called transmogging, allowing players to retain the stats of their preferred weapons while customizing their appearance. Dive deeper into the game's progression system and the extensive customization options it offers.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows Provides A Deep Dive on Progression

Transmogging and Weapon Customization

Assassin’s Creed Shadows (AC Shadows) offers a comprehensive look at its progression system, featuring a standout transmogging feature. On March 1, 2025, AC Shadows released a detailed overview on its official website, explaining how players can customize their weapons and progress through the game. Associate Game Director Julien shared insights into the team’s vision, emphasizing the game's customizability.

The transmog feature in AC Shadows enables players to modify weapon stats while maintaining their preferred aesthetic. To unlock this feature, players must establish a Forge in their Hideout, accessible directly from the inventory menu. Julien noted, "The Forge is central to managing your inventory, allowing you to upgrade or dismantle weapons and gear. We'll delve deeper into the Hideout in an upcoming article." Players can also mix and match components from different weapons, such as combining a blade from one weapon with the guard of another and the handle of a third, creating a unique look tailored to their taste.

New Progression Loop

Creative Director Charles Benoit previously discussed the game's combat mechanics and progression at IGN Fan Fest 2025. The latest post from Ubisoft provides a more detailed exploration of the progression system and its underlying mechanics.

Julien discussed the challenges and opportunities of featuring two protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, in the game's feudal Japan setting. She stated, "Having two distinct characters with unique archetypes inspired us to rethink player progression, aiming to align closely with the principles of mastery and martial arts."

Mastery, Abilities, and Knowledge Ranks

AC Shadows introduces unique mastery trees for its protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, tailored to their respective archetypes of shinobi and samurai. Julien explained, "Our mastery trees are designed to let players specialize in a specific weapon, playstyle, or archetype, deepening their mastery over time. Investing points in these trees unlocks additional bonuses, enhancing your progress."

Abilities within the mastery trees offer new gameplay mechanics and increased damage potential against enemies. Access to certain abilities and points in the mastery tree is contingent on reaching specific levels in the Knowledge Rank, achievable through non-violent activities such as finding Lost Pages in temples, praying at shrines, performing Kuji-kiri Meditation for Naoe, or learning new Kata for Yasuke.

Customizing Your Playstyle

AC Shadows empowers players to craft their ultimate playstyle with a range of customization options. Perks allow players to "modify, enhance, or specialize a piece of equipment," offering stat improvements, influencing afflictions, or creating different gameplay conditions.

While Naoe and Yasuke start with defined archetypes, players have the flexibility to adapt their playstyles. The game's website showcased potential builds for each character, highlighting the depth of customization available. Naoe can adopt an exotic combat style, focusing on ground attacks for quick engagement and disengagement, whereas Yasuke can be tailored for stealth and ranged combat, enhancing his stealth and archery skills through specific perks and abilities.

With the anticipation building as Assassin’s Creed Shadows approaches its release, fans are eager to explore its rich world and innovative features.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set to launch on March 20, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Stay updated with the latest news on Assassin’s Creed Shadows by checking out our dedicated article below!