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

Assassin's Creed Shadows introduces a captivating feature known as transmogging, allowing players to maintain their preferred weapon stats while customizing their appearance. This guide delves into the game's progression system and the extensive customization options available to players.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows Provides A Deep Dive on Progression

Transmogging and Weapon Customization

Assassin's Creed Shadows (AC Shadows) offers players a comprehensive look at its progression system, including the innovative ability to transmog weapons. This feature enhances both the aesthetic and functional aspects of gameplay. On March 1, 2025, AC Shadows detailed this system on their official website. Associate Game Director Julien shared insights into the game's design philosophy and customization capabilities.

The transmog feature allows players to alter the appearance of their weapons while retaining their original stats. This is particularly useful for players who find a weapon's stats appealing but not its design. To unlock this feature, players must establish a Forge in the Hideout, which can then be accessed directly from the inventory menu.

Julien emphasized, "The Forge is central to managing your inventory. It's where you can upgrade or dismantle weapons and gear. We'll provide more details in our upcoming article on the Hideout." Additionally, players can mix and match weapon components, such as combining the blade of one weapon with the guard of another and the handle of a third.

New Progression Loop

During IGN Fan Fest 2025, AC Shadows' Creative Director Charles Benoit discussed the game's combat mechanics and progression. A recent Ubisoft post provided a more in-depth exploration of these elements.

Julien discussed the challenges of incorporating two protagonists with distinct archetypes into the game's setting of feudal Japan. She stated, "Having two separate characters with unique archetypes pushed us to rethink our approach to player progression. Our goal was to stay true to the philosophy 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—shinobi and assassin for Naoe, and samurai for Yasuke.

Julien explained, "With the unique Mastery trees, we aim to give players the freedom to specialize in a specific weapon, playstyle, or archetype, deepening their mastery." She added, "Investing points in these trees unlocks additional bonuses, enhancing your progress."

Abilities within the Mastery trees offer new gameplay mechanics and increased damage potential. However, access to certain abilities and points in the Mastery tree is contingent upon reaching specific levels in the Knowledge Rank. This rank can be elevated through non-violent activities such as discovering Lost Pages in temples, praying at Shrines, practicing Kuji-kiri Meditation for Naoe, or learning new Kata for Yasuke.

Customizing Your Playstyle

AC Shadows enables players to craft their ultimate playstyle through various customization features. Perks allow for the modification, enhancement, or specialization of equipment, offering stat improvements, influencing afflictions, or creating new gameplay conditions.

Despite their initial archetypes, Naoe and Yasuke can be played differently based on player preference. The game's post showcased potential builds for each character, illustrating the depth of customization available. Naoe can adopt an exotic combat style, focusing on ground attacks and swift engagement and disengagement. Conversely, Yasuke can be tailored for stealth and ranged combat, with perks and abilities enhancing his stealth and archery skills.

With the recent updates and insights leading up to its release, fans are eagerly anticipating the launch of Assassin’s Creed Shadows. The game is scheduled to release 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 related articles.