Ubisoft sheds light on Shadows’ combat, and the similarities and differences players can expect across the two protagonists’ play styles.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows will see players stepping into the shoes of two different protagonists, both of whom will specialize in different things, with samurai Yasuke being focused on combat and brute strength, and shinobi Naoe being more focused on stealth and agile movement. After having previously revealed extensive details on the stealth side of Shadows’ gameplay experience, not Ubisoft has shed some light on its combat as well.

Specifically, new information has been shared on how both protagonists will function in combat, and the key changes you can expect across their play styles. As far as the basics are concerned, of course, you can expect several similarities. Both characters will make use of light and heavy attacks, as well as a new mechanic called Posture Attacks, which are essentially charged versions of either light or heavy attacks. Unlike Naoe, Yasuke can also charge his Posture Attacks with his weapon still in the sheath.

Both characters can also dodge, but perform their dodges in different ways. While Yasuke performs dodge-steps, Naoe, who is much more nimble, performs rolls. Owing to Yasuke’s bulk, he also has to deal with brief recovery windows with every second consecutive dodge-step. That said, given the fact that he’s clad in way more protective armour than Naoe, Yasuke can also survive fights longer, even against larger groups of foes. As Naoe, however, combat is usually not the best option.

Yasuke can also parry incoming attacks, which causes foes to step back and briefly become open to counterattacks, while Naoe, on the other hand, can deflect incoming blows, which sees her sidestepping enemies and exposing their flanks, but also becoming potentially vulnerable to other foes herself. Yasuke can also block attacks to absorb damage from incoming blows, which is something Naoe cannot do. Meanwhile, both characters can cause enemies to enter vulnerable states for brief windows through actions such as perfect dodges.

Additionally, Ubisoft has also revealed details on acquirable skills for both Yasuke and Naoe, as well as the different enemy types players will encounter in the game, and the varied tactics that they will employ in combat.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows is due out on February 14 for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.