Top Initial Skills for Yasuke in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* brings a fresh dynamic to the series with its dual protagonists, offering players multiple approaches to tackle missions and combat. For those who prefer playing as Yasuke and want to maximize his potential early on, choosing the right skills is crucial to dominate the battlefield. Whether you're slicing through enemies up close or picking them off from a distance, these recommended skills will help shape Yasuke into the powerhouse he's meant to be.

Best Skills to Get First for Yasuke in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Long Katana

Yasuke Best Skills Assassin's Creed Shadows – Long Katana
Image Source: Ubisoft via The Escapist

Sheathed Attack – Long Katana | Passive (Knowledge Rank 1, 2 Mastery Points)
Riposte – Long Katana | Passive (Knowledge Rank 1, 2 Mastery Points)
Energizing Defense – Long Katana | Passive (Knowledge Rank 2, 2 Mastery Points)
Payback – Long Katana | Ability (Knowledge Rank 3, 5 Mastery Points)

This set of skills allows Yasuke to stay aggressive while maintaining survivability. You’ll not only counter effectively but also regain health with each successful strike, ensuring you remain battle-ready even during prolonged engagements.

Naginata

Yasuke Best Skills Assassin's Creed Shadows – Naginata
Image Source: Ubisoft via The Escapist

Far Reach – Naginata | Passive (Knowledge Rank 1, 2 Mastery Points)
One Man Army – Global Passive | (Knowledge Rank 1, 1/2/3 Mastery Points)
Lethal Reach – Naginata | Passive (Knowledge Rank 3, 2 Mastery Points)
Impale – Naginata | Ability (Knowledge Rank 3, 5 Mastery Points)

The Naginata excels at crowd control. These skills enhance reach and damage output, especially when surrounded. Impale helps manage groups by pulling enemies together, making it easier to deal massive damage quickly.

Kanabo

Yasuke Best Skills Assassin's Creed Shadows – Kanabo
Image Source: Ubisoft via The Escapist

Forward Momentum – Kanabo | Passive (Knowledge Rank 1, 1 Mastery Point)
Spine Breaker – Kanabo | Ability (Knowledge Rank 1, 3 Mastery Points)
Power Surge – Kanabo | Passive (Knowledge Rank 2, 3 Mastery Points)
Crushing Shockwave – Kanabo | Ability (Knowledge Rank 3, 5 Mastery Points)

These abilities boost Yasuke’s power and mobility, turning him into a wrecking ball. Spine Breaker and Crushing Shockwave are particularly useful for stunning and clearing out clusters of enemies, giving you breathing room and tactical advantage.