Are you on the hunt for the infamous Genzaburo soldiers in Assassin’s Creed: Shadows? This mission certainly promises a formidable challenge, as it includes five primary targets, culminating in a face-off with Genzaburo himself. While you can initiate this quest relatively early in the game, be prepared to invest time in leveling up if you want to succeed against these foes.
As you navigate through the various side missions in Assassin’s Creed: Shadows, completing them becomes crucial for accumulating Mastery Points. These points are essential, as any surplus you accrue upon attaining the final Knowledge Rank can be invested to enhance your stats. By diligently engaging in these side quests, you can transform into a formidable Shinobi or samurai, ready to confront Genzaburo.
Quick Links
- Initiating The Fallen Soldiers Side Quest
- Locating The Scout
- Finding The Swordsman
- Discovering The Teppo Expert
- Identifying The Poisoner
- Tracking Down Genzaburo
Initiating The Fallen Soldiers Side Quest
Accessing the Quest
Your journey into the Fallen Soldiers quest begins after you vanquish the Ox during the main campaign of Assassin’s Creed: Shadows. You’ll first encounter Koshiro while attempting to complete this quest. Koshiro is part of the deserters that Naoe and Yasuke aim to rescue. However, after concluding the Ox quest, Koshiro finds himself in danger from the Genzaburo soldiers. Speaking to him will clarify the situation.
Koshiro will be stationed at Kyokaiji Temple, the place where you previously regrouped during the Ox mission. Converse with him to unlock both the People of Harima quest board and the new Genzaburo Soldiers board. Note that, unlike missions involving Yokai, this quest requires you to tackle each target sequentially, starting with the first soldier.
The quest is best suited for characters at Level 41 or higher. Since the Ox fight only requires a Level 26 character, it is unlikely you’ll meet that recommendation right away. Although you can pursue all assassinations sooner than intended, it’s advisable to enable the Guaranteed Assassinations feature and utilize Naoe. Alternatively, if you’re comfortable with combat, you might attempt facing them head-on, but be advised this approach can result in arduous skirmishes.
While it’s unclear if you can hunt for subsequent soldiers out of turn, each target grows progressively tougher. Remember that talking to Koshiro is essential before making a move on Genzaburo, and skipping this conversation is not advisable.
Locating The Scout
Level Requirement: 43
Eliminating The Scout should be relatively uncomplicated if you opt for a stealthy approach. You’ll find him in the Silver Lands, where he plays an instrument similar to Naoe’s. With plenty of cover provided by bushes and tall grass, you can quietly maneuver to him regardless of the hour. Upon executing the assassination, a hint will direct you toward the next soldier.
Rewards include:
- 2000 XP
- 2 Mastery Points
- Vigilant Grasp (Epic Bow)
Finding The Swordsman
Level Requirement: 43
The Swordsman awaits near Mount Kasagata in Harima, positioned close to the map’s edge. He stands on a bridge, facing your probable direction of approach. For a stealthy takedown, visit at night, use the surrounding bushes to bypass the bridge, and traverse the river below.
To trigger the assassination prompt, approach him from behind. If the attempt fails and combat ensues, be prepared, as he is a skilled fighter. It’s often helpful to save your progress before engaging the Genzaburo soldiers, allowing for a retry at the stealth option if necessary.
Rewards for defeating The Swordsman include:
- 2000 XP
- 2 Mastery Points
- Inari’s Bounty (Epic Long Katana)
Discovering The Teppo Expert
Level Requirement: 45
Finding The Teppo Expert at the Kaya Shrine can be tricky. The initial clues lead to an area beneath the shrine where eavesdropping is necessary for gathering additional information. Once at the shrine, use keen observation to spot The Teppo Expert’s location.
Timing is also crucial here, as he is accompanied by three soldiers. From the shrine’s main area, navigate to the left for a stealthy entrance behind him. Should you not succeed in a stealth attack, be prepared for an intense fight, as his comrades will pursue you following the assassination.
After this confrontation, the rewards you receive include:
- 2000 XP
- 2 Mastery Points
- Wave of Wasps (Legendary Teppo)
Identifying The Poisoner
Level Requirement: 41
Assassinating The Poisoner requires some effort in terms of positioning. Initially, you’ll be led to two boys eager to sneak into her biwa performance, guiding you to an entry point into Nishinomaru Gardens. The subsequent actions are critical for success.
While the audience may not notice your intrusion, the Poisoner and a roaming guard certainly will. Thankfully, there is only one guard, who follows a predictable pattern, making it easier to avoid him. However, the Poisoner’s location in the center of the lake makes a direct approach risky.
Look for the largest tree near the Poisoner. This tree cannot be climbed directly, so find a way to reach its upper branches. Behind the tree, you will discover a climbing pole accessible for Naoe. From there, perform a parkour leap to the tree behind the Poisoner, positioning yourself for an aerial assassination.
Defeating The Poisoner rewards you with:
- 2000 XP
- 2 Mastery Points
- The Poisoner’s Message (Epic Bow)
Tracking Down Genzaburo
Level Requirement: 43
Engaging Genzaburo typically forces a transition into open combat. For those preferring stealth, consider circumventing the building after the fight commences to grapple onto the roof. Conceal yourself until he starts searching for you, then position near the roof’s edge for the assassination opportunity.
This tactic proved highly effective, leading to a brief cutscene with Koshiro and marking the completion of this challenging quest. Your final accolades include a generous award of 5000 XP and 1 Mastery Point, along with two Legendary Engravings for your weaponry in Assassin’s Creed: Shadows.