Shinobi Warfare is an engaging side quest in Assassin’s Creed Shadows that follows the events of the main quest Wake-Up Call. Set in Iga Province on October 6, 1579, players assume the role of Naoe. The quest begins as Naoe participates in a sword training session with her father, Nagato. Shortly after, she joins Auntie Matsu for a conversation when Nagato abruptly arrives with alarming news: Oda Nobukatsu, the son of the formidable Oda Nobunaga, is mobilizing troops to launch an attack on Iga.
Despite Nagato’s insistence that Naoe remain behind to protect Matsu, her determination pushes her to seek involvement in the battle. After some persuasion, Matsu consents, and the mission sets the stage for the events in Shinobi Warfare.
Walkthrough for Shinobi Warfare in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
The quest Shinobi Warfare commences with a significant Kuji-Kiri ritual, a practice central to recalling memories. To initiate this quest, players must head south of Katana Foothills to locate a small shrine (refer to the accompanying image for guidance). Interacting with this shrine allows you to meditate and start the ritual.
During the Kuji-Kiri ritual, you will need to execute a timed button sequence based on on-screen prompts that appear in a clockwise fashion: starting with ‘W’, then ‘E’, ‘S’, and ‘Q’. Each button must be pressed accurately when the white boundary aligns with the circular indicator. Note that while a single mispress won’t reset the entire sequence, timing is critical for success.
Upon successful completion of the sequence, players dive into Naoe’s past memories, marking the beginning of interactive gameplay.
Follow Matsu
As the memory unfolds, players are tasked to follow Matsu. Utilize the auto-follow feature by holding the corresponding button (PC: E). During this segment, a dialogue ensues between Naoe and Matsu as they make their way to a secluded shrine in the mountainous area.
Retrieve Matsu’s Gift
At this juncture, Momochi Sandayu enters the scene. After exchanging introductions, he expresses skepticism about Naoe’s combat skills, leading to a dialogue choice:
- I have been training.
- I can fight.
Regardless of the option chosen, Sandayu instructs Naoe to join the battle and travel to Nagano Pass, advising her to remain undetected until it is time to strike. After saying her farewells to Matsu, Naoe embarks on her mission.
Reach Nagano Pass
Follow the designated pathway to Nagano Pass. Be vigilant, as you will encounter an area populated with Oda forces once you cross the second bridge, necessitating stealth and caution.
Stealth Tips
To successfully evade detection:
- Utilize tall grass on the left: Crouch within this vegetation to remain concealed.
- Monitor your stealth status: A crossed-out eye icon below your compass indicates invisibility, while a white outline around Naoe signifies that she is hidden.
- Beware of patrolling enemies: If you remain in the grass, they will gradually move away.
Proceed cautiously until a cutscene plays, where an enemy discovers Naoe and attempts to choke her. In response, she swiftly draws her sword and dispatches her attacker.
Regroup with Igan Troops
Following the successful encounter, head to regroup with the Igan troops. This section may prove tricky due to the numerous heavily guarded areas.
- Stick to the left side of the area while moving through short grass by going prone.
- Once you reach the tall grass, crouch and proceed with caution.
- Wait for patrolling enemies to clear your path before advancing.
- Quickly cross a small bridge and continue along the marked route.
As you near another bridge, an Igan troop dispatches an enemy in your way, providing a safe passage forward. Stay close to the Igan troops while maintaining your stealth.
Upon reaching the targeted location, a cinematic cutscene reveals an expertly executed ambush, where the Igan shinobi launch a surprise attack against Oda Nobukatsu’s forces, utilizing smoke bombs and aerial maneuvers to gain the upper hand.
Before Naoe can fully process the scene, an enemy lunges at her, throwing her into the water, thereby initiating a critical one-on-one battle.
Defeat the Oda Clan Brute
In this challenging combat scenario, ensure you employ effective tactics to overcome the Oda Clan Brute:
- Avoid red-glowing attacks as they are unstoppable. Dodge them to survive.
- Capitalize on a perfectly timed dodge, which makes the enemy vulnerable (glowing yellow), providing an opportunity to strike.
- Deflect white-glowing attacks to initiate counterattacks.
- If your health is running low, be sure to use rations to recover.
Once you successfully defeat this enemy, a cutscene follows where Nagato rushes in, showing concern for Naoe’s well-being and expressing disapproval for her disobedience. However, Momochi Sandayu intervenes, supporting Naoe’s intent to defend Iga following his orders.
Despite their disagreement, Nagato and Sandayu both acknowledge Naoe’s courage. Ultimately, Nagato brings the mission to a close by declaring that the battle has concluded, signalling a return home.
And with that, the Shinobi Warfare mission in Assassin’s Creed Shadows draws to an end.
This comprehensive guide encapsulates everything you need to know to navigate the Shinobi Warfare side quest in Assassin’s Creed Shadows.