Nobutsuna Sensei is an intricate main quest within Assassin’s Creed Shadows, charting the transformative journey of Yasuke as he strives to become a respected samurai. Following his alliance with Naoe, Yasuke returns to his sensei’s location, only to find a letter in place of his mentor. This mission invites players to explore Yasuke’s past, reflecting on the trials and adversities that have shaped his character and resolve.
This article provides a comprehensive guide covering essential aspects of the Nobutsuna Sensei quest, including initiation steps, mission objectives, potential rewards, and key insights. While this quest is extensive, it serves as a pivotal chapter in the overarching narrative, revealing Yasuke’s determination to rise above his circumstances as a man grappling with displacement amidst conflict.
Disclaimer: The content herein may contain significant story spoilers for Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
Experience Yasuke’s Rise in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Upon reading the letter from his previous main quest, Yasuke reflects on his formative years spent training under Nobutsuna Sensei. Sent to learn the samurai way, he encounters a retainer who guides him to the training grounds, where the sensei agrees to train him—revealing Yasuke’s original name, Diogo. During this encounter, Diogo claims to have served as a bodyguard for the Portuguese Jesuits, concluding the discussion with several dialogue options:
- I have fought my share of battles.
- I have much to learn.
To formally commence his training, Diogo must first prove himself by defeating Marume Nagayoshi in a sparring match.
Following a successful spar with Nagayoshi, players will be escorted to their new quarters. Here, a brief encounter unfolds as rival students bully an elderly servant, prompting Diogo to intervene.
Despite his efforts, Diogo will ultimately be overpowered and left alone. As players enter their room, a cutscene transitions to the following morning, where Diogo meets Lady Oichi, a prospective love interest.
During this conversation, Lady Oichi inquires about Diogo’s well-being, and players can choose from the following responses:
- I am content being alone.
- Some company might be nice.
- I try not to think about it.
Opting for the second response fosters a warmer connection, while the other choices may come across as dismissive. After this interaction, an engaging training montage showcases Diogo’s efforts to master the samurai’s way.
Upon completion of his training, players notice a suspicious figure observing from a distance. This leads to a new subplot involving intrigue and potential danger.
Investigating the Suspicious Character
The figure turns out to be a Portuguese Jesuit, drawn to Diogo’s presence out of mere curiosity. Before long, Nagayoshi knocks on Diogo’s door, announcing that he is summoned to the training grounds. Instead of seeing his sensei, he comes face to face with Lady Nene, who presents him with a katana for an upcoming challenge.
Returning to his room, Nobutsuna Sensei engages Diogo about his anxieties. Players can respond with either a denial or admit their fear of facing Lord Nobunaga, leading to a series of timed strikes and movement exercises.
After completing these exercises, Diogo challenges the students of Masatoyo to a duel to reclaim his master’s blade. The challenge is sanctioned by Lord Nobunaga, who approves the contest. Diogo faces three rivals, elevating the stakes of the duel.
The Final Duel
Determined to establish his prowess, Diogo insists on utilizing real katanas instead of practice weapons, setting the stage for a decisive contest. While the rival students may seem manageable individually, teamwork can pose a significant challenge, so isolating adversaries is key to success.
Upon securing victory, Diogo returns his master’s blade to Lord Nobunaga, who offers him the opportunity to become a samurai. The narrative culminates in the following morning, where Nobutsuna Sensei awaits Diogo at the training grounds, wishing him well as he adopts the name Yasuke. This signifies the conclusion of the Nobutsuna Sensei quest, rewarding players with 1000 XP for their efforts.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is currently available for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.