In *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*, players can dive into the action with dual protagonists, each offering unique ways to tackle challenges. For those eager to harness the full potential of Yasuke early in the game, selecting the right skills can make a significant difference. Here’s a detailed guide on the best skills to prioritize for Yasuke in the initial stages of *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*.

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

Long Katana

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• 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)

These skills allow Yasuke to defend himself effectively, counterattack with precision, and regain health during combat. This combination ensures that Yasuke remains healthy and formidable in battles throughout the early game.

Naginata

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• 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 skills enhance Yasuke’s ability to keep enemies at a distance while dealing significant damage and increasing critical hit chances. These are particularly effective in crowd control scenarios, with Impale providing a powerful tool for clearing paths and grouping enemies for concentrated attacks.

Kanabo

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• 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 skills boost Yasuke’s power and speed, enabling him to swiftly dispatch enemies. Crushing Shockwave is particularly useful in crowd situations, while Spine Breaker provides a strategic advantage by allowing time for healing and regrouping.

Teppo

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• Steady Hand – Teppo Passive (Knowledge Rank 1, 2 Mastery Points)
• Armor Damage – Global Passive (Knowledge Rank 1, 1/2/3 Mastery Points)
• Concentration – Teppo Passive (Knowledge Rank 2, 2 Mastery Points)
• Teppo Tempo – Teppo Passive (Knowledge Rank 2, 1 Mastery Point)
• Explosive Surprise – Teppo Ability (Knowledge Rank 3, 3 Mastery Points)
• Reload Speed – Teppo Passive (Knowledge Rank 3, 1/2/3 Mastery Points)

The Teppo skills are crucial for starting and finishing fights with high damage output. Enhancing reload speed and slowing down time during combat gives Yasuke a tactical edge, while Explosive Surprise and Teppo Tempo create opportunities for follow-up melee attacks.

Samurai

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• Brutal Assassination – Samurai Passive (Knowledge Rank 1, 2 Mastery Points)
• Regeneration – Global Passive (Knowledge Rank 1, 1/2/3 Mastery Points)
• Improved Brutal Assassination – Samurai Passive (Knowledge Rank 2, 2 Mastery Points)
• Assassination Damage I – Samurai Passive (Knowledge Rank 3, 3 Mastery Points)
• Impenetrable Defense – Samurai Ability (Knowledge Rank 3, 4 Mastery Points)

These skills not only enhance Yasuke's assassination capabilities but also provide health regeneration and defensive options. They are essential for taking down elite enemies and maintaining Yasuke’s health throughout the game.

Bow

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• Swift Hand – Bow Passive (Knowledge Rank 1, 1/2/3 Mastery Points)
• Marksman’s Shot – Bow Passive (Knowledge Rank 1, 1 Mastery Point)
• Larger Quiver I – Bow Passive (Knowledge Rank 2, 3 Mastery Points)
• Silent Arrows – Bow Passive (Knowledge Rank 2, 2 Mastery Points)
• Kyudo Master – Bow Passive (Knowledge Rank 3, 2 Mastery Points)
• Silent Arrows II – Bow Passive (Knowledge Rank 3, 3 Mastery Points)

These skills improve Yasuke’s ability to take down enemies from a distance, with faster reload and draw speeds, increased arrow capacity, and silent, effective shots. They are crucial for stealth and long-range engagements.

With these skills in your arsenal, Yasuke will be well-equipped to handle the early challenges of *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*. For more tips and strategies, be sure to explore additional resources at The Escapist.