Assassin’s Creed Shadows stands out as one of the most expansive games in the franchise, featuring a robust progression system that matches its grand scale. Let's delve into the details of the max levels and how the level cap functions in this thrilling title.
What Is the Max XP Level in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces a refreshed progression mechanism, blending the traditional XP-based system with a new Knowledge Ranks system. As you accumulate XP, you unlock access to higher-tier weapons, armor, and gear, enhancing Naoe and Yasuke's base stats.
To fully explore all the Japanese provinces on the game's map, players need to reach Level 35. However, the XP grind doesn't stop there. Initially, it was believed that the level cap would be 40, based on Ubisoft's pre-launch insights. Yet, players can actually push their levels up to 60. It's anticipated that this cap might increase further with the upcoming Claws of Awaji expansion, set to release post-launch.
What Is the Max Knowledge Rank in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
Assassin’s Creed Shadows Mastery menu with low-level progress, Image via Ubisoft.
The Knowledge Rank system is a significant evolution in the franchise's progression model, distinct from the XP leveling. Players advance through Knowledge Ranks by earning Knowledge Points through diverse open-world activities, emphasizing mindfulness and training. As you progress, new skills become available for Naoe and Yasuke, though these must be unlocked using Mastery Points.
To unlock every skill, players must reach Knowledge Rank 6. But the journey doesn’t end there; upon reaching this rank, a new Knowledge tree unlocks, offering passive skills to tailor your build to your preferred playstyle.
Related: Assassin’s Creed Shadows Trophy List (All 55 Trophies)
Is There a Cap for Mastery in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
Mastery represents the third pillar of progression in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, akin to skill points, required to unlock skills within the six Mastery trees for each protagonist. Some skills demand more Mastery Points than others to unlock.
With numerous skills to master and a variety of activities to earn Mastery Points, reaching a cap is theoretically possible but requires extensive play. The Claws of Awaji expansion, slated for later in 2025, is expected to introduce new methods for earning Mastery Points.
Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Have Level Scaling?
In Assassin’s Creed Shadows, each Japanese province is assigned a specific level. Initially, the highest level requirement is for Kii, set at Level 35. As you advance and gain XP, some regions' levels will adjust to match yours.
From Level 42 onwards, there's a cap on how high the enemy and province difficulty can scale, remaining two levels below your current XP level. This mechanism ensures a balanced challenge and maintains combat pacing in the endgame, rewarding dedicated players.
Assassin’s Creed Shadows is available now on PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.
