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Assassin’s Creed Shadows: Romance Options and Guide

by Madison Apr 08,2025

In the immersive world of *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* set in Feudal Japan, romance plays a significant role, allowing players to deepen their connections with certain characters based on their actions. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to engage in romance and who you can romance in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*.

How Does Romance Work in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?

Romance in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* follows a tradition seen in previous titles like *Odyssey* and *Valhalla*, but with a unique twist. Both protagonists, Naoe and Yasuke, have the opportunity to pursue romantic relationships. Players have the flexibility to choose whether these relationships will be fleeting or long-lasting, even with canon mode enabled.

How to Romance Another Character in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Yasuke has dialogue options to romance Lady Oichi. Screenshot by The Escapist

Engaging in romance in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is straightforward. The game features multiple quest chains where Naoe or Yasuke can build relationships with potential allies. Some characters will flirt or hint at deeper connections, and it's up to the player to decide whether to pursue these advances.

The game makes it clear when romance is on the table, often through unsubtle cues like Gennojo’s playful one-liners. When a dialogue option appears with a heart icon, choosing it will advance the romantic storyline. As the relationship progresses, the heart icon will transform, featuring a cupid’s arrow at crucial moments.

It’s important to note that choosing a romantic option once or twice won’t lock you into a relationship. Conversely, missing a key romantic dialogue choice can impact future opportunities. For instance, in my playthrough, an early decision to not flirt with Gennojo led to him rejecting Naoe later on. Therefore, it’s wise to keep your romantic options open, as you never know who might capture your heart later in the game.

Who Can You Romance in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?

Both Naoe and Yasuke have distinct romantic options in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*, tailored to each protagonist. The game offers both heterosexual and same-sex romance options, with some characters receiving more narrative focus than others. Here are the romantic options I’ve discovered: