Yasuke is one of two playable characters in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. But unlike the other protagonist, Naoe — the stealthy shinobi who bears the iconic hidden blade — Yasuke is conspicuously absent during the first part of the game.

With the best armor in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Yasuke and Naoe become nearly invincible. As you explore feudal Japan, you’ll find many fabulous body armors, helmets, robes, and headbands, but some are worth wearing more than others — and we’re not just talking about looks.

Once I finally got to try out the ways of the samurai, I stumbled upon a Kofun that was tailor-made for Yasuke. Figuring out how to reach treasure within it was not only satisfying on its own, but since clearing one early on as Naoe, the ancient tomb actually turned out to be perfect training ground to get used to playing as Yasuke.

Naoe and Yasuke have a lot of skills to unlock in Assassin's Creed Shadows and these are the best ones to get first

A look at romance in Assassin's Creed Shadows, including how to romance all of the romance options for Naoe and Yasuke.

Once you take control of Yasuke for the main game, you’ll find a whole new arsenal of abilities to destroy your foes with

Despite being one of the main protagonists, it does take a bit for Yasuke to be playable in Assassin's Creed Shadows.

Having the ability to not only block, but Parry red attacks as Yasuke is a game-changer for combat. This makes the Protector's Armor the best early-game armor for Yasuke. There is really no need to find another Legendary Chest Armor piece until much later in the game.

From Dragon's Edge to Turquoise Zephyr - these are the best legendary weapons for Naoe and Yasuke in Assassin's Creed Shadows.