*Assassin's Creed Shadows* stands out as one of the most expansive entries in the franchise, featuring a robust progression system that enhances its vast scale. Here's a detailed look at the maximum levels in *Assassin's Creed Shadows* and how the level cap functions.
What Is the Max XP Level in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* introduces a revamped progression system, blending traditional XP-based advancement with a novel Knowledge Rank system. XP progression in the game allows players to unlock higher-tier weapons, armor, and gear, and boosts the base stats of protagonists Naoe and Yasuke.
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, Ubisoft indicated a level cap of 40, but players can actually advance all the way to Level 60. There's a strong possibility that this cap will be raised further with the upcoming *Claws of Awaji* expansion for *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*.
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 marks a significant evolution in the franchise's progression mechanics, operating independently from the XP leveling system. Players earn Knowledge Points through various open-world activities focused on mindfulness and training. These points allow Naoe and Yasuke to unlock new skills, although players must also spend Mastery Points to activate them.
To access all available skills, players must achieve Knowledge Rank 6. However, reaching this rank is not the end of the journey. Beyond Rank 6, players unlock a new Knowledge tree with additional passive skills, enabling them to tailor their playstyle further.
Is There a Cap for Mastery in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?
Mastery represents the third pillar of progression in *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*, functioning as the game's skill point system. Mastery Points are essential for unlocking skills across the six Mastery trees available for each protagonist, Naoe and Yasuke. Some skills demand more Mastery Points than others to unlock.
With a plethora of activities to engage in, players have ample opportunities to accumulate Mastery Points. Although there is a theoretical limit to how many Mastery Points can be earned, reaching this cap would require extensive gameplay. The *Claws of Awaji* expansion, set to release in 2025, is expected to introduce new ways to earn Mastery Points.
Does Assassin’s Creed Shadows Have Level Scaling?
In *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*, each Japanese province is assigned a specific level. At the game's outset, the province of Kii requires players to be at Level 35. As players advance and increase their XP level, the level of certain regions adjusts to match their progress.
However, there is a cap to this scaling mechanism. From Level 42 onwards, the recommended level for each province remains two levels below the player's current XP level. This ensures that the game remains challenging and maintains a balanced combat pace in the endgame, rewarding players for their dedication and time investment.
*Assassin’s Creed Shadows is available now on PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.*
