Learn how to find and recruit all six combat allies in Assassin’s Creed Shadows to gain powerful abilities for Naoe and Yasuke.

In the shadows of feudal Japan, even the most skilled shinobi and samurai occasionally need backup. Assassin’s Creed Shadows introduces a robust ally system that lets you summon powerful companions during combat, each bringing unique abilities that can mean the difference between victory and an untimely trip to the loading screen.

Friends with benefits, feudal Japan style. | Image Credit: Ubisoft

While Naoe and Yasuke are formidable on their own, recruiting these “specialized” fighters transforms difficult encounters into manageable skirmishes. But finding and convincing these potential allies to join your cause requires completing specific quests, and making the right choices along the way.

All allies in Assassin’s Creed Shadows and how to recruit them

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Beyond your permanent companions Tomiko and Junjiro (who help at the Hideout but can’t join combat), there are six recruitable allies in Assassin’s Creed Shadows who’ll fight alongside you when summoned.

Each ally brings unique combat abilities that can be upgraded through your Dojo, eventually unlocking powerful passive bonuses at Veteran rank. And yes, three of these six allies are romanceable characters in the game:

1. Yaya

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This Buddhist monk packs a punch that would make even the most hardened samurai think twice. Her Rikishi ability delivers devastating pushback attacks, perfect for creating breathing room in tight situations.

First encountered during “The Fatherless Monk” main quest.
During “Heads Will Roll,” choose “Killing isn’t justice” when prompted.
Complete “The Stray Dogs” side quest.
Choose to forgive the thief at the start.
Urge Yaya to forgive Tetsuo at the end.
Select the dialogue option to invite her to join you.

2. Ibuki

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This ronin brings deadly precision to your fights, but recruiting them requires a delicate touch and playing as Yasuke.

Found near Kashiwara Village in Iga.
Must be playing as Yasuke.
Complete “Ambush Interrupted” quest.
During dialogue, choose “I have changed” followed by “I would forgive him.”
Complete “Homecoming” quest.
Invite them to join your cause.

3. Oni-yuri

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The toxin master brings chemical warfare to your arsenal, making her especially useful against groups.

Located in Wakasa region near Sotomo Gate by Tsuruga Castle.
Complete “Sweet Lies” quest.
Don’t accuse her of poisoning people.
Complete follow-up “Sweet Revenge” quest.
Invite her to join your league.

4. Gennojo

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This charming thief provides invaluable stealth support with his anti-detection ability.

Becomes available after killing “The Fool” Shinbakufu target.
Find his quest in Yamashiro.
Complete “Honor Among Thieves” quest.
During “The Godless Harvest,” choose to soothe Gennojo when prompted.
Don’t select “Do nothing” during the timed choice (leads to his death).
Invite him to join your league.

5. Katsuhime

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This Koga-ryu ninja brings devastating ranged firepower to your arsenal.

Available after assassinating “The Naginata” Shinbakufu target.
Complete “Letter from Katsuhime” side quest.
During “The Diary of Lady Rokkaku,” reach Katsuhime quickly and defeat Isono Kazumasa.
Carry her to safety outside the castle.
Select “Yes, join us” when prompted.

6. Yagoro

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This aspiring assassin brings his own version of the hidden blade to your fights.

Found in northern Engyoji, Harima region.
Quest “A Blade in the Dark” unlocks after killing all Shinbakufu members.
Track him down and challenge him to a duel.
Kill the lead samurai in Jyujiin Courtyard.
Invite him to join before completing the quest.