In *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*, The Tournament is not just a great source of XP but also awards an achievement and is an absolute blast. Here's how to unlock and conquer The Tournament to secure the "Test Your Might" trophy.
How to Unlock and Find The Tournament in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
In *Assassin’s Creed Shadows*, Gyoji, a resident of Yamato, initiates The Tournament quest. After assassinating several members of The Shinbakufu, Gyoji will be found camping outside your hideout, eager to discuss the tournament. This secret fighting arena is located at the Ominesanji Temple in Southeastern Yamato. To the west of the area, there's a viewpoint called Ominesanji Overlook, which you can synchronize to establish a fast travel point. We highly recommend doing this for easy returns and character switching.
Upon arriving at Ominesanji Temple, engage with Gyoji again. He'll brief you on the need to complete four one-on-one duels before facing the ultimate champion. After this cutscene, ring the bell to initiate the first fight.
How to Complete The Tournament in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
The Tournament is a gauntlet of high-intensity, life-or-death fights. Fortunately, you can rest between bouts as long as needed; just ring the bell to start the next fight. Use this time to heal with rations and upgrade your weapons and armor.
To best each opponent, we suggest using a long katana as Yasuke, focusing on dodging and parrying to exploit their vulnerabilities. Utilize abilities like Power Dash and Payback when you have enough adrenaline. Knowing the weapons each fighter uses can also help you choose the right counter. Here are the fighters you'll face:
- Lady Masago - Naginata
- Lord Suguru - Katana
- Lord Hokuto - Kanabo
- Lady O-Sen - Two Poison Katanas and ranged items
- Lord Unkai - Naginata and can heal if you keep your distance
After defeating all opponents, speak with Gyoji atop the hill. He will thank you for his freedom and promise future tournaments. During this dialogue, the "Test Your Might" trophy should unlock.
Best Loadout and Skills for Tournaments in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
The Long Katana is the most effective weapon for The Tournament. Use the highest rarity you possess, and upgrade it fully at your hideout’s blacksmith. Engravings that boost Armor Damage or Armor Piercing are invaluable. Your choice of armor is crucial, as it not only increases your health but can also provide game-changing abilities through engravings.
Before entering The Tournament, secure the Samurai Daimyo Armor of Legend by defeating The Ox, a Shinbakufu. Also, obtain the Protector’s Armor from completing a Castle mission. The former enhances damage by 75% at the cost of limiting health to 25%, while the latter enables you to parry unblockable attacks. Combining these engravings can allow you to defeat tournament enemies in under a minute if you parry effectively.
For skills, invest Mastery points in the Long Katana and Samurai trees, maximizing Combat Expert to boost melee damage, and unlock Power Dash and Payback.
*Assassin’s Creed Shadows* is available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S from March 20th.
