Assassin's Creed: Shadows' dual protagonist gameplay feels like an experiment for many, but it's not a new feature anymore since we have seen the same thing in "Syndicate." You can play as both Naoe and Yasuke in one quest, but you can also recruit other allies like Yaya along your journey.
Yaya is a powerful ally who will help you get through the quests. With the right strategy, you can maximize her potential, and here's how.
Starting the Yaya Recruitment Process
Yaya is among the very first allies available for recruitment in "Assassin's Creed: Shadows." To recruit her, simply continue with the Wada Koretake assassination quest. In this quest, you get to help some mercenaries at a temple by defeating the enemies there. This is where Yaya will be seen for the first time, according to The Gamer.
Later, during your mission to infiltrate Wada Koretake's stronghold, Yaya reappears. After eliminating your target, a cutscene triggers where Mitsumune tries to kill one of Koretake's soldiers. Yaya intervenes and expresses her disapproval.
At this moment, you'll be given a choice — choose "Killing them isn't justice." This decision initiates the quest to recruit Yaya.
Complete the Stray Dogs Quest to Recruit Yaya
Once you complete the correct choice, a new ally quest called Stray Dogs becomes visible in your objective list. Go to western Osaka, and the quest marker will guide you there. When you arrive, you will need to protect Yaya by killing several enemies who are attacking her.
After securing her safety, Yaya asks for your help in resolving a conflict involving a monk. During this conversation, another decision appears — select "We forgive him." This choice advances the recruitment process.
Retrieve Yaya's Kanzashi to Finalize Recruitment
In the second stage, you have to find Tetsuo and get Yaya's kanzashi from Takatsuki Church. The church is northeast of Amagasaki Castle, in the vicinity of the northern limit of Izumi Settsu. Observe mode will be used to mark the spot once you are nearby.
When you encounter Tetsuo, he will try to escape, but Yaya blocks his way. In this battle, select "You need to forgive each other." After making this choice, Yaya decides to support your cause.
Yaya's Ability and How to Use It
Once you recruit Yaya, her powers can be used. To use her power:
- Open the tools menu and find her portrait at the bottom right.
- Press the button assigned for her to join in combat while not on cooldown.
Yaya begins combat by performing a pushback attack and stunning enemies by putting them out of balance. She sometimes gets a glitch, though, making her miss in close situations. She remains in battle by your side until all hostile elements are vanquished and returns via the smoke cloud.
Training Yaya's Skills in the Dojo
To enhance Yaya's abilities, construct a Dojo in your hideout. Spend Mon to upgrade her skills:
- First Upgrade: Enables Yaya to knock down the first enemy she attacks, allowing for a ground attack.
- Second Upgrade: Enhances her ability by sending the primary target flying with a powerful kick.
To use multiple allies or unlock additional upgrades, you'll need to further enhance the Dojo.
Hiring Yaya in "Assassin's Creed: Shadows" brings a precious companion to your party, lightening up difficult fights and struggles. Use the correct dialogue options and finish her quest to earn her loyalty. Remember to level up her abilities to get the best out of her.
