Understanding Contracts in Assassin’s Creed: Shadows Explained

Understanding Contracts in Assassin’s Creed: Shadows Explained

Among the various side activities in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, completing contracts stands out as one of the most lucrative ways to boost your finances. These optional missions not only help you fill your coffers but also enhance your resource collection. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get started with contracts in the game.

How to Unlock Contracts in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Selecting a contract from the file box
Screenshot by Moyens I/O

To begin your journey with contracts in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, you must advance the main storyline until you return to Tomiko’s homestead after completing the prologue. Your first task will be to construct the Kakurega building, a crucial step for unlocking Hideout customization. Once established, head inside and interact with the small filing box located on the ground to select your initial three contract options.

The Sakai Kakurega map marker
Screenshot by Moyens I/O

Upon completing the initial Kakurega, you can unlock additional ones in larger towns and cities, each costing 800 Mon (approximately $6.50 / €6). These buildings serve as permanent upgrades, each featuring its own contract file box and offering fast travel options. Hence, if your resources permit, unlocking multiple Kakurega buildings is highly advisable.

How to Complete Contracts in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

The quest complete screen after completing a contract
Screenshot by Moyens I/O

Completing contracts in Assassin’s Creed Shadows is generally straightforward, with a maximum of three active contracts allowed per region. The objectives for these contracts can vary, including:

  • Stealing loot from encampments, which yields EXP and Hideout materials.
  • Eliminating specific enemies, rewarding you with EXP and Mon.
  • Destruction of a target, granting EXP and crafting materials for gear.

Once you accept a contract, its quest marker will be displayed on your map, allowing you to track it like any other mission. However, note that you access the contracts through the file box and not through the Objectives menu.

A loot supplies contract map marker
Screenshot by Moyens I/O

Contracts will frequently lead you to unmarked locations or small areas that are too minor to show up on the map. Typically, these involve minor enemy encampments consisting of standard soldiers and a more formidable leader. The difficulty of enemies escalates as you progress further in the game.

Naoe ready to assassinate a leader enemy
Screenshot by Moyens I/O

You are not required to eliminate all enemies to successfully complete a contract unless explicitly instructed. For instance, in supply gathering and target destruction missions, you can swiftly grab what you need and leave. You won’t incur any penalties for breaking stealth or receiving damage. Achieving the Mission Complete notification is as simple as looting the required container or interacting sufficiently with the target.

It’s advisable to keep a full roster of active contracts, even if they aren’t your primary focus. You might come across one while exploring, and most contracts only take a few minutes to finish. Plus, getting sidetracked enriches the open-world experience, making it all the more enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions about Contracts in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

What Are Contracts in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?

Contracts are optional missions in Assassin’s Creed Shadows that allow players to earn rewards by completing various objectives, such as stealing items or defeating enemies.

How Many Contracts Can I Have Active at Once?

You can have up to three active contracts in each region at any given time.

How Do I Track Contracts in the Game?

Contracts can be tracked via their quest markers on the map, which appear once you accept them. You can access the contracts menu through the file box, but not through the Objectives menu.

Can I Complete Contracts Stealthily?

While you can complete contracts stealthily, it’s not mandatory to eliminate all enemies. Most missions can be completed by simply achieving the main objective without clearing the area.

Where Do Contract Missions Typically Take Place?

Contract missions often lead you to unmarked locations or smaller enemy encampments, which may contain basic soldiers and tougher leaders.