Gold is the key to thriving in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Whether you need to upgrade weapons, buy rare gear, or bribe officials, having enough gold will make your journey through feudal Japan much smoother. But earning gold efficiently isn’t always straightforward. If you find yourself struggling to keep your coin pouch full, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. This guide will walk you through the best ways to farm gold, maximize profits, and spend wisely in Assassin’s Creed Shadows.
One of the most reliable ways to earn gold is by completing contracts and side missions. These optional tasks often involve assassinations, thefts, or escorting important figures, and they typically reward you handsomely. Some missions offer bonus rewards if you complete them stealthily or within a time limit, so make sure to read the objectives carefully.
Additionally, certain characters in the game may offer recurring contracts that pay well. Keep an eye out for job boards or NPCs who frequently need assistance, as these missions can be a steady source of income.
Like previous Assassin’s Creed games, Shadows will likely feature plenty of lootable items. Search every enemy camp, abandoned house, or hidden temple for valuables like jewelry, rare materials, and artifacts. These can be sold to merchants for a good amount of gold.
Enemy leaders and high-ranking officials tend to carry more valuable loot, so targeting them specifically can be a profitable strategy. Be sure to check their bodies after assassinations—some may carry gold directly, while others drop rare items that fetch a high price at vendors.
Since Assassin’s Creed Shadows is set in Japan’s Sengoku period, stealth will play a huge role in how you interact with the world. If you prefer a non-violent way to make money, pickpocketing is a great option. Towns and cities are full of wealthy citizens carrying gold, and with the right skills, you can swipe their coins without being noticed.
To improve your success rate, upgrade your pickpocketing ability and use distractions like firecrackers or NPC interactions to create the perfect opportunity. Be mindful of guards—if you get caught, you may have to bribe your way out of trouble, cutting into your profits.
The wilds of Assassin’s Creed Shadows are likely filled with animals that provide valuable resources. Hunting deer, boars, and other creatures will yield hides and meat, which can be sold for gold. Some traders may pay extra for rare animal pelts, so it’s worth checking merchant inventories to see who offers the best prices.
Additionally, fishing could be another profitable venture. Certain fish might be rarer than others, making them valuable for trading. Keep an eye out for special hunting and fishing spots where rare animals or fish are more likely to appear.
If the game includes a trading or merchant system, upgrading shops could be a great way to boost your income. Some Assassin’s Creed titles allow players to invest in businesses, which generate passive income over time. If Shadows includes a similar mechanic, upgrading blacksmiths, general stores, or even tea houses might provide you with a steady stream of gold without much effort.
As an assassin, sneaking into enemy camps and fortresses can be risky—but the rewards are often worth it. These locations are filled with gold, weapons, and rare items waiting to be looted. Some strongholds may also have treasure chests locked behind puzzles or mini-challenges, offering even bigger payouts for those who take the time to solve them.
To make raiding more efficient, target smaller enemy outposts first to build your skill and gather resources before attempting larger strongholds. Use stealth whenever possible to avoid alerting reinforcements, as larger battles can be costly in terms of resources and time.
If Shadows includes traditional Japanese gambling games, such as dice or card games, you might be able to make a fortune if you’re skilled (or lucky). Mini-games in previous Assassin’s Creed titles have sometimes provided fun ways to earn extra cash, and Shadows could follow suit with its own unique gambling mechanics.
Be cautious, though—gambling is a double-edged sword. While it can be a quick way to earn gold, it can also leave you broke if luck isn’t on your side. Set limits on how much you’re willing to risk to avoid unnecessary losses.
In Assassin’s Creed Shadowsbribes will likely play an important role in maintaining stealth and influence. However, excessive bribing can quickly drain your gold reserves. Instead of throwing money at every guard or official, choose your bribes carefully. Sometimes, it’s better to find an alternative solution, like eliminating a corrupt official instead of paying them off.
While earning gold is important, managing your expenses is just as crucial. Avoid wasting money on unnecessary upgrades or gear that doesn’t significantly improve your abilities. Invest in weapons and armor that truly enhance your playstyle, and be selective about which merchants you buy from—some may overcharge compared to others.
If the game includes a crafting system, consider making your own gear instead of purchasing expensive items. Crafting materials might be cheaper than outright buying weapons or armor, saving you gold in the long run.
