How to get more Knowledge Points in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

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In Assassin’s Creed Shadows, you have to accumulate Knowledge Points, which are then used to unlock new skills. They help you progress by opening up new abilities for Naoe and Yasuke. There are plenty of opportunities to earn them throughout the game, some of which are character-specific. This guide will explain how to get and use Knowledge Points in Assassin’s Creed Shadows.

What are Knowledge Points in Assassin’s Creed Shadows?

Knowledge Points are used to unlock new tiers in your Mastery skill trees. However, don’t confuse them with Mastery Points – these serve a different purpose. As you earn Knowledge Points, your Knowledge rank will increase. There are six Knowledge ranks, and each rank unlocks an additional row of skills across all 12 skill trees (six each for Yasuke and Naoe). Once these skills are unlocked, you can then use your Mastery Points to activate them.

How to get Knowledge Points to increase your Knowledge Rank

You can earn Knowledge Points by engaging in certain optional activities marked with orange icons on your map. These activities can be found in areas indicated by question marks. Keep in mind that not every question mark represents a knowledge point activity. Performing the following activities will reward you with Knowledge Points if you’re successful:

  • Kuji-Kiri
  • Shrines
  • Temples
  • Kofun
  • Kata
  • Hidden Trails
  • Horse Archery

Kuji-Kiri

Kuji-Kiri are quick-time events available only when playing as Naoe. The first four you complete will reveal parts of Naoe’s backstory, which you’ll get to play through. Be prepared for occasional screen flashes or disappearing button prompts, but with practice, you’ll get the hang of the mini-game’s pattern.

Shrines

Complete a Shrine is fairly simple compared to the other activities. You have to find and pray at three designated prayer spots within a general area. Each spot is marked with an icon on your map. Once you pray at all three locations, you’ll earn a Knowledge Point. 

Temples

Image of a Temple location on the map in Assassin's Creed Shadows.
Temples are an easy way to rack up Knowledge Points. Captured by VideoGamer

In Temples, you’ll need to track down three Lost Pages scattered around the area. These pages are often hidden in hard-to-reach spots – on rooftops, in trees, or even submerged in ponds. Try holding down the aim button to reveal white dots that point you toward the pages. To help you, we have covered the following Temple locations:

Kofun

Kofun are dungeon-like areas (for example, Makino Kurumazuka) that you’ll need to crawl through, often in the dark. These labyrinths lead to a chest containing legendary gear and an extra Knowledge Point. Depending on the Kofun, you might need to play as either Yasuke or Naoe to complete it.

Kata

Image of a Kata location on the map in Assassin's Creed Shadows.
Kata are reserved for Yasuke. Captured by VideoGamer

Kata is a quick-time event activity available only when playing as Yasuke. It’s similar to a rhythm game where you input the correct button prompts at the right time. Bear in mind that sometimes you’ll have to tap or have to hold long presses at other times. Complete three prompt sequences for each Kata to earn Knowledge Points.

Hidden Trails

Hidden Trails are platforming challenges that are best suited for Naoe, thanks to her grappling hook. Follow the yellow markers (often lanterns, flags, or painted stones) to find the correct way. These trails will sometimes lead you to some of the best gear in the game, so don’t miss them.

Horse Archery

Image of a Horse Archery location on the map in Assassin's Creed Shadows.
Horse Archery is a fun mini-game that focuses on shooting targets. Captured by VideoGamer

Horse Archery, available exclusively to Yasuke, has you shooting targets while riding on horseback. The horse moves automatically, so all you need to focus on is hitting the targets. Without having to worry about the horse’s movement, it’s a fun way to rack up Knowledge Points.

By taking advantage of all of these activities, you’ll steadily collect Knowledge Points and unlock more skills for your characters. You can read more about the game in our review of Assassin’s Creed Shadows.

About the Author

Miljan Truc

Miljan has been into gaming since the days of Sega Mega Drive and Amiga. During his gaming career, he has raided at a high level, coached other players, and written about games since 2016.

Assassin’s Creed Shadows

  • Platform(s): PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S/X
  • Genre(s): Action Adventure