In Assassin’s Creed Shadows, players are given a poignant moral choice in the “Spring and Fall” mission: whether to kill or spare Ukita Naoie. The decision, while appearing to have an impact, leads to the same narrative outcome. But the choice taken provides slight differences in dialogue and emotional impact, especially with regard to Naoie’s son, Hideie. Appreciation of the subtleties of each option enables players to customize their experience and further immerse themselves in the game’s exploration of honor, duty, and family ties.

Should You Kill or Spare Ukita Naoie in Spring and Fall

You can follow this quest on the Objectives Board. Go to the Shinbakufu section and choose the quest under The Noble, now identified as Ukita Naoie. Head west of Himeji Castle to encounter Kuroda Kanbei. While this is a hostile area, you will not have any enemies to fight your way through. Regardless of whether players kill or spare Ukita Naoie, the result is the same. However, sparing him unlocks additional dialogue and may offer some closure to his son—especially if players allow Naoie to read Hideie’s poem before the fight.

Should You Kill in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

If players decide to kill Ukita Naoie, he accepts his fate without resistance, and Naoe swiftly slits his throat. Afterward, player must deliver his final words to his son, Hideie, marking the end of the mission. Aside from some extra dialogue when choosing to spare him, the outcome remains the same, with no lasting consequences for the decision to end his life immediately.

Should You Spare in Assassin’s Creed Shadows

Even if players choose to spare Ukita Naoie, he still begs Naoe to kill him, believing his death will secure his son’s safety. Before she carries out his request, he asks her to deliver his final words to Hideie. If players let him read Hideie’s poem earlier, his message will be taken from it. Just like the other choice, this decision has no lasting consequences.