Assassin’s Creed Shadows offers players a vast open world filled with hidden secrets, unique encounters, and adorable companions. One of the most charming locations in the game is Okishima, also known as Cat Island, a serene haven overrun with friendly felines. If you're looking to add the Calico Kitten to your pet collection or simply want to explore this picturesque island, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from reaching Okishima to unlocking its secrets.
How to Reach Okishima (Cat Island) in Assassin’s Creed Shadows
Okishima is a small island located in Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan and a key landmark in the game. However, getting there requires some navigation. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
1. Unlock the Yamashiro and Omi Regions
Before you can visit Cat Island, you must first gain access to the Yamashiro Region, which becomes available as you progress through the main story. From there, travel northeast to Kyoto, then continue toward Lake Biwa in the Omi region.
2. Head to Otsu and Find a Boat
Once in the Omi region, locate the city of Otsu, a bustling port town on the shores of Lake Biwa. Here, you’ll find several boats docked near the water. While you could technically swim or fight your way through enemy-infested roads, stealing a boat is the safest and fastest method to reach Okishima.
3. Navigate to Okishima
After securing a boat, open your map and look for the large lake in the northeast. Okishima is a small island near the center of Lake Biwa. Set your waypoint and begin rowing.
Pro Tip: Faster Rowing
- You don’t need to continuously hold the Row Boost button—just tap it once and hold the directional key to maintain full speed.
- This ensures Naoe or Yasuke reach the island quickly without unnecessary delays.
4. Fast Travel Unlock (Optional but Recommended)
During Yasuke’s quest, The Wheel Turns, visiting Okishima becomes a mandatory objective. However, if you’re exploring early, unlocking the island’s fast travel point will save time for future visits.
Exploring Okishima: What to Do on Cat Island
Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by dozens of cats roaming freely. Butbeyond the adorable scenery, Okishima holds a few key secrets:
1. Unlock the Viewpoint
Like most major locations in Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Okishima has a Viewpoint that reveals the surrounding area. Climb to the highest point (usually a tall structure or rock formation) to synchronize.
2. Find the Animus Key
Near the Viewpoint, keep an eye out for an Animus Key, a collectible that provides additional lore and rewards. Don’t leave without grabbing it!
3. Enjoy the Scenery (Photo Mode Tips)
Okishima is one of the most visually stunning locations in the game, with changing seasons affecting its appearance. If you’re a fan of Assassin’s Creed Shadows’ Photo Mode, this is the perfect spot for breathtaking shots.
- On PC: Press F3 to enter Photo Mode.
- On Consoles: Click both thumbsticks simultaneously.
How to Get the Calico Kitten Pet
The main reason many players visit Okishima is to adopt the Calico Kitten, one of several pets available in the game. Here’s how to get it:
Explore the Island Thoroughly – The Calico Kitten can be found wandering near the central area of Okishima, often mingling with other cats.Interact with It – Approach the kitten and press the prompt to pet or pick it up.Check Your Pet Collection – Once adopted, the Calico Kitten will appear in your Hideout, where you can interact with it anytime.Why Collect Pets?
Pets in Assassin’s Creed Shadows add life to your Hideout, offering cute interactions and a sense ofcompanionship. Some pets may even provide minor gameplay benefits, suchas boosting morale or unlocking special dialogue.
Final Tips for Visiting Okishima
- Visit in All Seasons – The island’s appearance changes dramatically with each season, making it worth revisiting.
- Complete Side Activities – While on Okishima, look for side quests or hidden treasures that may not be marked immediately.
- Return for Yasuke’s Quest – If you’re not here for The Wheel Turns yet, bookmark the location for later.
Conclusion
Okishima (Cat Island) is more than just a quirky location—it’s a peacefulretreat filled with cats, secrets, and stunning views. Whether you’rehere for the Calico Kitten, the Animus Key, or simply to relax among feline friends, this guide ensures you won’t miss a thing.
Have you visited Okishima yet? Which season was your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Platform(s): PlayStation 5 PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Microsoft Windows, Mac OS
Genre(s): Action role-playing
Developer(s): Ubisoft, Ubisoft Montreal, Ubisoft Quebec ·
Release date: March 20, 2025
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