The final segment of State of Play dedicated to the Tokyo Game Show 2024 announced the sequel to Ghost of Tsushima. This announcement reassured PlayStation players who have been anticipating a follow-up to this acclaimed samurai game since 2020, and Sucker Punch opted for a fresh start rather than continuity. The American studio chose an unconventional path by setting the story in 1603, over 300 years after the original events. As such, Jin Sakai is no longer alive, but he has left behind a successor. This time, it’s a woman named Atsu who will lead us to the base of Mount Yōtei, an imposing volcano located in Ezo, now known as Hokkaido, Japan.
On the PlayStation Blog, Sucker Punch explains their intention to retain the core elements of Ghost of Tsushima while also innovating. The solution was to allow players to experience life as a wandering ronin in feudal Japan, offering freedom to explore at their own pace within an expansive open world and emphasizing the beauty of this setting. To introduce novelty, they chose to set the game in a different period and location. Nate Fox and Jason Connell, the two creative directors of the game, decided to move beyond the era of the Japanese shogunate, with the story beginning 300 years after the original game’s Mongol invasion of Tsushima Island in the 1200s.
When we began working on a sequel, the first question we asked ourselves was what defines the essence of a Ghost of Tsushima game? It is about immersing the player in the romance and beauty of feudal Japan. The inspiration for the new game setting came from two research trips to northern Japan. The Sucker Punch team, primarily based in Washington State, visited over a dozen locations. However, it was the image of Mount Yotei reflected on Lake Toya that sparked profound admiration. I sat there for two hours simply contemplating the mountain. It was breathtaking.
Developers have indicated that “Ghost of Yotei” will be a story centered around revenge, with Atsu being resolute and prepared to traverse the entire country to fulfill her mission. The trailer exudes an atmosphere that blends elements of chanbara and western genres, making it particularly enticing. It is clear that the game settings will vary widely, showcasing detailed environments ranging from lush meadows to snowy tundra. Sucker Punch has noted that this time players will have more control over the narrative compared to the original “Ghost of Tsushima,” suggesting that player choices will influence the story’s outcome.
In terms of gameplay, Ghost of Yotei will introduce a more balanced approach between katanas and firearms, which is logical given the time period and aims to diversify the gameplay experience. This could mirror what was offered in Rise of the Ronin, where sword combos were seamlessly integrated with the use of pistols and rifles of that era. Given the prominence of the wolf featured in the video, there is a strong likelihood that it will serve as an accompanying animal for Atsu during her adventure and can be utilized within gameplay mechanics. Additionally, Ghost of Yotei is confirmed to be Sucker Punch’s first title designed exclusively for the PlayStation 5, promising even more visually stunning and immersive environments compared to the original Ghost of Tsushima from four years ago. The game boasts an expanded draw distance, enhanced sky visuals including twinkling stars and northern lights, more realistic wind effects on grass and vegetation, along with other improvements yet to be revealed. These new environments will facilitate the introduction of innovative gameplay mechanics, enhancements, and even new weapons.
The release of Ghost of Yotei is scheduled for mid-2025, a period when interest in feudal Japan appears to be at an all-time high. This enthusiasm is evident from the success of the Emmy Award-winning series Shogun and the anticipated release of Assassin’s Creed Shadows. Regarding Ubisoft’s upcoming game, it has been announced that its presentation at the Tokyo Game Show 2024 will not take place, with press previews also being postponed. There is a noticeable unease within Ubisoft following recent poor sales for Star Wars Outlaws. It remains to be seen whether Assassin’s Creed Shadows will launch before Ghost of Yotei, given the intense competition in this market segment.
