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Ghost of Yōtei’s release date is quickly approaching, and fans are very aware that a lot is riding on the latest Sucker Punch Productions project. For starters, Ghost of Yōtei will be following up on one of the most popular, and quite frankly, exceptional video games of all time. Secondly, the title will be the first sign of whether there is more to this franchise, or whether the series was best placed as a vehicle to tell more stories about Jin Sakai. Regardless of its eventual performance, there’s still a lot of excitement around the game, with fans completing their pre-orders early and eagerly counting down the days. But in the meantime, this is a great opportunity to revisit Ghost of Tsushima, perhaps for the first time since its release, to get even more out of the game.
Because Ghost of Tsushima was so much more than just the main narrative. The open-world map was one of the most gorgeous in video game history, and it was hard for fans not to lose hours of vital gameplay time just exploring the stunning scenery. Side quests had genuine meaning, as Jin made connections with his allies and enemies. Those challenges and hidden objectives were a lot of fun to search out, improving the titular Ghost’s skills in the process and learning more about the lore of this land. Ghost of Tsushima is an incredible game for so many reasons, but fans have to go back and do some of these things before Ghost of Yōtei debuts. At the very least, they can be reminded of how magical this universe really is to inhabit.
Check Out the Director's Cut
The Iki Island Expansion Is Unmatched
If players first enjoyed Ghost of Tsushima when it was initially released in 2020, then they likely would have experienced that magic on last-gen consoles. However, those who were patient, or who had the financial assets to do so, may have waited for Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut to be released in 2021. Of course, PC players would have waited even longer for the Director’s Cut to launch in 2024 instead. Regardless, for those who have yet to enjoy the title in this format, this is the first step in this mission.
Because the Director’s Cut improves upon Ghost of Tsushima’s open-world and gameplay quality in every capacity. Firstly, it’s difficult to ignore the sheer quality of the visuals and smoothness of gameplay. While Ghost of Tsushima never had issues with bugs or lag, this is a massive game with intricate settings, minute details, and complex character models.
Ghost of Tsushima is thus improved upon when it’s helped on its way by an enhanced graphics system. The Director’s Cut also makes better use of the PlayStation 5’s DualSense Wireless controller, making it a truly current-gen experience. With Ghost of Yōtei heading to the PlayStation 5, it’s a good way to get a feel for the title on this generation of platform.
But the Director’s Cut wasn’t just a must-play because of its visuals or sheer power. Its Iki Island expansion was also a monumental addition to Jin Sakai’s narrative and provided a sneak peek at new mechanics that Sucker Punch Productions might be cooking up. Iki Island is, as to be expected, absolutely stunning, but the island is transformed once Jin is drugged by the enemy. Throughout the main quest on the island, Jin is forced to relive the sins and tragedies of his past, all the while facing down a seemingly mystical threat in the form of the mysterious Eagle.
Alongside these new foes comes new enemy types to combat, and a couple of additional mechanics. Unexpected quests and more opportunities to explore Ghost of Tsushima’s map are also introduced in the Iki Island expansion, and those who simply played the original game would never have gotten the chance to find out more about this part of the game’s lore.
What’s fascinating is that there are a couple of exclusive costumes to unlock too, which pay homage to Sony’s past gameplay outings like God of War and the Horizon series. With Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut acting as a slightly more modern interpretation of this title, this is perhaps the closest fans can currently get to Ghost of Yōtei.
Take Part In Side Missions As the Story Progresses
Jin Sakai's Alliances Are Strengthened
Not everyone is a completionist. So not every play would have attempted to complete all the side missions as they progressed through the narrative. Some much prefer simply focusing on the main quests first, and then perhaps revisiting many of those smaller stories once the game has been concluded. But, players really should go back into the title, play it from the start, and make sure that they enjoy those side quests as the title progresses.
Because players will soon realize how much it elevates the main narrative, Jin Sakai’s skills, and the relationships that he forges with his allies across this epic adventure. As Tsushima is plunged into chaos, the consequences of those conflicts can really be felt among the townspeople. Trying to help them, amidst the turmoil allows Jin to really build his status as a heroic Ghost, a legend among the people.
That makes things easier when the harder quests debut in the mainline narrative, but also adds to the believability of this lone warrior, trying to push back the invading forces while everything else goes to hell. Completing these smaller moments, after the main narrative is complete, doesn’t bring quite so epic a feel. It’s as if players know the stakes are slightly lessened.
These side quests also offer a better way for Jin to get to know his allies. Many of these characters will be open to having conversations at different stages of the game, but the way Jin collects this team, putting a bit of a supergroup together, feels as if it’s building to an epic conclusion. Kenji’s antics are sure to get him and Jin in trouble, as always, while Norio’s peaceful demeanor is in stark contrast to the rest of the group.
Yuna is perhaps the most inspirational and determined among the team, while a character like Masako Adachi has such a tragic backstory that it’s hard not to be influenced by that narrative as things begin to break down. Ghost of Tsushima’s main narrative is absolutely stunning, and one of the best in current gaming. But some of those smaller stories feature more intriguing interactions that speak to the complexity of humankind and the depth of Jin Sakai’s friendships.
For those who decided to ignore many of these side quests, it’s critical to go back to the game and experience them. It’s entirely plausible that some of these moments, at least thematically, play into Ghost of Yōtei. And for those who are only planning on playing Ghost of Yōtei when it releases, it cannot be doubted that this same gameplay style, of tapping into side missions as the main campaign progresses, will be key to getting the most from the game.
Don't Ignore Hidden Secrets
Shrines, Challenges & Exploration Provide Detailed Lore Insights
Much like side quests, it’s very easy to just continue on past the side challenges and hidden secrets, because they don’t appear to add much to the overall story. On some level, that may be true, as these additional elements serve as ways to improve upon Jin Sakai in some way or reveal a little more about the world around him. But, this is how the game becomes that much more immersive, and equips players with the tools to truly understand Jin Sakai and become the titular Ghost.
Each challenge, exploration point, or shrine, is accompanied by a little bit of storytelling. Take the game’s Haiku spots, for example. This is a moment for players to write some poetry themselves, connecting them further with the character, and getting an idea of Jin’s headspace during these trying times.
Visiting the Hot Springs might be great for Jin’s health and long-term resiliency in battle, but this also serves as a quiet moment of reflection, where players can choose what Jin actually begins to think about. And the shrines to the foxes, scattered across the map, are a key way to link back to nature and honor the local culture. Doing so might lead to a reward at the end, but it also serves as a beautiful reminder of what Jin is fighting for.
Even the combat challenges can provide an upgrade in Jin’s skills, and a sense of the competition in Tsushima. And the one-on-one additional duels that become available are a chance for Jin to cement his legacy, while players get an idea of what other fighters may be operating on the land. Each time one of these moments reveals itself, players are plunged a little deeper into Tsushima and its mythology. When Ghost of Yōtei is finally released, these challenges and mini-secrets are going to be crucial to understanding how this world has changed since players last stepped into it. And with new challenge types available, it’s also a great way to get a better grasp of Atsu’s skills.
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