Ghost of Yotei: Why Sucker Punch Moved On from Ghost of Tsushima

When Ghost of Tsushima launched, it quickly became one of PlayStation’s most beloved titles. Its beautiful portrayal of feudal Japan, immersive story, and gripping gameplay captured the hearts of players worldwide. Ever since the game’s release, both PlayStation and PC gamers have eagerly anticipated a sequel. After years of speculation, Sucker Punch Productions has unveiled a new title: Ghost of Yotei. However, fans were surprised to learn it isn’t a direct continuation of Jin Sakai’s story.

So, why did Sucker Punch choose Ghost of Yotei instead of Ghost of Tsushima 2? Let’s explore the creative decision behind this move and what we can expect from the upcoming sequel.

Why No Ghost of Tsushima 2? Sucker Punch’s New Vision

If you’ve been waiting to see Jin Sakai’s return in Ghost of Tsushima 2, you might be a little disappointed. Instead of revisiting the same character, Sucker Punch Productions has opted for a fresh perspective and a brand-new origin story with Ghost of Yotei. But there’s a reason for this creative pivot, and it’s more than just a desire to shake things up.

According to Andrew Goldfarb, Senior Communications Manager at Sucker Punch, the team wanted to innovate and create something “fresh but familiar.” In an official statement, Goldfarb noted:

“We also wanted to continue to innovate. To create something fresh but familiar, we looked beyond Jin Sakai’s story and the island of Tsushima and shifted our focus to the idea of the Ghost instead. At Sucker Punch, we love origin stories, and we wanted to explore what it could mean to have a new hero wearing a Ghost mask and uncovering a new legend.”

It’s clear that while Jin Sakai’s tale resonated deeply with players, the developers felt that his character arc had come full circle. The storyline reached a satisfying conclusion, especially with the addition of the Iki Island DLC, which tied up any loose ends. With nothing left to explore in Tsushima, Sucker Punch saw an opportunity to retain the essence of Ghost of Tsushima the idea of the “Ghost” while telling a completely new story.

A New Hero Emerges: Introducing Atsu

In Ghost of Yotei, players will step into the shoes of a new protagonist named Atsu. This shift to a different hero not only brings a fresh narrative but also opens the door to a new part of feudal Japan. Atsu’s story takes place 300 years after the events of Ghost of Tsushima, allowing for references to Jin Sakai while also building an entirely new legend.

Atsu, the new “Ghost,” is a female protagonist who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and vengeance. As the developers have mentioned, Atsu’s tale is one of underdog vengeance an origin story where players will have to master the art of combat to help Atsu rise to the title of the “Ghost.”

But Atsu isn’t just a simple rehash of Jin Sakai. She comes with her own unique traits, such as carrying a shamisen (a traditional Japanese musical instrument) and being accompanied by a pet wolf. These fresh elements suggest that Atsu’s journey will have a distinct tone and focus, setting her apart from Jin.

Setting the Stage: Feudal Japan, 300 Years Later

So, where does Ghost of Yotei take place? The setting of this new adventure plays a crucial role in understanding why Sucker Punch moved away from Tsushima. The game is set around Mount Yotei, located in the northern region of Feudal Japan, which is now known as Hokkaido. This region, referred to in historical times as Ezo, was outside Japan’s jurisdiction, making it a wild, untamed land compared to the organized samurai clans of Tsushima.

This shift in setting introduces players to a new world filled with sprawling grasslands, snowy tundras, and unexpected dangers. According to Sucker Punch:

“This area was outside the rule of Japan, and filled with sprawling grasslands, snowy tundras, and unexpected dangers. It’s a far cry from the organized samurai clans who lived in Tsushima, and it’s the setting for an original story we can’t wait to tell.”

The new location will undoubtedly offer players a fresh visual experience, as well as a new set of challenges. The shift to a region that’s largely unexplored in popular media could give Ghost of Yotei the opportunity to stand out from other games set in feudal Japan.

Atsu’s Journey: What We Know So Far

What can we expect from Atsu as a protagonist? While details are still emerging, we do know that her story revolves around a quest for vengeance. Atsu starts off as a less powerful character, likely relying on stealth and cunning as she begins her journey. But as the game progresses, players will be tasked with honing her combat skills to transform her into the next Ghost.

One of the key elements that sets Atsu apart from Jin Sakai is her relationship with her pet wolf. The wolf is expected to play a significant role in both the story and gameplay, acting as a companion and possibly a tool in combat. This dynamic adds a layer of depth to Atsu’s character, showcasing her connection to the natural world and hinting at a more primal approach to combat.

Additionally, Atsu is voiced by Erika Ishii, a well-known voice actor who’s previously worked on titles like Apex Legends. Ishii’s portrayal of Atsu is sure to bring the character to life, adding depth and emotion to her journey.

Ghost of Yotei’s Gameplay: What’s New?

Sucker Punch has already hinted that Ghost of Yotei will build upon the gameplay mechanics that made Ghost of Tsushima so engaging, while also introducing new elements to keep things fresh. One of the key challenges the developers faced was avoiding the repetitive nature of open-world games. To combat this, they’ve made efforts to create unique experiences throughout the game, ensuring that players won’t feel like they’re just going through the motions.

In terms of combat, Atsu’s abilities will likely evolve over time. While Jin Sakai was a seasoned warrior from the beginning, Atsu’s journey is one of growth. This means players can expect to start with more basic skills and gradually unlock new abilities as Atsu’s legend grows. The introduction of firearms into the combat system adds a new layer of strategy, as does the presence of Atsu’s pet wolf, who may assist in stealth attacks or serve as a distraction.

The game’s open-world structure will likely remain a core element, allowing players to explore the vast, untamed regions of Ezo at their own pace. As with Ghost of Tsushima, the world itself will be a character, with breath taking landscapes, hidden secrets, and unexpected dangers around every corner.

What About Jin Sakai? Will We See Him Again?

While Ghost of Yotei is focused on Atsu, fans of Jin Sakai can still hold out hope for references to the original Ghost. Since the game takes place 300 years after the events of Ghost of Tsushima, it’s possible that Jin’s legacy will play a role in the story. Perhaps Atsu will uncover artifacts from Jin’s time, or the legend of Jin Sakai will inspire her own journey.

However, don’t expect to see Jin in the flesh. His story has concluded, and Ghost of Yotei is focused on forging a new legend in the same world. This decision allows the developers to explore new themes and ideas while still honouring the legacy of the first game.

The Future of the Ghost Franchise

With the release of Ghost of Yotei on the horizon, it’s clear that Sucker Punch is committed to expanding the world of Ghost of Tsushima. By focusing on new characters, settings, and stories, the developers are ensuring that the franchise remains fresh and exciting for years to come.

While fans of Jin Sakai may be disappointed that his story is over, Ghost of Yotei promises to deliver the same level of emotional depth, stunning visuals, and intense gameplay that made the original game so beloved.

So, what are your thoughts on the upcoming Ghost of Yotei? Are you excited to step into the shoes of Atsu and explore a new part of feudal Japan? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and stay tuned for more updates as we learn more about this highly anticipated sequel.