Sucker Punch has unveiled exciting new details for the upcoming Ghost of Yotei, scheduled for release on October 2, 2025, for PS5 and PS5 Pro. During a recent State of Play presentation, creative directors Nate Fox and Jason Connell showcased the game’s enhanced gameplay mechanics, including exploration, combat, and two new gameplay modes inspired by famous Japanese directors.
Players will also be treated to limited edition PS5 consoles and controllers releasing alongside the game.
One of the most notable features returning from Ghost of Tsushima is Kurosawa Mode, designed to immerse players in the black-and-white, cinematic world of classic samurai films. But Ghost of Yotei takes things a step further with two additional modes inspired by renowned filmmakers Shinichirō Watanabe and Takashi Miike. Watanabe’s mode adds a lo-fi soundtrack while exploring the world, while Miike’s mode intensifies the visual experience with closer camera angles and increased blood and mud splatter.
Another important improvement in Ghost of Yotei is the Japanese voice acting, which will now be properly synced with character lip movements-something that was lacking in Ghost of Tsushima. This change will allow players to fully appreciate the game’s rich narrative in its original language without the immersion-breaking issue of mismatched lip-syncing.
In terms of combat, players will experience a fresh take with the protagonist, Atsu, who offers an expanded arsenal of weapons. Gone are the stance-switching mechanics from Ghost of Tsushima. Instead, players can seamlessly switch between various weapons on the fly, including a katana, dual katanas, a massive odachi, a spear, and a curved kurisagama. Additionally, Atsu has a range of projectiles like kunai, a bow and arrow, and a rifle to tackle different enemy types. For instance, large enemies can be taken down with the odachi, while dual swords are ideal for spear-wielding foes.
Atsu is a mercenary on a mission for revenge against the Yotei Six, a group responsible for the brutal death of her family. Unlike Jin from Ghost of Tsushima, Atsu is not bound by the samurai code and will use any means necessary to gain the upper hand, including disarming her enemies. However, players will need to be cautious, as Atsu herself can also be disarmed, introducing an additional layer of challenge to the combat system.
Exploration in Ghost of Yotei offers a more relaxed and immersive experience compared to its predecessor. Instead of rushing players through the story, the game encourages exploration and allows you to discover clues and quests through a card system. You can also take breaks to camp in the wilderness, where you’ll meet NPCs who may offer quests, weapon upgrades, or unique abilities. One of the companions you’ll meet is a wolf, who aids Atsu in combat, but it remains unclear if other NPCs can join the fight.
In addition to the main story, players can engage in side activities like bounty hunting, where Atsu can earn cash as her legend grows. As her notoriety increases, so does the bounty on her head. Though the presentation showcased some interesting story elements, such as the ability to switch between past and present when returning to Atsu’s home, the full extent of the game’s narrative features remains to be seen.
Overall, Ghost of Yotei promises to be a visually stunning and cinematic experience, staying true to the core elements of Ghost of Tsushima while offering fresh innovations. With the game’s October release fast approaching, fans of the original are eagerly awaiting to see if it can live up to expectations.