Ghost of Yotei: The Big Interview With Sucker Punch

Following Ghost of Yotei’s exhilarating State of Play showcase, we had the chance to chat with creative directors Nate Fox and Jason Connell to delve into what’s in store for Sucker Punch’s upcoming PlayStation 5 exclusive. Let’s take a look at the exciting new details they shared!

Setting and Historical Context

The story of Ghost of Yotei is set in 1603, at a time when Japan was emerging from a long period of civil war. The country had finally achieved peace, but with that came a rise in mercenaries looking for work. These sellswords travel to the northernmost reaches of the Japanese empire, to the island of Ezo (modern-day Hokkaido), where tensions run high as lawlessness sweeps the land. It is within this volatile environment that we follow Atsu’s journey of vengeance.

Freedom of Exploration

When asked about how Ghost of Yotei will offer even more freedom than its predecessor, Ghost of Tsushima, Jason Connell highlighted the expansive nature of Ezo. The vastness of the environment lends itself to exploration, and Sucker Punch wanted to amplify this aspect by adding tools like a spyglass for scouting the landscape and flower streams that offer both a speed boost and clues about hidden locations. These additions serve to enhance the open-world experience and provide players with more ways to interact with the world.

The Past and Present Merge

One of the standout features shown at the State of Play was the seamless transition between present-day Atsu and her past. With the press of a button, players can switch between the present and Atsu’s childhood memories, allowing them to see her home as it once was compared to its ruined state today. This feature aims to deepen the emotional connection between players and Atsu by offering a tangible view of what she has lost.

The Birth of Atsu’s Story

When it came to developing the new game, Sucker Punch knew from the start that they were venturing into new territory. They were keen on telling a fresh origin story, as seen in their previous works. With the setting of Hokkaido in the early 1600s, the team knew this was the perfect backdrop for Atsu’s tale of vengeance. The story was also influenced by Japanese folklore, particularly the legend of the onryō, vengeful spirits often wronged women seeking revenge.

Innovative Features

Among the exciting new gameplay mechanics is a camping system that lets players interact with their wolf pack in the wilds of Ezo. The campfire allows Atsu’s allies to join her at night, offering upgrades without having to fast-travel back to a base. This evolution of the camping feature is designed to make the game feel more immersive and help players stay connected with the world as they explore it.

Combat and Weapon Variety

Ghost of Yotei introduces a wide range of weapons beyond the katana, including a spear and a kusarigama, each offering unique combat options. The game now features five different melee weapons, each with its own set of abilities, providing players with a range of tactical choices. Whether knocking enemies off cliffs or performing area-of-effect attacks, the weapon system offers flexibility and depth.

The Shamisen and Exploration

Another cool feature revealed was Atsu’s shamisen, which isn’t just for show. Players can learn songs in the open world that will guide them to various discoveries, such as hidden cosmetics. This feature adds a layer of depth to the exploration, encouraging players to explore and collect songs as they uncover new secrets.

Looking Forward

With the game set for release on October 2, both Nate and Jason expressed excitement for players to experience the wild landscapes of Ezo and engage in Atsu’s quest for vengeance. Whether it’s the thrill of exploration or the emotional depth of the story, Ghost of Yotei promises to offer an unforgettable experience.