Game Description

Set 300 years after the critically acclaimed Ghost of Tsushima, Ghost of Yõtei is a standalone experience set in 1600s rural Japan. The story follows a haunted, lone mercenary named Atsu. Thirsty for revenge, she travels through the beautiful, rugged landscapes of northern Japan, hunting those who killed her family many years earlier.

Sixteen years after her familv’s death, Atsu’s quest across Ezo brings her to unexplored lands in search of a gang of six outlaws, but she finds much more than vengeance.

my personal favorite, Watanabe (drawing from the acclaimed anime director Shin’ichiro Watanabe), which also features original lo-fi music created under his guidance.

The Review Breakdown

Normally, I like to reach the endgame or hit max level before forming a real impression of a game. But after just 10 hours, I can already tell this is going to be something special—the wait was definitely worth it.

Ghost of Yotei begins with a powerful flashback, revealing the protagonist’s motivation: the tragic loss of her family, and her being impaled on a tree with her family’s katana. The opening scene looks impressive, and after a brief prologue—which I appreciate, as I dislike long, drawn-out intros—you get a solid preview of the combat. Then comes the opening credits sequence, one of the most stunning I’ve ever seen. The vibrant colours and breathtaking scenery are truly captivating. The game then kicks off with visuals that remain just as striking—simply amazing.

This is one of the first games of this generation that truly feels like a next-gen experience. As a huge fan of animation in all forms, there were moments when I forgot I was playing and felt like I was watching an anime. I admit, I might be a bit biased. I absolutely loved Ghost of Tsushima (Check out our review here) and considered it a must-play. Naturally, expectations were high for Ghost of Yotei.

The inclusion of visual modes adds a unique flair: Kurosawa (inspired by the legendary director Akira Kurosawa), which applies a classic black-and-white filter; Miike (inspired by the intense style of Takashi Miike), adding a gritty layer of mud and blood; and my personal favorite, Watanabe (drawing from the acclaimed anime director Shin’ichiro Watanabe), which also features original lo-fi music created under his guidance. Each mode offers a distinct way to experience this stunning game.

The core combat system we all loved returns in full force. The tense standoffs, diverse fighting styles, guarding, parrying, sword play, and ranged weapons give you a wide array of ways to defeat your enemies as you hunt down the Yotei Six. Everything feels incredibly responsive. As the story unfolds, new techniques unlock, keeping combat fresh and expanding your arsenal. The audio design perfectly compliments exploration—from the whisper of the wind through through flowing grass guiding your path, to the clash of swords in battle and the subtle approach of foes from behind. Every element fits seamlessly together.

The Wrap up

In closing: Ghost of Yotei stands out as a rare complete game in today’s market. It builds on the strong foundation of its predecessor, enhancing the experience while remaining true to its core. The game offers a breathtaking world that is both beautiful and exciting to explore, paired with a story that begins simply but deepens as you meet more characters, adding emotional depth. In an era where games often launch prematurely with numerous issues, Sucker Punch has truly delivered a masterpiece. This isn’t just a sequel—it’s a strong contender for game of the year. Adding Ghost of Yotei to your collection is a decision you won’t regret.

Review Rating: Amazing