Sony’s recent State of Play presentation delivered a detailed look at Ghost of Yōtei, the highly anticipated standalone sequel to Ghost of Tsushima. Set for release on October 2, 2025, exclusively for PlayStation 5, this new adventure takes players to Ezo (modern-day Hokkaido) in 1603, following a new protagonist named Atsu.
Creative directors Jason Connell and Nate Fox hosted the 20-minute gameplay deep dive, emphasizing the game’s commitment to player freedom. “Ghost of Yōtei isn’t going to rush you through anything,” explained Connell, adding that the game “focuses on player freedom more than any game Sucker Punch has ever made.”
Atsu’s journey centers on revenge against the “Yōtei Six,” a group of outlaws responsible for killing her family. The story casts her as an Onryō – a vengeful spirit in Japanese folklore – after surviving a brutal attack where she was pinned to a burning ginkgo tree. Players can hunt these six targets in any order, creating a non-linear experience.
Combat has evolved significantly from Ghost of Tsushima, with an expanded arsenal including katanas (with dual-wielding capabilities), spears, ōdachi, yari, kusarigama, and even firearms like the tanegashima rifle. Each weapon features its own upgrade path, allowing players to develop different fighting styles.
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The game introduces new systems to enhance exploration. A “Clue System” guides players to points of interest without constant map markers, while a “Wolf Pack” mechanic brings upgrades and unique items to players at campsites, reducing the need to interrupt exploration. Players can also build campfires anywhere to rest.
Fan-favorite features return, including Photo Mode and Kurosawa Mode (black-and-white filter), alongside new additions like “Miike Mode,” which brings the camera closer to Atsu for more visceral combat. The game will feature Japanese voice-overs with full lip-syncing, addressing a criticism of the original game.
Alongside the game, Sony unveiled two limited-edition PS5 consoles inspired by Japanese art forms. The globally available Gold Limited Edition draws from Kintsugi (repairing pottery with gold), while the PlayStation Direct-exclusive Black Limited Edition is inspired by Sumi-e (traditional ink painting). Both bundles include matching DualSense controllers featuring Atsu’s silhouette on the touchpad.
Sucker Punch has demonstrated a continued commitment to cultural authenticity, with Creative Director Nate Fox acknowledging their initial “ignorance about Japanese culture” and detailing their extensive work with cultural advisors, including Ainu representatives to respectfully portray indigenous culture.
Pre-orders are now available across Standard, Digital Deluxe, and Collector’s Editions, with all pre-orders including a unique in-game mask and seven PSN avatars featuring Atsu and the Yōtei Six.