Key Mechanic Leads in Tears of the Kingdom

Ghost of Yotei is generating buzz as both one of the most eagerly awaited and enigmatic games in development. Developer Sucker Punch has recently given fans a taste of what’s to come with a stunning yet intense preview of the bold sequel to Ghost of Tsushima, but many details about Ghost of Yotei’s storyline and gameplay remain under wraps. What we do know is that we’ll be following a new character named Atsu, who will be leading an adventure set three centuries after the events of the original game.

At first glance, Ghost of Yotei might seem to echo Ghost of Tsushima, but due to this different era and Atsu’s unique motivations, it’s poised to set itself apart in significant ways. Much of the speculation arises from its announcement trailer, prompting fans to analyze every frame with a fine-tooth comb. One intriguing moment hints at possible influences from Tears of the Kingdom, particularly with what appears to be horse-taming elements. This would be a notable shift from the systems in place in Ghost of Tsushima.

In the trailer, around a minute and fifty seconds in, Atsu is seen riding a horse amongst a group of wild horses. While this could simply be a striking visual, it also might signal a dramatic departure from its predecessor. In Ghost of Tsushima, players chose between three horses—Nobu, Sora, and Kage—early on, though this decision didn’t heavily impact the game’s trajectory. However, Ghost of Yotei might be hinting at something that could enhance player experience. Involving players in taming horses, as seen in Tears of the Kingdom, can forge a deeper bond and immerse players more thoroughly in the journey alongside their horse.

The story of Ghost of Yotei unfolds at the start of the Edo period in 1603, a time of transition and turmoil.

In contrast to Jin’s honor-bound path in Ghost of Tsushima, Atsu’s journey hints at a different tale. Sucker Punch suggests that Atsu is on a quest driven by vengeance, potentially steering her down a more rebellious, rogue-like path. Comparisons between Jin and Atsu are inevitable as the game’s release approaches. However, Atsu’s story seems to brew with a more intense mix of bloodlust and fury, offering a compelling divergence.

Atsu’s possible horse-taming capabilities may initially appear unrelated to her vehemence, but the glimpses of her nomadic life align seamlessly with this gameplay mechanic. While Sucker Punch has consistently delivered breathtaking visuals and environments, evolving gameplay features to create a more enticing final product is a worthy endeavor. Making the acquisition of a horse more engaging and meaningful could be a smart move, considering the initial selection process in Ghost of Tsushima felt somewhat lacking.

Beyond horse-taming, Atsu diverges from Jin in other aspects as well. For instance, she plays a shamisen rather than a flute and wields new weapons, including dual katanas and matchlock muskets. The game also shifts to the setting of Mount Yotei in Ezo, a region that wasn’t fully integrated into Japan at the time.

Ghost of Yotei doesn’t have a confirmed release date yet but is tentatively scheduled for 2025.

Given the changes from setting to character motivations, Sucker Punch appears to be taking bold strides with this highly anticipated sequel. Just as the gameplay of Ghost of Tsushima accentuated Jin’s character, Ghost of Yotei seems poised to do the same for Atsu. The concept of a renegade character needing to tame a horse for journeying feels perfectly attuned.

Whether these ideas fully materialize remains to be seen, yet incorporating concepts from Tears of the Kingdom could provide the innovative touch needed to elevate the sequel to new heights. Fans eagerly await more news, hopeful that these inspirations will bring something fresh and exciting to the franchise.