Ghost of Yotei, the highly anticipated sequel to 2020’s Ghost of Tsushima, is now available, offering players a fresh protagonist, a new setting, and brutal combat. To ensure a strong start, here are nine essential tips for navigating the game effectively.
Understanding the Connection to Ghost of Tsushima
The first question many players will have: do I need to have played the original? The answer is no. Ghost of Yotei takes place 400 years after the events of Ghost of Tsushima in a different region of Japan, presenting an entirely new story. There is no need to know the previous narrative to enjoy this standalone adventure.
Mastering the Cinematic Modes
Like its predecessor, Yotei features the acclaimed Kurosawa Mode, transforming the game into a stark black-and-white experience with enhanced film grain and immersive sound effects – a tribute to the legendary Japanese director Akira Kurosawa.
Beyond that, two new modes have been added. Miike Mode cranks up the gore, splattering blood and mud across the screen while zooming in during fights. However, the game warns this mode increases combat difficulty. Watanabe Mode alters exploration and combat music to a more laid-back, lo-fi beat, perfect for fans of anime like Samurai Champloo.
Weapon Throwing: A Brutal New Tactic
Yotei introduces the ability to throw fallen enemy weapons. After defeating an opponent, their weapon may remain stuck in the ground, glowing faintly. Press R2 to pick it up, then Square to throw it, dealing significant damage. This is an excellent way to thin out groups and looks devastating.
Exploring Your Childhood Home
The game directs you to your childhood home early on. Before leaving, take time to explore. The area contains cutscenes offering backstory and hidden money, as well as a map revealing additional secrets.
Looting Corpses for Resources
Always check fallen enemies for loot. Many carry money or resources. Quickly looting bodies ensures you don’t miss out on valuable items.
Finding the Lost Monk, Bessho
On your way from your home to the Shadow Inn, seek out Monk Bessho near an isolated tree with yellow leaves. Completing his sidequest grants a skill point, allowing you to unlock your first ability.
Prioritizing the Assassination Skill Tree
With your first skill point, invest in the assassination tree. These nodes allow stealthy one-shot kills, even against stronger enemies. Prioritizing this tree streamlines enemy camp encounters, reducing the number of foes you’ll face if discovered.
Speeding Up NPC Guidance
When following NPCs (such as Gessho toward shrines), accelerate their pace by running (L3). They match your movement speed, so sprinting will get you to your destination faster.
Camping for Advantages
Camping offers benefits, including cooking and resting. Your first opportunity is near where you met Gessho. Holding right on the directional pad initiates a cutscene with a traveler who provides enemy intel. Resting while playing the shamisen also unlocks a trophy.
These nine tips will help you dominate the early hours of Ghost of Yotei. The game is available now for PS5.
