By Set against a backdrop of cherry blossoms in 1600s Japan, Ghost of Yotei naturally features the ominous gleam of Ghost of Tsushima’s katana – an essential for any eerie samurai gaming experience – but developer Sucker Punch Productions is excited to share that there are explosive elements as well.
In a recent conversation with Variety, co-creative director Nate Fox stated that Ghost of Yotei incorporates “the advantage of gunpowder being part of the combat arsenal.”
“While the katana remains the premier weapon,” he elaborates, “having additional ways to create explosions is certainly a valuable enhancement for a video game.”
The violent saga of Ghost of Tsushima unfolds during the Mongol invasions in Japan in the late 13th century. Historically, as well as within the action-adventure narrative, gunpowder bombs did exist during this era, though Japan’s significant evolution concerning explosives wouldn’t occur until several centuries later.
Enter Ghost of Yotei, igniting the scene. A new trailer showcasing the October 2 launch date is vividly engulfed in orange flames – they dance in pits, on torches, yes, but also swirl around tree trunks and engulf an entire bridge as the protagonist Atsu prepares for the onslaught.
“The weaponry is tremendously important, of course,” Fox continues during the interview, “because mastering a weapon embodies the essence of samurai cinema. Achieving mastery over that blade is essential. Yet, we aspired to deepen players’ connection to the weapons and the environment.”
“Having the ability to wield such a diverse range of arms is a fresh experience for the game’s atmosphere,” adds co-creative director Jason Connell. “Each weapon offers its unique advantages.”
Ghost of Yotei will allow you to wield dual katanas, ōdachi, and numerous new weapons