Ghost of Yotei Should ‘Steal’ One Red Dead Redemption Feature

by

As someone who has spent countless hours immersed in the breathtaking landscapes and captivating narratives of both “Ghost of Tsushima” and “Red Dead Redemption 2”, I am beyond excited for the upcoming sequel, “Ghost of Yotei”. The teaser trailers have already showcased a stunning portrayal of nature that is reminiscent of its predecessor.

The upcoming game titled Ghost of Yotei is deviating in several aspects compared to its predecessor, yet one point remains undeniable. The much-awaited sequel to Ghost of Tsushima will persist in honoring the splendor of nature. The initial glimpses of Ghost of Yotei present a captivating montage of stunning natural scenery, showcasing expansive vistas and untamed wildlife. It appears that Ghost of Yotei will emphasize the local fauna, providing an excellent opportunity for the game to draw inspiration from the animal-focused aspects seen in Red Dead Redemption 2.

In Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2), there’s an intriguing detail that significantly impacts the storyline. When Arthur Morgan has low honor in RDR2, he’ll be accompanied by coyotes during rainstorms. The way you play RDR2, particularly your honor level, influences the narrative substantially, but it greatly affects Arthur’s spirit animal. If Arthur is of high honor, a stag symbolizes him, but when his honor is low, a black coyote becomes his spirit animal. These animals symbolize the man Arthur has become as a result of the player’s actions, and Ghost of Yotei seems like an ideal game to draw inspiration from this concept.

Ghost of Yotei Should Take Note of Red Dead Redemption 2’s Approach to Animal Symbolism

Ghost of Yotei is Already Teasing a Big Animal Connection

In the game Ghost of Tsushima, Jin Sakai had a deep affection for nature that seems to be shared by Atsu from Ghost of Yotei. Throughout the preview trailer, Atsu is depicted galloping among free-roaming horses and even appearing to form bonds with a wolf. The animal themes in Ghost of Yotei are a subtle yet powerful link to its predecessor. Many details about Ghost of Yotei remain unknown, but it’s been confirmed that Atsu’s journey is driven by vengeance – quite different from Jin’s motivations. However, the story may not be as straightforward as it appears. Atsu’s vengeful journey might stem from righteous anger and thirst for justice, much like Arthur in Red Dead Redemption 2. Through her choices, Atsu could seek revenge in a way that is either noble or ruthless, which may influence her connection with nature similarly to how it affected Arthur’s relationship with the wilderness.

In further contrast to Jin, Atsu will also dual-wield swords and even use matchlock guns.

Ghost of Yotei’s Setting Could Inform Its Approach to Animals

In the year 1603, the story of “Ghost of Yotei” unfolds in a region known as Ezo, a place that would later be known as Hokkaido. At this time, Ezo was not formally part of Japan. The indigenous inhabitants, the Ainu people, were animists, holding the belief that all living things had spirits. This belief lends greater importance to animals in the tale, and the actions of the protagonist, Atsu, could potentially summon specific types of animal spirits throughout her journey. Given the setting and time period chosen by developers Sucker Punch, it is plausible that animals may hold deeper, perhaps mysterious, meanings.

The Ainu community held wolves in great esteem, and a wolf deity called Horkew Kamuy, or “god of howling,” was significant in their culture. This suggests that the wolf friend hinted at in Ghost of Yotei might carry a deeper symbolism.

Exploring Atsu’s Gray Morality

Atsu could turn out to be a character with layers, even more intricate than Jin, which makes things interesting. While Jin’s narrative was gripping and full of complexity, Ghost of Yotei might be hinting at an exploration of ethical ambiguity that’s deeper still. Unlike Jin who was focused on safeguarding Tsushima island, Atsu’s story involves him as a solitary wolf seeking vengeance, a stark contrast to Jin’s protective mission.

As The Game Awards approach, we’re hoping for more details about the upcoming game, Ghost of Yotei, possibly including new footage or even a release date. Skipping a direct sequel to Ghost of Tsushima and instead opting for a fresh setting and character in Ghost of Yotei was a bold move by Sucker Punch, but it could be just what’s needed to take the franchise to the next level.

Read More

2024-12-06 00:33