Could Sucker Punch’s Next Game Take Us Back to Japan’s Rich Classical History?

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The game titled “Ghost of Yotei” is a follow-up to Sucker Punch’s popular title “Ghost of Tsushima”. Unlike its prequel, which was set during the Mongol invasion in the 13th century, “Ghost of Yotei” will unfold in the early years of the Edo period, approximately 300 years later. Fans were taken aback when Sucker Punch announced that “Ghost of Yotei” would be set hundreds of years after “Ghost of Tsushima”, as they had initially anticipated a sequel featuring Jin in some way. However, it appears that the series may introduce new, independent protagonists instead. If this is the case, the sequel to “Ghost of Yotei” might delve into Japan’s classical period as its setting.

Japan’s history is divided into distinct eras, each characterized by the dominant political system or significant events. For instance, the Sengoku era, or “Warring States period,” was marked by numerous civil wars. The game Ghost of Tsushima is set in 1274 during the Kamakura era. This time saw the rise of the samurai class, the advent of feudalism in Japan, and the Mongol invasion. On the other hand, Ghost of Yotei occurs in 1603, the first year of the Edo period. However, Atsu’s flashbacks might depict events from the Azuchi–Momoyama era, as it overlaps with the start of the Edo period. Overall, Sucker Punch has a rich selection of historical periods to draw inspiration from.

Setting Ghost of Yotei’s Sequel in Japan’s Distant Past

Instead of placing the sequel to “Ghost of Yotei” some years after its events, Sucker Punch could opt to set it in the past, prior to the Kamakura period that “Ghost of Tsushima” is based on. Since the Kamakura period marks the start of feudal Japan’s historical timeline, going back further would mean setting the next game in the Classical era of Japan.

The formative years of Japanese culture span from the Asuka period in 538 to the Heian period ending in 1185. This epoch, often referred to as Classical Japan, is recognized for its rich cultural growth and significant advancements. During this time, Chinese characters were adopted, a unique Japanese writing system was developed, literature and poetry flourished, music and silk production expanded, and art took shape. Yet, this era was also marked by political instability, with various clans competing for power, and the introduction of Buddhism adding complexity to the power struggles.

Japan’s Classical Period Has a Wealth of Potential For a Ghost of Yotei Sequel

Asuka Period (538–710)

The Asuka era marks the beginning of ancient Japan’s recorded history, and for most of this period, the Soga clan held significant power. However, their reign was cut short by a coup, famously referred to as the Isshi Incident. If the protagonist from the Ghost of Yotei were to abandon its focus on vengeance, a coup plot could offer an intriguing context instead. This twist would emphasize stealth and assassination mechanics over the samurai combat seen in earlier games. Players might find themselves grappling with the choice of which faction to align with, all within a Japan that is on the cusp of becoming the nation we recognize today.

Heian Period (794–1185)

The Heian era marked the final chapter of Classical Japan, making it an enticing backdrop for a continuation of “Ghost of Yotei.” A game set within this timeframe could offer a captivating portrayal of ancient Kyoto, one of Japan’s most renowned cities. This period was fraught with strife, particularly towards its end when the imperial court’s authority was threatened by powerful noble families and landowners. In response, these nobles hired samurai to safeguard their interests, thereby ushering in the rise of the samurai class during the subsequent Kamakura period. A “Ghost of Yotei” game based on the Heian era could tap into this conflict, with the main character potentially being a samurai serving a noble family, while also incorporating the court’s political machinations.

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2025-05-23 18:25