Ex-Sony Exec Responds to Ghost of Yotei Female Protagonist Criticism

Ex-Sony Exec Responds to Ghost of Yotei Female Protagonist Criticism

Key Takeaways

  • Shawn Layden defends Ghost of Yotei and encourages personal judgment and common sense.
  • Negative reception stems from the game not being a direct sequel and having a female protagonist.

As a seasoned gamer with decades of gaming experiences under my belt, I have seen the industry evolve and adapt to changing times. The recent controversy surrounding the announcement of Ghost of Yotei, a sequel to the critically acclaimed Ghost of Tsushima, has caught my attention.


Previously at Sony, Shawn Layden has expressed his views on the stir caused by the new female protagonist in the upcoming title, Ghost of Yotei. This sequel to the successful game Ghost of Tsushima was unveiled during Sony’s State of Play event held on September 24th. The original Ghost of Tsushima was a hit from veteran developers Sucker Punch Productions. Despite limited information about Ghost of Yotei since its announcement, it has sparked dissatisfaction within certain circles.

Some individuals have expressed disapproval towards the reveal of Ghost of Yotei. Some were disappointed as they had hoped for a direct sequel to Ghost of Tsushima, a storyline they had already invested in. Others, however, showed resentment due to the game’s protagonist being female. While Atsu, the main character of Ghost of Yotei, will provide a fresh viewpoint on the ghost’s journey within this game’s universe, Sucker Punch is enthusiastic about sharing this new project with the players.

In light of the unfavorable response to the unveiling of Ghost of Yotei, former PlayStation executive Shawn Layden advises people to exercise their individual discernment and common sense. Layden responded to a screenshot shared by YouTuber MightyKeef showcasing the uproar, explaining that the team at Sucker Punch is genuinely committed to creating this game. He further suggests that if someone isn’t fond of what the team is producing, they might choose to steer clear of the game. As an alternative, they could even consider taking on the challenge of developing their own video game.

Shawn Layden Defends Sucker Punch Productions

As a passionate fan, I can tell you that Shawn Layden playfully referenced the film Zoolander after our conversation, using a GIF and quipping, “I feel like I’m taking crazy pills.” This was his humorous way of expressing how astonished he is by the fervor surrounding this game already. As the CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment America, Layden has an intimate understanding of the forces driving game development. When he says that “Ghost of Yotei” is a story that the creators are deeply invested in, it’s fair to take him at his word. It’s clear from his statement that if some folks don’t share this vision, it won’t deter the game from being made.

The outrage stemming from the reveal of this game cites discontent at media encroaching on masculinity, suggesting that it’s being “replaced by women.” This is a statement that many familiar with Ghost of Tsushima find confusing, because some of the strongest characters in its cast, such as Masako Adachi, who almost kills Jin the first time they meet, are women. Masako’s story is central to the narrative, and that’s just one example. The involvement of women within the context of the Ghost series doesn’t appear to be changing anytime soon.

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2024-09-26 02:13