(Image credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment)
Ghost of Yotei is set to be released later this year, and much like its predecessor Ghost of Tsushima, the developers at Sucker Punch are committed to delivering a respectful portrayal of Japan, despite the team being based in the US. To achieve this, they’ve shared insights into their field trips for scouting the game’s setting.
According to a PlayStation Blog by game director Nate Fox, he admits, “As an American, I had primarily seen the country through the lens of beloved classic samurai movies. But actually going there, feeling the wind on your face, smelling pine forests, and meeting locals is deeply inspiring.”
Fox emphasized that for the original game, Sucker Punch wanted to honor the reality of Tsushima’s history. They achieved this by weaving fictional tales within a digital version of Tsushima, albeit not a precise recreation. By “listening to our cultural advisors and doing extensive research,” they’ve applied the same methodology for Ghost of Yotei.
Hokkaido’s captivating combination of “natural beauty and a sense of danger,” coupled with its rich history, made it an “easy” choice for the new game’s setting. The team conducted “two reference gathering trips” to the region.
Mount Yotei particularly left a lasting impression on the team. Fox noted, “which the Ainu call ‘the Female Mountain.'” The trip deeply linked the mountain’s symbolism to Atsu, the game’s protagonist. For them, Yotei represents a symbol of Hokkaido. Meanwhile, for Atsu, it embodies home and the family she lost. The creative process of engaging with locals, discussing the game, and synthesizing new ideas greatly enriched their journey.
Fox openly admits, “as a bunch of Americans,” the team was aware of their lack of knowledge about Japanese culture. To bridge this gap, they consulted numerous knowledgeable individuals and visited vital cultural sites.
Sucker Punch’s commitment to authenticity hasn’t gone unnoticed. In 2021, Fox, alongside creative director Jason Connell, was honored as a permanent tourism ambassador for the island of Tsushima. There’s hope that their dedication to Ghost of Yotei garners similar recognition.
For those seeking weekly narratives and community tales, there’s much to anticipate. Tsushima stands out as one of the finest open-world games, and Yotei is poised as one of the most exciting upcoming titles for the PS5.