Ghost of Yotei Reviews
Ghost of Yōtei is that rare sequel that not only maintains the essence of its highly successful predecessor, but also qualitatively leapfrogs it in just about every meaningful way and metric. Underscored by a grippingly furious tale of revenge inspired by a layer cake of classic Japanese samurai cinema, the best combat ever seen in a samurai title and the most compelling open world since Red Dead Redemption 2, Ghost Of Yōtei is a jaw-dropping demonstration of Sucker Punch Productions operating at the peak of its considerable powers. Ghost of Yōtei redefines the term 'must-have' and wholly validates PlayStation Studios broader approach to embracing single-player epics such as this.
Ghost of Yōtei is another outstanding achievement by the team at Sucker Punch. While I didn’t love it as much as its predecessor, it is still one of the best games to launch this year. Sony continues to push the envelope when it comes to single player experiences. I just wish they would step outside of the template more often. This game hits all the notes I expected, for better or worse, and it suffered at times because of it. It rarely disappointed me, but it also rarely blew my socks off. I wanted to love it more, but it just played some parts too safe to make it stand out.
While Ghost of Yotei’s tale of revenge may not cut as deep as its predecessor, Sucker Punch’s blade is still deadly. The environments of Ezo are begging to be explored, and the melee combat has never been sharper, delivering more weapons, blood, and adrenaline-fueled duels worthy of the Kurosawa films that inspired it. Whether you’re a fan of Ghost of Tsushima or a newcomer to the series, Ghost of Yotei is a must-play. Atsu’s adventure sets a new gold standard for samurai action games and marks an exciting new chapter in the Ghost saga – one that will hopefully shape the series for years to come.
Ghost of Yōtei doesn't distance itself from Ghost of Tsushima too much, but the satisfyingly blood-soaked combat, rewarding exploration and intuitive ways of immersing the player make for a highly-addictive follow-up that we couldn't put down.
Ghost of Yotei separates itself from the original game in all the right ways, improving and iterating on everything from combat to quest design. This is what a sequel should be. This is why we play video games.
From its quiet contemplative moments, taking in the aurora borealis atop the peaks of Mount Yotei itself, to the nail-biting assaults on castles or liberating towns from Saito’s grasp, Ghost of Yotei was an excellent experience from start to finish.
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Review in German | Read full review
In any case, a stop in Ezo is a must for fans of Jin Sakai, and in general, anyone looking for a gripping and evocative adventure would do well to take on the role of Onryo.
Review in Italian | Read full review
Sucker Punch thus treats us once again to a beautiful epic in feudal Japan, which has nothing to be ashamed of compared to the great Japanese cinema from which it draws inspiration, and is worthy of the most poetic of haiku with a soothing shamisen tune in the background.
Review in French | Read full review
A worthy successor, this new legend in the Ghost saga stands on its own, and as tall as Mount Yōtei itself. Ghost of Yōtei takes the foundation of Ghost of Tsushima and builds something even better on it. Atsu’s journey to take on the Yōtei Six is magnificent, and backed by some of the best mechanics, visuals, sound, and immersive elements Sucker Punch has ever crafted.
Ghost of Yotei is a confident sequel that grows from its predecessor in smart ways, with a bigger, bolder, more beautiful world to explore every nook and cranny of. Atsu is a strong lead, and her journey of vengeance takes some compelling twists and turns, while Edo Japan provides a true bounty of interesting side quests, charming characters, neat distractions, and wonderful secrets across what feels like a truly epic adventure. With entertaining combat and visuals that are among the best seen, Ghost of Yotei balances its violence and beauty delicately, offering a strong experience from the team at Sucker Punch Productions: an entirely memorable journey, and an action-packed, stunning adventure.
Ghost of Yōtei is every bit the spectacle players should expect from the team behind Ghost of Tsushima. While the fundamental core remains familiar, Sucker Punch shows an even deeper understanding of vibrant, engaging worlds and Japanese culture.
On top of its gripping narrative, expanded weapon variety, and redefined approach to open-world game design, Ghost of Yōtei is a must-play and instant classic on PlayStation 5.
While fans of the original may initially find it more iterative than evolutionary, Atsu's quest for vengeance is an incredible new tale from Sucker Punch that expands on Tsushima in all the best ways.
After nearly 60 hours with Ghost of Yotei I can confidently say that this game elevates Tsushima into a new level, and introduces lots of well made innovations. It is a game with its own identity, a beautiful world, great exploration, and a cool story with a satisfying finale.
Review in Polish | Read full review
Ghost of Yotei remains a shining example of the industry's highest level of resource management in game development. If you found Ghost of Tsushima's classic gameplay formula enjoyable, then Ghost of Yotei will take that experience to the next level, delivering an unforgettable audiovisual journey.
Review in Chinese | Read full review
Ghost of Yōtei is an improvement on Tsushima when measured by almost any metric. The beautiful open world is dense and invites exploration, the combat is tighter and more varied, but it's Atsu's personal, honest story of revenge and self-reflection that makes this an unforgettable masterpiece.
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Review in Italian | Read full review
AAA samurai action with style, depth and thrilling combat; an open-world triumph.