Yōtei's Ghost Joins Elden Ring and Breath of the Wild in Elite Exploration Ranks

Ghost of Yōtei is set to deliver an immersive journey through the untamed wilderness of Ezo, inviting players to uncover its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and deep-rooted traditions. As Sucker Punch’s highly anticipated standalone sequel to Ghost of Tsushima, the game builds upon its legacy by refining exploration, expanding combat mechanics, and embracing the spirit of Japanese folklore. Here’s everything we know about how the studio is elevating the experience—and what to expect in terms of gameplay length.

Raising the Bar for Exploration and Combat

Like its predecessor, Ghost of Yōtei invites players to roam a vast, open world inspired by feudal Japan. However, this time around, the setting shifts to the rugged, lesser-known region of Ezo—home to dense forests, snow-capped mountains, and ancient traditions. In a recent interview with GamesRadar+ on July 18, Sucker Punch directors Nate Fox and Jason Connell revealed how titles like Elden Ring and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild shaped their vision for discovery and player-driven exploration.

Connell emphasized that the team aimed to strike a balance between guidance and freedom. "We wanted to create new ways to present information without overwhelming the player," he said. "Some gamers love following the golden path, while others crave the thrill of getting lost and stumbling upon something unexpected. Our goal is to support both playstyles."

Combat has also undergone a significant evolution. Fox explained that Yōtei introduces deeper, more improvisational combat by replacing the original stance system with an expanded arsenal—now featuring a fifth weapon type. "These aren’t just cosmetic swaps," Fox noted. "Each weapon brings unique moves, strategies, and tactical depth to every encounter."

A major addition to the combat system is the inclusion of early firearms, reflecting the 300-year time jump since Tsushima. While guns are now part of the battlefield, they’re designed to complement—not replace—traditional samurai combat. "Firearms are deadly when used strategically, but they’re not overpowered," Fox clarified. "This is still a game about the blade. The sword remains the soul of the experience."

Beyond mechanics, the game dives into the cultural essence of Ezo. From the enigmatic wolf companion that aids protagonist Atsu to the haunting pursuit of the mythical Yōtei Six, the narrative blends serenity with tension. "The contrast between natural beauty and lurking danger is what defines this world," Fox said. "It’s where the game truly comes alive, and we’re incredibly proud of how it all comes together."

Game Length: Same Scope, More Content

Despite packing in more side activities, environmental storytelling, and exploration incentives, Ghost of Yōtei will mirror Tsushima in overall playtime. According to HowLongToBeat, Tsushima offers around 25 hours for the main story, with completionists spending roughly 50 hours to fully experience everything. Connell confirmed that Yōtei is on track to match that benchmark.

While the world is denser and more interactive, Sucker Punch remained focused on narrative cohesion. "We believe in giving players freedom, but never at the cost of storytelling," Connell explained. "The Ghost series lets you shape your journey—whether you want a cinematic samurai epic or a quiet, meditative exploration of nature. But we never lose sight of the core narrative. That structure is sacred."

Exclusive Ghost of Yōtei Popcorn Bucket Sells Out

In celebration of the game’s upcoming release, Alamo Drafthouse Cinema launched a special "Way of the Samurai" film series, showcasing classic samurai films that inspired the Ghost franchise. Featured titles include Lady Snowblood, Lone Wolf and Cub: Sword of Vengeance, The Tale of Zatoichi, 13 Assassins, and Ran—all curated to honor the cinematic roots of the series.

To mark the occasion, Alamomart released a limited-edition Ghost of Yōtei popcorn bucket modeled after a traditional Japanese rice basket. Priced at $40, the collectible sold out within hours of launch. The product description hailed it as "the perfect keepsake for any aspiring warrior." As of now, there’s no word on a restock.

With Ghost of Yōtei, Sucker Punch is not just continuing a legacy—it’s redefining it. By blending the exploration depth of Breath of the Wild, the emergent gameplay of Elden Ring, and its own cinematic storytelling, the studio is crafting a samurai experience that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. Set to launch exclusively on the PlayStation 5 on October 2, 2025, the game promises to be a visual, narrative, and mechanical triumph. Stay tuned for more updates as the release date approaches.