Ghost of Yōtei finally unsheathed: the release date for the long-awaited follow-up to Ghost of Tsushima has landed. Here's what we know so far...
Revealed to thunderous applause during PlayStation’s State of Play on September 24, 2024, Ghost of Yōtei has already carved out a place in fans’ hearts – and not just with a katana.
Release Date & Plattforms
Nominated for Most Anticipated Game at The Game Awards 2024, this atmospheric adventure is set to launch exclusively for PlayStation 5 on October 2, 2025 for $69.99. Preorders are already live on PlayStation.com and select retailers – and judging by the buzz, spirits are high.
Setting
Set in the 1600s on the remote northern frontier of Ezo (modern-day Hokkaido), Ghost of Yōtei presents a cinematic vision of rural Japan. Snow-covered shrines, misty onsen baths, and the imposing silhouette of Mount Yōtei create a landscape that is as serene as it is unforgiving.
The team at Sucker Punch Productions drew inspiration from multiple research trips to northern Japan. Creative Director Jason Connell described Mount Yōtei’s “breathtaking isolation” as a key influence. To bring the world to life, sound designers captured the natural ambience of Shiretoko National Park – wind, wildlife, and all.
Story
Unconnected to its predecessor, Ghost of Yōtei tells a standalone tale. The game follows Atsu, a mercenary haunted by her past, who has embraced the identity of an Onryō – a vengeful spirit from Japanese folklore known for meting out justice from beyond the grave.
Sixteen years after witnessing her family’s brutal murder – nailed to a ginkgo tree (you can see its leaves on the title logo of the game) – Atsu now hunts those responsible: the infamous Yōtei Six, a notorious gang whose members include the Snake, the Oni, the Kitsune, the Spider, the Dragon, and their elusive leader, Lord Saitō.
While vengeance fuels her blade, the journey cuts deeper. Ghost of Yōtei explores deeper themes of grief, healing, and forgiveness – offering players more narrative agency than Ghost of Tsushima ever did.
Gameplay
Ghost of Yōtei is a third-person, open-world action adventure.
But beneath the cherry blossoms lies a sharpened edge. Combat in the game is essential and highly customizable. Atsu begins with the poetic and painful inheritance of the very katana she was staked to the tree with as a child. As players progress, they'll unlock new weapons like dual katanas, bows, and even early firearms.
Exploration is just as important. What sets this sequel apart is its expanded player choice. The developers emphasized giving players more freedom than ever: choose which member of the Yōtei Six to hunt first, take on dangerous bounties, or train with legendary weapon senseis to unlock new skills.
The world of Ezo is open – and very much alive. Between battles, players can stargaze, practice sumi-e painting, or simply soak in the quiet beauty of the landscape.
And yes, there are rideable companions. Because nothing says epic quite like galloping through fog-drenched forests on horseback with cold resolve and a warm blade.
Utilizing the PS5’s full capabilities, the game promises an immersive experience. Players will feel every clash of steel through the DualSense controller's responsive vibrations, while 3D spatial audio – available via built-in TV speakers or stereo headphones – will place every rustle and whisper of the forest around you.
Editions & Extras
For those who want more, Sucker Punch has packed the shelves with multiple editions.
The Digital Deluxe Edition ($79.99) includes exclusive armor sets, horse saddles, sword kits, and early access to a detailed in-game map.
For those seeking a shrine-worthy collectible, the Collector’s Edition ($249.99) comes packed with physical treasures.
Alongside all digital perks, it includes a life-sized replica of Atsu’s haunting spirit mask – designed to sit beautifully next to Jin Sakai’s from Ghost of Tsushima. Also featured are a cloth sash embroidered with the names of the Yōtei Six (cross them off as you go), a replica of Atsu’s katana guard crafted by her father, in-game coins, a mini-guide to Zeni Hajiki (a dexterity-based mini-game), and a foldable paper ginkgo tree – rooted, of course, with a wolf at its base.
Nothing like having matching vengeance décor.