Summary
Regardless of what culture one lives in, there are codes and norms to live by that dictate what is honorable and what is dishonorable. InGhost of Tsushima, Jin Sakai is raised by the samurai code that insists upon certain rules of combat and conduct. All that is brought into question with the arrival of the Mongol invasion into Jin’s homeland.
His opponents don’t play by the rules, and soon he learns that perhaps he shouldn’t either. Both Jin and players are left to decide if there is any value in the samurai code in such a situation, leading Jin to take on a new style of combat that has him becoming the “ghost”. However, in futureGhost of Tsushimagames, it does not need to be Jin who takes on this role.
The Birth of the Ghost of Tsushima
Ghost of Tsushimablends both ninja and samurai gameplaywithin one character who has to choose which path he will take as he tries to stop the incoming Mongol invasion. Though he was raised to value the nobility of being a samurai, he quickly learns that he will need new tactics for a new enemy. Thus, he becomes the “ghost”, using tricks that render him unseen as he takes down his opponents.
This leads to the creation of the legend of the ghost who cannot be seen but strikes with deadly precision. From this, it becomes apparent that the “ghost” of Tsushima is not merely a person. Instead, it is an idea and a legend. With that comes the chance that others besides Jin could take on the role of the ghost, shouldTsushima and Iki Islandneed to be defended once again.
Would it be a Good Idea to Replace Jin Sakai?
Theoretically, anyone could be the “ghost” if they have good enough ninja skills. However, some players haveformed a bond with Jin Sakaispecifically and would be disappointed to not see him in the sequel. Hence, it would be a risky move for Sucker Punch to replace the original ghost of Tsushima.
The Potential Disciples of Jin Sakai
Jin wastaught how to be a samurai by Lord Shimura. In much the same way, Jin could pass on the role of the ghost to a disciple of his that he deems worthy. Alternatively, there could be multiple ghosts striking at the same time, all of them inspired by Jin and his ninja tactics.
Whoever decides to take on the role of the ghost would have to deal with the same moral conundrum that Jin faced. They would need to consider whether being a ninja is dishonorable and whether a true warrior faces their opponents head-on without any sneak attacks. It’s a question with no concrete answer, which is why it deserves to be investigated more in a sequel.
Is a Ghost of Tsushima Sequel on the Way?
Sucker Punch has yet to confirm whetherGhost of Tsushimawill be receiving a sequel. However, after its success, it would be hard to imagine it wouldn’t. Fans of the franchise needn’t worry about not getting their ninja action fix, however, as there is aGhost of Tsushimamoviein the works.
Ghost of Tsushimaleaves players pondering moral questions regarding whether there is any sense of fairness in war, or whether one should be free to use whatever tools are at their disposal. Likely, it’s not the last time players will engage with Tsushima’s ghost, though it does not have to be Jin behind the legend.
Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut
WHERE TO PLAY
In the late 13th century, the Mongol empire has laid waste to entire nations along their campaign to conquer the East. Tsushima Island is all that stands between mainland Japan and a massive Mongol invasion fleet led by the ruthless and cunning general, Khotun Khan.As the island burns in the wake of the first wave of the Mongol assault, courageous samurai warrior Jin Sakai stands resolute. As one of the last surviving members of his clan, Jin is resolved to do whatever it takes, at any cost, to protect his people and reclaim his home. He must set aside the traditions that have shaped him as a warrior to forge a new path, the path of the Ghost, and wage an unconventional war for the freedom of Tsushima.
