Ghost of Yōtei is a masterclass in open-world storytelling and technical brilliance for PS5

In 2020, Ghost of Tsushima was a perfect game to close out the PlayStation 4 era. It represented the pinnacle of Sony’s first-party output — an open-world adventure rich with storytelling, gorgeous visuals and deeply engaging combat. 

Fast-forward to 2025, and while the PS5 still has plenty of years left in its life cycle, Ghost of Yōtei feels like a game unique to this generation. Sucker Punch’s sequel is a riveting tale of revenge and redemption, an exceptional console exclusive that brings out the best of the PS5.

Ghost of Yōtei’s developers waste no time throwing you into the thick of things, setting the stage for a saga of vengeance and tragedy that’s as razor-sharp technically as it is narratively. 

An iterative sequel, Yōtei builds on the foundation laid by Tsushima to create an experience that’s both brutal and hauntingly beautiful, set in a romanticised version of Ezo (modern day Hokkaido) during Japan’s feudal era.

It’s the art of discovery where Ghost of Yōtei truly shines. This open-world epic never overwhelms you with cluttered mini-maps or endless icons. Elegantly minimal in design, it invites exploration at your own pace. 

A short trek across the plains might lead you to a hidden shrine, or perhaps a tense standoff where swift justice is delivered at the edge of a blade. Wherever the wind guides you, Ghost of Yōtei rewards curiosity with adventure and spectacle.

That sense of discovery is anchored by a gripping main campaign. The protagonist, Atsu, is driven by her determination to bring down the Yōtei Six — a gang of outlaws who rose to power in the 16 years since they slaughtered her family. 

What begins as a straightforward mission of vengeance gradually unfolds into something more nuanced and emotional. 

While Ghost of Tsushima and its protagonist Jin Sakai explored themes of duty and honour, Ghost of Yōtei evolves into a story about healing, forgiveness and found family by the time the credits roll. 

Side missions complement this journey, offering moments to hone your skills and uncover more of Ezo’s secrets. With the main campaign running for about 25 hours, and side content easily doubling that number, Ghost of Yōtei is a substantial tour of ancient Japan.

Erika Ishii delivers a commanding performance as Atsu, the fabled “Onryō”, a warrior who’ll use any means necessary to bring justice to her enemies — and those means are often savage. 

Whereas Ghost of Tsushima armed you with gadgets and multiple stances, Ghost of Yōtei refines the formula with weapon mastery. Each style feels distinct, and combat plays out like a deadly dance of rock-paper-scissors where precision and timing are everything.

On the technical front, Ghost of Yōtei is nothing short of breathtaking. Its painterly art direction and cinematography — complete with filters inspired by Japan’s greatest movie-making auteurs, like Kurosawa — create a world that looks alive. 

The PS5’s DualSense controller plays a crucial role, too. Gestures like bowing, playing Atsu’s shamisen, or wiping blood from her sword are performed with a flick of the touchpad, while adaptive triggers and haptic feedback make every clash feel tactile and immediate.

Between Ghost of Yōtei and Assassin’s Creed Shadows from earlier this year, fans of samurai action have been spoiled for choice in 2025. 

Both games offer riveting tales and expansive worlds to explore, but Ghost of Yōtei comes out on top with its stunning art direction, sharper gameplay, and an organic sense of discovery within its digital landscape. 

It might feel a little too similar to its Ubisoft rival, especially narratively, but that feeling quickly subsides when you find yourself absorbed in a well-crafted story that’s bolstered by graceful visuals. DM

Ghost of Yōtei is out now as a PlayStation 5 exclusive. This review was first published on PFangirl.