Ghost of Yotei’s Daring Take on Repetition Holds Hidden Risks

Open-world games are celebrated for offering players almost limitless creative freedom, allowing them to explore and engage in a variety of actions. However, despite developers’ best efforts, these games often encounter challenges that prevent them from delivering a perfectly diverse experience. Sucker Punch, known for crafting the acclaimed Ghost of Tsushima, faces similar hurdles. Ghost of Tsushima, with its rich depiction of feudal Japan, garnered attention for its captivating gameplay. Yet, reviewers frequently pointed out its repetitive elements. As Sucker Punch prepares to launch Ghost of Yotei this year, there’s talk of addressing these repetitive aspects, but the developer should proceed with caution.

The familiar adage “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” aptly reflects the situation. While examining the nuances of Ghost of Tsushima, it’s evident that Sucker Punch should keep the essence of what made the game successful. However, there’s room for improvement, particularly regarding the depth of side quests, combat variety, and exploration. These tweaks could enhance the 17th-century Japanese setting of Ghost of Yotei significantly.

Ghost of Yotei aims to offer a refreshing experience, balancing the need to innovate without abandoning the elements that players loved in its predecessor. Sucker Punch must tackle the glaring weaknesses of Ghost of Tsushima to enhance the new game’s combat. Though combat was a highlight, the repetitive nature of enemy types might bore players quickly. Introducing more varied foes beyond the spear, shield, and archer types could keep players engaged. Additionally, reducing excessive random encounters across the map might maintain the excitement while exploring.

Another key area for evolution is the side quests. In Ghost of Tsushima, these quests were essential for map exploration, but their content was often predictable. Players found themselves repeatedly rescuing peasants and sitting through unskippable scenes. For players seeking unique subplots independent of the main narrative, this became a sticking point.

Games like Assassin’s Creed Odyssey have managed to avoid this repetitiveness by offering varied environments and scenarios in their side quests. Ghost of Tsushima, conversely, struggled with such variety in its world design.

Despite the push for variety, one could argue that some repetition is essential in RPGs as it’s linked to character development. Repeated actions can be a crucial part of growing stronger in the game, progressively building the character’s strength for tougher challenges. It becomes a fulfilling path to earning gear and experience.

Repetition in RPGs is inevitable, and Sucker Punch doesn’t need to swing drastically in the opposite direction. While Ghost of Yotei could certainly benefit from shaking things up, retaining some repetitive elements may be necessary for player immersion and character growth in its historical setting. Balancing new with the familiar can help provide players with both growth and nostalgia, making Ghost of Yotei an engaging and worthy successor to Ghost of Tsushima.