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Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut
Item: Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2021

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Open World, RPG, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableAug 20, 2021

PlatformPC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperSucker Punch

Overview

Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut Includes: - Full game. - Iki Island expansion: New story, mini-games, enemy types and more. - Legends online co-op mode. - Digital mini art book by Dark Horse. - Director’s commentary: The creative team sits down with a renowned Japanese historian to look at the world of Ghost of Tsushima and how it compares to the real-life events that inspired it. - One Technique Point. - Charm of Hachiman’s Favour. - Hero of Tsushima Skin Set: Golden Mask, Sword Kit, Horse, Saddle.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut has captivated critics with its rich narrative and character depth, particularly through the Iki Island expansion that delves into protagonist Jin Sakai's internal struggles and family history. While many praise the emotional weight and cohesive storytelling, some reviewers cite flaws like narrative disconnection and an underwhelming villain. Overall, despite minor criticisms, the expansion is celebrated as a profound enhancement to Jin's journey, solidifying the game's status as a narrative triumph in gaming.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

92%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut has garnered significant praise from critics, with many highlighting its engaging narrative and character development. Reviewers such as GameMAG and God is a Geek commend the Iki Island expansion for deepening the narrative, allowing players to explore Jin Sakai's internal conflicts and his family history. Critics like Push Square and Digital Chumps emphasize the emotional weight of Jin's journey, noting how it effectively ties into themes of honor, revenge, and personal growth. The expansion is described as a substantial addition that enhances the overall experience, with Everyeye.it and Jeuxvideo.com pointing out its well-crafted and focused narrative, which offers a more cohesive story compared to the base game. However, some critics have pointed out weaknesses in the narrative. For instance, CD-Action describes the story as a simple revenge tale lacking depth and a charismatic protagonist, which could make it forgettable. Similarly, IGN Italia mentions narrative dissonance, noting that while the Iki Island story is interesting for Jin's character development, it feels disconnected from his main journey. Additionally, Android Central critiques the underutilization of the new villain, suggesting that the rivalry between her and Jin lacks the necessary depth to elevate the conflict. These criticisms indicate that while the story has strong elements, it is not without its flaws. Overall, the consensus among critics is largely positive, with the majority praising the narrative's depth and emotional resonance. While some reviewers express concerns about certain aspects, such as narrative disconnection and character development, the prevailing sentiment acknowledges the expansion's ability to enhance Jin's character and provide a compelling storyline. Critics like Cultured Vultures and Vgames encapsulate this sentiment by highlighting the engaging exploration of Jin's past and the moral dilemmas he faces, ultimately positioning Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut as a significant achievement in narrative-driven gaming.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut shines with its engaging combat and rich open-world, especially thanks to the Iki Island expansion that adds new abilities and challenges. Critics praise the strategic depth of the combat but also note some repetitiveness and formulaic design similar to Ubisoft games. Despite minor control issues and familiar gameplay elements, it remains a compelling experience with plenty to offer both newcomers and veterans. Overall, it’s a standout in the action-adventure genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut has garnered significant praise from critics, with many highlighting its engaging combat mechanics and the rich open-world experience. Reviewers like PCMag and Destructoid commend the combat system for its depth, emphasizing the importance of strategy and stance-switching to defeat various enemy types. The addition of the Iki Island expansion is frequently noted as a successful enhancement, introducing new abilities, quests, and challenges that keep the gameplay fresh and exciting. Critics from The Mako Reactor and PlayStation LifeStyle specifically appreciate the upgrades to combat and exploration, which contribute to a more varied gameplay experience. The fluidity of combat, combined with the integration of stealth mechanics and new features like horseback charging, has been well-received, making the game feel dynamic and immersive. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. Some critics express concerns regarding the repetitiveness of the gameplay, with Metro GameCentral pointing out that it follows a "formulaic" structure reminiscent of Ubisoft titles. Others, such as Merlin'in Kazanı, note that while the combat can feel shallow at times, it suffers from a degree of repetition over the course of the game. Additionally, issues with control mechanics and AI behavior were mentioned by Carole Quintaine, indicating that there are areas where the gameplay could be improved. Critics like Player 2 also highlight common open-world design issues, suggesting that some aspects of the gameplay may feel familiar and less innovative. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut delivers a highly enjoyable gameplay experience, with many praising its combat mechanics and the enhancements brought by the Iki Island expansion. While some reviewers acknowledge the game's formulaic elements and occasional repetitiveness, the majority agree that the engaging combat, variety of activities, and improved mechanics create a compelling experience. Critics like GamingTrend and IGN France encapsulate this sentiment, noting that the game remains engaging and offers a wealth of content that appeals to both new players and series veterans alike. The combination of solid combat, exploration opportunities, and immersive world-building ultimately positions the game as a standout title in the action-adventure genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut dazzles with stunning graphics and immersive visuals, especially in its PS5 version with dynamic 4K and smooth 60 FPS. Critics rave about its artistic direction and the beauty of Iki Island. However, some argue the enhancements fall short, citing minor improvements and technical flaws like poor anti-aliasing and limited NPC detail. While the visuals are a major highlight, they don't wholly capitalize on next-gen capabilities, leaving room for improvement.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, particularly for their stunning representation of the Japanese countryside and the game's artistic direction. Many reviewers, such as Daily Star and Impulsegamer, praised the breathtaking vistas and detailed landscapes, highlighting the game's ability to create an immersive experience. The PS5 version, in particular, has been noted for its dynamic 4K resolution and smooth 60 frames per second performance, which enhances the overall visual fidelity. Critics like Worth Playing and LaPS4 emphasized the richness of colors and the impressive lighting effects, contributing to the game's cinematic quality. The new area of Iki Island has also been recognized for its distinct beauty and unique environmental features, further enriching the visual experience. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics pointed out several shortcomings in the game's graphical enhancements. GameMAG and The Mako Reactor noted that the visual improvements on the PS5 were not as significant as anticipated, with issues such as poor anti-aliasing and a lack of noticeable changes in draw distance or textures. SECTOR.sk raised concerns about the limited detail in the environment and the number of NPCs, which detracted from the visual experience. Additionally, some reviewers, like Push Square, felt that the Director's Cut looked too similar to the PS4 version, indicating that the enhancements might not have met expectations for a next-gen title. The overall consensus among critics is that while Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut excels in delivering a visually impressive experience, it is not without its flaws. The majority of reviewers, including those from IGN France and GamingTrend, highlighted the game's stunning visuals and artistic direction as a significant strength, making it a visual treat for players. However, the criticisms regarding the lack of substantial improvements over the original version and certain technical limitations suggest that while the game is visually captivating, it may not fully leverage the capabilities of the PS5 or PC platforms. Overall, the sentiment leans heavily towards appreciation for the game's aesthetics, with a recognition of areas where further enhancements could have been made.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut receives rave reviews for its stunning sound design and epic score, enhancing the immersive gameplay experience. Critics laud the innovative use of PS5's DualSense features, including haptic feedback and 3D audio, which create a captivating atmosphere. While there are minor issues with lip-syncing in the Russian version and suggestions for deeper musical exploration, the overwhelming consensus is that the audio elements are a standout highlight, elevating the game to memorable heights in its feudal Japan setting.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut is overwhelmingly positive across the board. Critics consistently praise the game's epic score and soundscape, which enhance the immersive experience significantly. Carole Quintaine highlights how the "epic music enhances the immersive experience," while CGMagazine notes that the score is "beautiful" and perfectly suited to various in-game scenarios. The innovative use of the PlayStation 5's DualSense controller, particularly its haptic feedback and 3D audio capabilities, is frequently mentioned as a key contributor to this immersive audio experience. For instance, Cultured Vultures emphasizes how traditional Japanese singing and adaptive triggers create a serene atmosphere, and Daily Star commends the "3D surround sound" that adds notable touches like the sound of guiding winds and rain. However, there are some criticisms regarding specific aspects of the sound design. While many reviewers appreciate the improvements in lip-syncing for the Japanese voice options, some critics, such as GameMAG, point out that there are still issues with lip-syncing in the Russian version, which could detract from the experience for some players. Additionally, although the sound design is generally praised, a few critics, like Vandal, note that there could be more elaboration on certain musical elements, indicating that while the audio is effective, there may be room for deeper exploration of its nuances. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut excels in sound design and music, creating a rich and immersive experience that significantly enhances gameplay. The majority of reviews affirm that the integration of 3D audio and DualSense features elevates the overall atmosphere, with many citing the improved lip-syncing and the beautiful soundtrack as standout elements. Critics like Impulsegamer and PCMag encapsulate the general sentiment, emphasizing how these audio enhancements draw players into the feudal Japan setting, making it a memorable and engaging experience. Overall, the sound design and music are considered one of the game's strongest attributes, contributing to its acclaim.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Critics rave about the voice acting in "Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut," especially in the PS5 version, praising the emotional depth and improved lip-syncing that enhances immersion. While some noted issues with the PS4 version's lack of lip sync and occasional mismatches, the overall reception is overwhelmingly positive, with standout performances like Daisuke Tsuji's as Jin Sakai highlighting the game's authenticity and emotional impact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in "Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut" has been largely praised by critics, with many highlighting the improvements made in the PS5 version. Destructoid noted the "lovely" Japanese voiceovers, while Everyeye.it emphasized the enhanced lip-syncing that significantly boosts immersion. Critics like IGN Italia and Vgames lauded the high quality of the Japanese voice acting, with IGN Italia describing it as "emotionally impactful." The synchronization of lip movements with the Japanese audio was frequently mentioned as a crucial element for authenticity and immersion, as noted by Launcher and The Games Machine. Overall, the voice acting has been described as strong and well-executed, contributing positively to the game's narrative and emotional depth. However, some criticisms have emerged regarding the voice acting experience, particularly concerning the previous PS4 version. Games.cz pointed out that the lack of lip sync in that version detracted from the overall experience, and some critics noted that the Japanese dubbing sometimes felt mismatched. Metro GameCentral mentioned that there were no significant changes to voice acting aside from the lip-sync improvements, implying that the performances themselves remained consistent rather than enhanced. Additionally, Jeuxvideo.com indicated that there were still issues with lip synchronization in certain versions on PC, suggesting that not all platforms delivered the same level of quality. Despite these minor criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive. The majority agree that the voice acting in "Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut" is of high quality, with many emphasizing the improvements made in the PS5 version. Critics such as NME and Player 2 highlighted the stellar performances, particularly Daisuke Tsuji's portrayal of Jin Sakai, which has resonated strongly with players. The general sentiment reflects that the voice acting, especially in Japanese, enhances the game's authenticity and emotional engagement, making it a standout feature of this edition.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut shines on PS5 and PC with smooth 60fps, dynamic 4K, and quick loading times, earning praise for its immersive DualSense features. However, minor hiccups like framerate stutters and visual glitches hold it back from perfection. Overall, critics celebrate its technical prowess, making it a standout experience despite some criticisms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

77%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut has garnered largely positive reviews across both PlayStation 5 and PC platforms. On PS5, many critics praised the game for its impressive enhancements, including stable performance at 60 frames per second and dynamic 4K resolution. Reviewers such as VGC and Destructoid highlighted the near-instant loading times and seamless gameplay, which significantly enhance the overall experience. The integration of DualSense features was noted as a positive aspect by several critics, including The Mako Reactor and Cultured Vultures, who found the haptic feedback and adaptive triggers to contribute to a more immersive gameplay experience. The PC version also received accolades for its optimization, with critics like God is a Geek and PC Gamer noting smooth performance at high frame rates and excellent scalability across various hardware configurations. Despite the overall positive sentiment, there were some criticisms regarding technical performance on both platforms. On PS5, GamingTrend pointed out issues such as framerate hitches, slow loading of character models in menus, and even crashes that detracted from the experience. Critics like Metro GameCentral and ComicBook expressed disappointment with the DualSense features, describing them as underwhelming compared to expectations. On the PC side, while the port was generally well-received, some reviews, including those from Impulsegamer and GameMAG, mentioned minor gameplay inconsistencies and visual glitches that could affect immersion, particularly in multiplayer modes. The consensus among critics is overwhelmingly favorable, with the majority agreeing that Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut delivers a technically impressive experience on both PS5 and PC. The enhancements in loading times, frame rates, and overall performance have been widely recognized, with critics such as Game Revolution and PCMag noting the improvements over the original title. While some minor issues were reported, they did not significantly impact the overall enjoyment of the game. As a result, the technical performance of the game is seen as a strong point, contributing to a compelling and immersive experience for players across both platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut" boasts strong replay value thanks to the Iki Island expansion and the Legends multiplayer mode, adding 10-20 hours of new content and fresh activities. However, critics warn of repetitive side quests and familiar gameplay that may dampen long-term engagement. While many players will enjoy the new offerings, the overall experience could feel too similar for those who loved the original, leading to mixed reviews on its lasting appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

58%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

42%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of "Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut" highlight several positive aspects that enhance the game's longevity. Many reviewers, including GameSpew and Multiplayer.it, noted that the Iki Island expansion adds significant content, with estimates of around 10 to 20 hours of additional gameplay. Critics like PC Gamer and The Mako Reactor emphasized that the new activities, such as archery challenges and Mythic Tales, provide fresh experiences for both returning players and newcomers. The inclusion of the Legends multiplayer mode was also frequently mentioned as a valuable addition, offering cooperative gameplay that extends the game's replayability, as highlighted by critics from Video Chums and GamingTrend. However, despite these positive points, several critics pointed out notable drawbacks that may hinder long-term replayability. Worth Playing and Everyeye.it expressed concerns about the repetitive nature of side quests and activities, which can diminish the incentive to revisit the game after completing the main story and expansion. Critics like IGN France reiterated this sentiment, suggesting that once players fully explore the new content on Iki Island, there may be little motivation to return. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Player 2 and VGC, noted that while the game offers a wealth of content, the overall structure remains similar to the original, potentially leading to a sense of familiarity that could deter replay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut" provides a mix of engaging new content and repetitive gameplay elements, resulting in a varied outlook on its replay value. While many reviewers, including PCGamesN and Destructoid, acknowledged the significant additions from the Iki Island expansion and Legends mode, they also recognized the repetitive nature of some gameplay aspects as a potential drawback. Critics like Cultured Vultures and Attack of the Fanboy highlighted the compelling narrative and engaging mechanics, suggesting that while the game is worth revisiting, players may find themselves facing a familiar experience. Ultimately, the game offers substantial replay value for fans, but the repetitive elements may limit its appeal for those who have already experienced the original game.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its enhancements and new content. Reviewers like Digital Chumps and PCMag highlight it as the definitive edition of an already beloved game, emphasizing the significant improvements and the engaging Iki Island expansion. Critics such as Push Square and Daily Star echo this sentiment, stating that the expansion alone justifies the price, while Cultured Vultures and Metro GameCentral commend the visual fidelity and engaging combat, which contribute to a rich open-world experience. The game is also described as a must-have for both newcomers and veterans, with Worth Playing giving it a high score of 9.5/10 and calling it the "samurai game of their dreams." However, the reviews are not without their criticisms. Several critics, including GAMINGbible and Android Central, express dissatisfaction with the pricing strategy for the upgrade path, which has left some fans feeling confused and frustrated. Additionally, while the Iki Island expansion is well-received, some reviewers like TheGamer and VGC note that the campaign's brevity and certain repetitive gameplay elements detract from the overall experience. Critics such as NME and Comicbook.com also point out that while the game is visually stunning, its slower pacing and narrative weaknesses may not resonate with all players. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among reviewers is overwhelmingly positive. The majority agree that Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut offers a comprehensive and engaging experience that builds upon the strengths of the original game. Critics like Malditos Nerds and IGN Italia emphasize that it is a solid continuation of Jin Sakai's story, showcasing the capabilities of the PS5 while providing a rich samurai adventure. Overall, the game is highly recommended, with many considering it a significant upgrade that successfully enhances the original's appeal, making it a worthwhile purchase for both new players and returning fans.

TL;DR

Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut garners overwhelmingly positive reviews for its significant enhancements and the exciting Iki Island expansion, hailed as a must-have for gamers, scoring as high as 9.5/10. Critics praise its visual fidelity and engaging combat but voice concerns over pricing and some repetitive gameplay elements. Despite a few drawbacks, it’s celebrated as a rich samurai adventure and a worthy upgrade for both newcomers and veterans.

MONSTER

Reviews

178 reviews found

100

Daily Star

PlayStation 5

Aug 19, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review states that this is the best version of Ghost of Tsushima and recommends it for both newcomers and veterans. The game receives a 5/5 verdict.

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100

GGRecon

May 17, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The overall verdict is highly positive, considering it one of the best-optimized games on PC.

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100

Digital Chumps

Jun 3, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut on PC is described as a top-tier gaming experience, combining a compelling story, rich gameplay, and stunning visuals.

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100

Gaming Age

PlayStation 5

Aug 23, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer highly recommends Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut as a must-play game.

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100

Player 2

PlayStation 5

Aug 19, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut is a great upgrade to an already beloved game, with the Iki island expansion enhancing the experience and additional improvements and features adding value.

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100

GameOver.gr

Jun 20, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, the game is a masterful blend of storytelling, visual artistry, and engaging gameplay, solidifying its status as a standout title in the gaming landscape.

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Video Chums

PlayStation 5

Aug 24, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review describes Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut as an outstanding package, praising its core experience, online modes, and the new Iki Island campaign. It also mentions that it has the same minor issues as the original game.

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GamingTrend

May 28, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut is an excellent port that lives up to its reputation, offering a rich experience with engaging content.

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CGMagazine

PlayStation 5

Aug 19, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ghost of Tsushima is a masterpiece that achieves a high gameplay standard while treating its historical source material with reverence and accuracy. It is visually stunning and offers a fluid combat experience.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Aug 20, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ghost of Tsushima: Director's Cut is an excellent addition to the gaming library, with engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and a quality story expansion. The only criticism is the need to pay again for the PS5 upgrade.

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