Search for games

Type three or more characters to start searching

Links

Playstation

Twitch

MONSTER

Ghost of Yotei

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Ghost of Yotei
Item: Ghost of Yotei
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

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

AvailableOct 2, 2025

PlatformPlayStation 5

DeveloperSucker Punch

Overview

The game takes place 300 years after Ghost of Tsushima. Set in the lands surrounding Mount Yōtei, a towering peak in the heart of Ezo, an area of Japan known as Hokkaido in present day. The area is outside the rule of Japan, and filled with sprawling grasslands, snowy tundras, and unexpected dangers.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Ghost of Yōtei is praised for its engaging narrative and well-developed protagonist, Atsu, as he seeks revenge against the Yōtei Six. Critics commend its exploration of dark themes and the beautifully crafted setting of 17th century Japan. However, some find the story predictable and formulaic, with underdeveloped antagonists and sidelined cultural elements. Overall, it’s a compelling but not groundbreaking experience, celebrated for its emotional depth and character growth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Ghost of Yōtei has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who appreciate its compelling narrative centered around the protagonist, Atsu. Reviewers like Carole Quintaine and Game Informer highlight the well-developed character of Atsu, whose journey for revenge against the Yōtei Six is both engaging and emotionally resonant. Critics such as COGconnected and ScreenHub commend the exploration of darker themes like morality, grief, and the consequences of violence, which add depth to the narrative. The setting, described as beautifully crafted, enhances the storytelling experience, with GameStar noting the historical context of early 17th century Japan that enriches the plot. Additionally, the presence of emotional flashbacks and the protagonist’s character development are frequently mentioned as standout elements that elevate the overall narrative. However, not all aspects of the story received universal acclaim. Some critics pointed out issues with predictability and pacing, suggesting that the narrative can feel like a conventional revenge tale. For instance, 4P.de and VideoGamer noted that while the premise is solid, it lacks surprises and originality, making it feel somewhat formulaic. Digitally Downloaded raised concerns about the portrayal of Ainu history, arguing that the narrative sidelines important cultural elements. Furthermore, while characters like Atsu are well-developed, others, particularly some antagonists, are seen as underdeveloped, as mentioned by VGC and Movies Games and Tech. This inconsistency in character depth can detract from the overall impact of the story. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Ghost of Yōtei presents a compelling narrative that resonates with players, particularly through its protagonist, Atsu. Despite some criticisms regarding predictability and character development, the majority of reviewers emphasize the emotional weight and thematic depth of the story. Critics like DBLTAP and Gaming Age appreciate the nuanced portrayal of revenge and the protagonist's growth, suggesting that the game successfully delivers an engaging experience. While it may not break new ground in storytelling, the combination of strong character arcs and a richly crafted world has left a positive impression on most reviewers, making Ghost of Yōtei a noteworthy addition to the genre.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Ghost of Yōtei impresses critics with enhanced combat and engaging exploration, building on Ghost of Tsushima. Reviewers praise the strategic mechanics and variety of weaponry, while unique side quests deepen the experience. However, some note issues with repetitiveness and occasional clunkiness in combat. Despite these critiques, the overall consensus is that the game delivers a solid and enjoyable successor, successfully captivating players with its immersive world.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

31%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Ghost of Yōtei has garnered a predominantly positive reception from critics, who praise its enhancements over its predecessor, Ghost of Tsushima. Many reviewers, such as But Why Tho? and CGMagazine, highlight the improved combat systems, which introduce a variety of weapon types and emphasize strategic mechanics like parrying and dodging. Critics like COGconnected and Game Informer commend the fluidity and fast-paced nature of the combat, while also appreciating the meaningful exploration elements that encourage players to engage with the world around them. The incorporation of unique side quests and activities, as noted by Gamepressure and GIGA, enriches the overall experience, making gameplay feel distinct and engaging. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics have pointed out certain shortcomings within the gameplay. For instance, Carole Quintaine mentions that while the combat and exploration are enjoyable, some activities can feel repetitive. Similarly, VideoGamer criticizes the combat for occasionally feeling clunky and lacking depth, suggesting that the gameplay may lean towards formulaic elements. Critics like NME and Noisy Pixel echo these sentiments, noting that while the combat is satisfying, the game relies on familiar open-world mechanics that may detract from the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Ghost of Yōtei successfully builds upon the foundations laid by Ghost of Tsushima, offering an engaging and immersive gameplay experience. Most reviewers, including Guardian and TheSixthAxis, appreciate the depth and variety of the combat system, as well as the freedom to explore the open world. While there are some criticisms regarding repetitiveness and a lack of innovation in certain aspects, the majority of critics agree that the gameplay is solid and enjoyable, making Ghost of Yōtei a worthy successor in the franchise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Ghost of Yotei is a visual tour de force that has received near-universal acclaim for its breathtaking graphics and intricate world design. Critics rave about its stunning detail, advanced graphical features like dynamic weather, and art reminiscent of masterful paintings, solidifying its place as one of the best-looking titles on PS5. However, some dissenters argue that while the environments shine, character models and overall art direction fall short compared to its predecessor, Ghost of Tsushima. Despite these critiques, the game’s immersive atmosphere and stunning visuals dominate the conversation, marking it as a monumental achievement in gaming graphics.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

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 Yotei have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the game as a visual masterpiece. Reviewers such as But Why Tho? and Daily Star highlight the breathtaking visuals and fully realized world, emphasizing the incredible detail and immersive environments that reward exploration. Critics like CGMagazine and Game Informer mention advanced graphical features, including dynamic weather systems and stunning particle effects, which leverage the full capabilities of the PS5. The game's art design, noted by NME and Movies Games and Tech, is described as gorgeous and reminiscent of paintings, further enhancing the overall experience. With environments that are both vibrant and meticulously crafted, the game is celebrated as one of the best-looking titles on the platform. Despite the overwhelming positivity, there are a few dissenting voices regarding certain aspects of the game's visual design. Digitally Downloaded critiques the visual design as aesthetically overwrought, suggesting that while technically detailed, it falls short in execution compared to its predecessor, Ghost of Tsushima. Additionally, ZTGD points out that while the environments are gorgeous, the character models and overall art direction do not match the high standards set by the original game. This indicates that while the game excels in many areas, there are elements that some critics believe could have been improved. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Ghost of Yotei delivers an extraordinary visual experience that captivates players from the outset. The majority of reviewers agree that the game showcases stunning graphics and a beautifully crafted open world, with many describing it as one of the best visual experiences available on the PS5. Critics such as DBLTAP and VGC emphasize the game's ability to create an immersive atmosphere filled with life and detail, further solidifying its status as a visual triumph. While a few critiques exist, they do not overshadow the overwhelming admiration for the game's artistic achievements, marking it as a significant accomplishment in the realm of video game graphics.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Ghost of Yotei boasts exceptional sound design and a captivating original soundtrack, praised for its immersive Ainu cultural influences and innovative blend of traditional and old west styles. Critics laud its emotional depth and atmospheric integration, though some note occasional stilted voice performances that fall short. Overall, the audio experience is a standout feature, enhancing player connection and solidifying the game's impressive reputation.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

94%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The sound design and music of Ghost of Yotei have received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, highlighting the game's ability to create an immersive and atmospheric experience. Reviewers such as COGconnected praised the "immaculate sound design" and "phenomenal original soundtrack," which seamlessly blends with the visuals to enhance the gameplay. Critics like But Why Tho? and Guardian noted the authenticity of the background music, particularly its roots in Ainu culture and the innovative fusion of traditional Japanese instruments with old west-style rhythms. The emotional impact of the soundtrack is a recurring theme, with Loot Level Chill and Movies Games and Tech emphasizing how the music deepens the connection between players and the game's narrative, making it a standout feature. Despite the strong acclaim, some critics pointed out a few shortcomings in the sound design. TheSixthAxis mentioned that while the unique musical elements added by the character Atsu are intriguing, there are instances of stilted voice line deliveries that detract from the overall experience. Similarly, ZTGD criticized the main character's voice performance, suggesting that it may not fully meet the high standards set by the rest of the audio design. While these criticisms are notable, they do not overshadow the general praise for the quality of the sound design and music. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Ghost of Yotei excels in its sound design and musical composition, contributing significantly to the game's atmosphere and emotional depth. The majority of reviewers, including CGMagazine and PC Games, highlighted the effective integration of sound elements that enhance the player's immersion and connection to the story. With the inclusion of innovative features like a lo-fi hip-hop soundtrack mode, as noted by Slant Magazine, the game showcases a range of auditory experiences that cater to diverse player preferences. Ultimately, the sound design and music stand out as a major highlight of Ghost of Yotei, cementing its place as a noteworthy title in the gaming landscape.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Ghost of Yotei features acclaimed voice acting, particularly Erika Ishii’s standout portrayal of Atsu, enhancing the game's emotional depth and storytelling. Critics praise the immersive Japanese performances, though some note occasional stilted delivery and a lack of authenticity in certain moments. Overall, the voice acting is a key strength, significantly enriching the player experience despite minor critiques.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

87%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The voice acting in Ghost of Yotei has garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the exceptional performances that significantly enhance the game's narrative depth. Reviewers such as But Why Tho? and DBLTAP highlighted the standout performances, particularly noting Erika Ishii's portrayal of the protagonist, Atsu, which adds emotional resonance and complexity to the character. Critics like GIGA and Player 2 emphasized the immersive quality of the Japanese voice acting, which is well-synced with character animations, further enriching the player's experience. Overall, the voice acting is seen as a strong element of the game, contributing to a more engaging and emotionally charged storytelling experience. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. Some critics, like TheSixthAxis, pointed out moments of stilted delivery that could detract from immersion, suggesting that while many performances are strong, there are instances where the voice acting may fall short. Additionally, ZTGD noted that while most character performances are stellar, the main character's portrayal can come off as disingenuous at times, indicating a potential disconnect in the emotional delivery. These critiques suggest that while the overall quality is high, there are areas for improvement that could enhance the game's voice acting further. In summary, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the voice acting in Ghost of Yotei. With multiple reviewers, including Guardian and Slant Magazine, praising Erika Ishii's performance as a standout element that effectively conveys the character's emotional journey, it is clear that the voice acting plays a crucial role in the game's storytelling. Despite some criticisms regarding occasional stilted delivery and perceived disingenuousness in certain performances, the majority of opinions reflect a strong appreciation for the voice acting, affirming its importance to the overall immersive experience of the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

"Ghost of Yotei" shines on PS5, earning rave reviews for its seamless open-world experience, rock-solid 60 FPS, and rapid load times. Critics praise its smooth performance and impressive optimization, but note minor issues like awkward climbing mechanics and character animation inconsistencies. Overall, it delivers a high-quality experience, with minor flaws not detracting from its technical achievements.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The technical performance of "Ghost of Yotei" has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, particularly on the PS5 platform. Reviewers such as CGMagazine and COGconnected praised the game for its seamless open-world experience, with CGMagazine highlighting the absence of loading screens and COGconnected noting the effective utilization of hardware to achieve a rock-solid 60 FPS. Game Informer and Gamepressure echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the impressive load times that allow for fluid transitions, enhancing overall enjoyment. Additionally, GIGA and Noisy Pixel remarked on the game’s smooth performance and stable framerates, showcasing the impressive optimization on the PS5. VGC also contributed to the positive sentiment by commenting on the game's fast loading times and smooth operation across various graphical modes. Despite the overwhelmingly good reviews, some critics pointed out minor issues that could detract from the overall experience. TheSixthAxis mentioned minor flaws such as awkward climbing mechanics and inconsistencies in character animations, which, while not game-breaking, could disrupt immersion. ZTGD also noted that while the game runs well with various visual modes, some technical aspects did not meet the high standards set by its predecessor. These critiques suggest that while the technical performance is strong, there are still areas that could benefit from further refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Ghost of Yotei" delivers a commendable technical performance on the PS5, with the majority praising its speed, smoothness, and visual fidelity. The positive remarks from critics like NME, who acknowledged the polished competence throughout the game, reinforce the notion that the technical execution is largely successful. While there are some minor drawbacks mentioned, they do not overshadow the general acclaim the game has received for its performance, indicating that players can expect a high-quality experience on this platform.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Ghost of Yōtei garners praise for its engaging narrative and rich side content, enhancing replay value and player exploration. Critics highlight its nonlinear gameplay and addictiveness, but concerns about pacing and repetitive tasks may dampen long-term appeal. Overall, it’s a solid open-world adventure with replay potential, despite some drawbacks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

44%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Ghost of Yōtei reveal a generally positive sentiment among critics, highlighting various aspects that contribute to its replayability. Many reviewers, such as CGMagazine and Game Informer, commend the game for its plethora of side content and engaging side missions, which encourage players to explore the vibrant world. The nonlinear structure noted by Gamepressure allows players to tackle challenges in their preferred order, enhancing the overall experience. Critics like Player 2 describe the game as "extraordinarily addicting," suggesting that the engaging narrative and diverse activities will keep players invested for many hours, further indicating a strong potential for replay value. However, there are notable concerns that detract from the overall replayability of the game. Critics such as VGC and VideoGamer point out pacing issues and repetitive gameplay, which may diminish the desire to revisit the game after the initial playthrough. Additionally, Gaming Age mentions that while exploration is encouraged, aiming for 100% completion can become tedious, potentially leading to player fatigue. ZTGD echoes this sentiment by stating that despite the abundance of side quests, the lack of freshness in activities could hinder replay value over time. These critiques suggest that while the game offers an engaging experience, certain elements may limit its long-term appeal. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Ghost of Yōtei possesses significant replay value due to its engaging story, diverse side quests, and the freedom it offers players in exploration. While some reviewers, like Carole Quintaine and Loot Level Chill, imply that replayability is present without extensive elaboration, others provide a more detailed analysis of the game's strengths and weaknesses. Despite the concerns about pacing and repetitiveness highlighted by critics like VGC and VideoGamer, the overall impression remains that the game is crafted to encourage exploration and player engagement, making it a worthwhile experience for those who enjoy open-world adventures.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

90%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding "Ghost of Yōtei" is predominantly positive, with many critics praising it as a worthy successor to its predecessor, "Ghost of Tsushima." Reviewers such as Carole Quintaine and COGconnected highlight the game’s exceptional writing, beautiful visuals, and engaging gameplay, suggesting that it surpasses its predecessor in several key aspects. Critics like Loot Level Chill and Player 2 describe it as a masterpiece, commending its captivating story and stunning aesthetics. The game is characterized by its meticulous attention to detail and immersive world, with CGMagazine noting its smart design and gritty narrative, making it a must-play title for PS5 owners. However, not all reviews are entirely favorable. Some critics express concerns regarding the game’s narrative depth and innovation. For instance, 4P.de mentions that while the sequel expands on its predecessor's strengths, it fails to innovate in its storytelling. Similarly, Digitally Downloaded criticizes the game for not respecting cultural contexts, despite achieving some gameplay success. Other critics like VideoGamer and ZTGD echo these sentiments, suggesting that the game, while visually impressive, falls into the trap of style over substance and feels too familiar compared to its predecessor. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Ghost of Yōtei" is a strong and engaging title that successfully builds upon the foundations laid by "Ghost of Tsushima." While some reviewers point out issues with narrative innovation and formulaic design, the majority highlight its captivating gameplay, stunning visuals, and rich storytelling. Critics such as Game Informer and Gaming Age affirm that the game offers a satisfying and immersive experience, solidifying its place as one of the standout titles on the PS5. Despite some minor drawbacks, the game is celebrated for its overall quality and is recommended as a must-play for fans of the genre.

TL;DR

"Ghost of Yōtei" is largely hailed as a stellar sequel to "Ghost of Tsushima," with critics praising its exceptional writing, beautiful visuals, and immersive gameplay. While many consider it a masterpiece, some reviewers note issues with narrative depth and innovation, arguing it leans on familiar tropes. Despite these concerns, the game is still deemed a must-play for PS5 owners, offering a captivating and satisfying experience overall.

MONSTER

Reviews

198 reviews found

100

COGconnected

PlayStation 5

Sep 25, 2025