1Upsmanship 1Upsmanship: Ghost of Tsushima (Feat. Zachary Ryan)
Jun 1, 2022
Zach Ryan, Director of Editorial Video at IGN, shares his insights on the beloved game Ghost of Tsushima. Together with the hosts, he delves into the game's mystical atmosphere and unique narrative structure, comparing it to Assassin's Creed and Breath of the Wild. They explore the moral complexities faced by the protagonist Jin, and the impact of gameplay on storytelling. The conversation also highlights Sucker Punch's innovative approach and the game's reception during the pandemic, sparking discussions about its future possibilities.
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Genre Fusion Creates A Distinctive Game
- Ghost of Tsushima blends Assassin's Creed stealth, Breath of the Wild exploration, and feudal-Japan aesthetics into a cohesive experience.
- Zach Ryan highlights revenge-driven three-act pacing with charming extras like petting foxes and haiku.
Moral Tension Elevates Familiar Mechanics
- The game intentionally questions Assassin's Creed-style tactics by making Jin's stealth a moral conflict with samurai code.
- Adam Ganser praises that historic framing even if the story beats sometimes falter.
Traversal Makes The World Meditative
- Players split on whether Ghost is exemplary or just 'fine', but many praise its meditative, pull-driven open world.
- Zach Ryan credits the wind-guided traversal for making side activities feel purposeful and calming.