Sucker Punch Productions has unveiled its highly anticipated follow-up to Ghost of Tsushima with Ghost of Yotei, a new open-world samurai adventure set in Japan's northernmost island of Hokkaido during the late Edo period.

The reveal came during Sony's PlayStation Showcase event, where a stunning nine-minute gameplay demonstration showcased the game's breathtaking winter landscapes, innovative snow physics, and refined combat system.

A New Setting and Era

"While Ghost of Tsushima told the story of the Mongol invasion of 1274, Ghost of Yotei takes place in the 1850s, during a time of great change and upheaval in Japan," explained Nate Fox, Creative Director at Sucker Punch. "Foreign powers are pressuring Japan to open its borders after centuries of isolation, creating tension between tradition and modernization."

Players will take on the role of Takeshi Nakamura, a disgraced samurai seeking redemption in the harsh winter wilderness of Hokkaido. The story explores themes of honor, survival, and identity against the backdrop of a rapidly changing Japan.

The game is named after Mount Yotei, an iconic stratovolcano in Hokkaido often called "Ezo Fuji" for its resemblance to Mount Fuji. The mountain serves as both a literal and metaphorical centerpiece for the game's narrative and exploration.

Revolutionary Snow Systems

The most impressive technical aspect of the demonstration was the game's dynamic snow system, which goes far beyond visual aesthetics to impact gameplay in meaningful ways.

"Snow isn't just a visual element—it's a core gameplay mechanic," Fox explained. "Deep snow slows movement and leaves tracks that enemies can follow. Blizzards reduce visibility but also mask your approach. Snow can collapse structures, reveal hidden paths, or avalanche down mountainsides."

The demonstration showed how players can use these systems strategically—using snowfall to cover tracks, melting snow to create water obstacles that freeze enemies, or triggering avalanches to eliminate groups of opponents.

Evolved Combat

Building on the foundation established in Ghost of Tsushima, the combat system has been expanded with new stances, weapons, and techniques that reflect the historical period and setting.

"The late Edo period saw the beginning of modernization in Japan, including the introduction of firearms," said Jason Connell, Art Director. "Players will need to adapt traditional samurai techniques to face enemies with primitive guns and Western-influenced fighting styles."

The gameplay demonstration showcased new weather-based combat mechanics, including the ability to use snow and ice tactically. One sequence showed the protagonist momentarily blinding enemies by throwing snow, while another demonstrated how wet blades could freeze to opponents in cold conditions.

Release Window

Ghost of Yotei is being developed exclusively for PlayStation 6 and is scheduled for release in Fall 2026. The game will take full advantage of the console's hardware capabilities, including advanced haptic feedback that lets players feel the crunch of snow and the resistance of blades cutting through different materials.

"We're creating an experience that's both historically grounded and incredibly immersive," Fox concluded. "Our goal is to transport players to this pivotal moment in Japanese history and let them experience the beauty, danger, and drama of Hokkaido's winter wilderness."