Do You Have to be Dishonorable in Ghost of Tsushima?
Ghost of Tsushima is an action-adventure game set in feudal Japan during the Mongol invasion of 1281. Developed by Sucker Punch Productions, the game allows players to experience the story of Jin Sakai, a samurai who fights to resist the Mongol occupation of Tsushima Island. A central theme in the game is the concept of honor, which is often intertwined with the player’s choice to engage in honorable or dishonorable actions.
No Honor/Dishonor Meter
Unlike other games that feature an honor or dishonor system, such as Red Dead Redemption or Assassin’s Creed, Ghost of Tsushima does not have a traditional honor system. There is no honor or dishonor meter that increases or decreases as the player makes choices. Instead, the player’s actions are evaluated by the game’s story and characters, which are often influenced by the player’s decisions.
Impact on Story
The player’s choices can have significant impact on the story, as they shape the characters and their relationships with each other. For example, some characters may view the player as a hero or a renegade depending on their actions. This can lead to different outcomes and interactions in the story, adding a layer of replayability and depth to the game.
Avoiding Assassination
For the most part, nothing in the game forces the player to engage in dishonorable actions, such as assassinating civilians or surrendering to the enemy. The player is free to choose how they want to approach situations, whether that means engaging in stealth or combat or using their skills to escape or reason with enemies.
Ghost of Tsushima’s Take on Honor
Ghost of Tsushima presents a unique perspective on the concept of honor. In the game, honor is not necessarily about following traditional samurai code or avoiding dishonorable actions. Instead, honor is about staying true to oneself and one’s values, even in the face of adversity.
Comparison with Other Games
To further illustrate the difference in approach, consider other games that feature an honor system. In these games, engaging in dishonorable actions can result in negative consequences, such as decreased moral fiber or reduced relationships with NPCs. In Ghost of Tsushima, the player’s choices are more nuanced and context-dependent, allowing for a more realistic and thought-provoking exploration of the concept of honor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ghost of Tsushima does not have a traditional honor or dishonor system like other games. Instead, the game presents a nuanced and realistic exploration of the concept of honor, encouraging players to think critically about their choices and actions. While the game does offer some options for dishonorable behavior, nothing in the game forces the player to engage in dishonorable actions. The game’s unique take on honor and its player-driven storytelling make it a standout in the action-adventure genre.
Recommended Reading
- Sucker Punch Productions. (2020). Ghost of Tsushima. Sucker Punch Productions.
- Hoffman, J. (2020, July 20). Ghost of Tsushima Review. IGN.
- IGN. (2020, July 20). Ghost of Tsushima Guide: How to Play Honorable or Dishonorable. IGN.