Which Ending is Canon in Ghost of Tsushima?
Ghost of Tsushima, an action-adventure game developed by Sucker Punch Productions, has been a topic of discussion among gamers and critics alike. The game’s ending, in particular, has sparked a debate about which choice is canon. In this article, we’ll delve into the matter and provide a comprehensive answer.
The Debate
Ghost of Tsushima’s ending is divided into two main choices: sparing Lord Shimura, Jin’s uncle, or killing him. The game’s narrative sets up the player to make this choice, and the consequences of each decision have sparked a heated debate. Some argue that sparing Shimura is the "honorable" choice, while others believe that killing him is the more "realistic" option.
The Game Director’s Take
In an interview, the game director, Jason Connell, shed some light on the matter. "We always intended for the player to make their own choice," Connell said. "We didn’t want to dictate what the ‘right’ answer was. We wanted players to feel like they had agency and could make their own decision." This statement suggests that neither ending is inherently "canon" and that the player’s choice is what matters most.
The Consequences
While the game director’s intention is clear, the consequences of each choice are significant. Sparing Shimura leads to a more positive outcome, with Shimura living on and Jin reflecting on the moral implications of his decision. Killing Shimura, on the other hand, results in a more dramatic and intense ending, with Jin’s uncle meeting a tragic fate.
The Impact on the Game’s Story
The player’s choice has no significant impact on the game’s story, apart from the immediate consequences of the ending. The game’s narrative is largely set in stone, with the player’s decision merely influencing the final scenes. This suggests that the game’s story is not dependent on the player’s choice, making both endings "canon" in their own way.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the ending of Ghost of Tsushima is not necessarily "canon" in the classical sense. The game’s director intentionally left the choice up to the player, allowing them to make their own decision. The consequences of each choice are significant, but the game’s story remains largely intact regardless of the player’s choice. Ultimately, the canon ending is the one that the player chooses for themselves.
Key Takeaways
- The game director intentionally left the choice up to the player, making both endings "canon" in their own way.
- The consequences of each choice are significant, but the game’s story remains largely intact regardless of the player’s choice.
- The player’s choice has no significant impact on the game’s story, apart from the immediate consequences of the ending.
- The canon ending is the one that the player chooses for themselves.
Comparison of Endings
| Ending | Consequences |
|---|---|
| Spare Shimura | Shimura lives on, Jin reflects on the moral implications of his decision |
| Kill Shimura | Shimura meets a tragic fate, Jin’s emotions are intense and dramatic |
By considering the game director’s intentions, the consequences of each choice, and the impact on the game’s story, we can conclude that both endings are "canon" in their own way. The player’s choice is what matters most, and the canon ending is the one that they choose for themselves.