Ghost of Yōtei Studio Head Says Katanas, Japan Are Integral to Franchise’s Essence

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Following the success of Ghost of Tsushima and the promising reviews for the forthcoming Ghost of Yōtei, Sucker Punch Productions has emphasized that a Japanese setting is now central to the games’ identity. In a conversation with Ungeek, studio leader Brian Fleming explained that he doesn’t foresee future installments in the series being set anywhere other than Japan.

Fleming feels that using a katana is central to what defines the Ghost series. Because of this, it’s unlikely Sucker Punch Productions will create a new game in the series set in a location like, say, feudal Europe.

For me, the heart of Ghost is all about playing someone who’s a master with a katana – it’s just fundamental to the experience, you know? As Fleming explained, I can’t really picture a Ghost game taking place in, like, feudal Europe. It just wouldn’t *feel* right. There are tons of games already set there, but that’s not what a Ghost game is supposed to be about.

Beyond the significance of Japanese weaponry, Fleming also pointed out that the inherent beauty of Japan is crucial to the franchise’s identity. Consequently, future installments will likely continue to feature katana combat within an open-world setting inspired by Japan. Although the specific time period may vary, these two central elements – Japanese swordsmanship and a Japanese setting – will probably remain consistent. This ensures the franchise stays true to its roots.

“The beautiful landscapes of Japan are central to what makes a Ghost game special,” he explained. “I shared this thought while speaking [at Tokyo Game Show], and I believe the Japanese fans really connected with it. That’s how we envision the game – it will always be an open-world adventure focused on katana combat.”

We can certainly shift the timeframe or look at different locations, but I believe there are certain limits we likely won’t go beyond.

Ghost of Yōtei will be available on PS5 later this week – specifically on October 2nd. Before the game launches, Sucker Punch Productions has shared several details about it. In addition to many trailers – including the launch trailer released last week here – art director Joanna Wang has discussed the game’s development and highlighted the significance of the colour yellow.

During an interview, Wang explained that choosing yellow as the main colour scheme was central to the story’s themes and the character of Atsu. She shared how the colour symbolizes things she lost sixteen years ago while bound to a ginkgo tree, and how it later came to represent her aspirations.

“Sixteen years ago, she lost absolutely everything – her family and her home,” she said. “She was bound to a ginkgo tree and left for dead. As many yellow leaves fell from the tree, it eventually caught fire. The yellow color you first see in the game symbolizes her destroyed hometown and is a recurring theme throughout her journey.”

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2025-09-29 17:12