Ankita
With the recent announcement of Ghost of Yotei, the successor to Sucker Punch’s 2020 smash Ghost of Tsushima, gamers will once again be able to immerse themselves in a magnificent open world rooted in Japan’s fabled history. Nonetheless, Ghost of Yotei differs significantly from its predecessor in a few key ways, such as a significant time jump from 1274 to 1603, a new protagonist, and a new setting. Ghost of Yotei is in the peculiar situation of not officially taking place in Japan but still having a very Japanese look, which is sure to thrill fans of historical Japanese settings.
Historical Context of Ezo
The area around Mount Yotei was not part of Japan, but belonged solely to the Ainu.
Which signifies the historical significance of Ezo as a land inhabited by the Ainu people long before Japanese colonization began, framing the game’s narrative within a context often overlooked in mainstream discussions.
“Mount Yotei was originally called Machineshiri by the Ainu people.” The title Ghost of Yotei features an intentional historical inaccuracy that serves to provoke thought about identity and representation, as it reflects a name that did not exist during the game’s setting.
Themes of Colonialism
“By 1604, the Matsumae clan imposed themselves as representatives of the Japanese people.” underscores the beginning of colonial dynamics in Hokkaido, suggesting that Ghost of Yotei may address themes of oppression and resistance faced by indigenous populations during this transformative period.
“The game has the potential to depict Ezo and its indigenous inhabitants as they were.”
This insight emphasizes the opportunity for Ghost of Yotei to authentically represent Ainu customs and traditions, moving beyond typical samurai tropes to explore a near-extinct culture.
“The fact that Ghost of Yotei is set in Hokkaido… encompasses the meaning of ‘ghost’ in many ways.” This perspective invites players to engage with complex cultural dialogues through gaming, illustrating how narratives can challenge conventional portrayals and foster understanding of marginalized histories.
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