Summary
WhileGhost of Tsushimacertainly had a lot going for it in terms of gameplay and story, its standout feature was undoubtedly its open world. With its stunning visual design and immersive atmosphere,Ghost of Tsushimaoffered players an unprecedentedgaming experience in feudal Japan, complete with vibrant fields of flowers, dense forests, misty mountains, and golden sunlit meadows. Now,Ghost of Yoteiis set to build on the foundation of its predecessor with yet another breathtaking open world, though it will take place in the land of Ezo (modern-day Hokkaido) rather than on Tsushima Island.
It’s almost a given thatGhost of Yoteiwill feature an open world that is just as captivating (if not more so, since it is being developed for the PS5) asGhost of Tsushima. However,Ghost of Yoteimay need to go further than merely offering better graphics in its open world if it hopes to capture players in the same way thatGhost of Tsushimadid. As such, there are a few things that the next entry in theGhostfranchise can add to its open world to make it feel more alive than ever, with one notable element being an annual seasonal cycle — especially ifGhost of Yoteikeeps the wind mechanics of its predecessor, as wind plays a major role in seasonal changes.
Ghost of Yotei Should Feature an Annual Seasonal Cycle
An Annual Seasonal Cycle Would Make Ghost of Yotei’s World Even More Immersive
One major thing thatGhost of Tsushimalacked was an annual cycle that allowed its world to experience all four seasons. Fortunately, its environments were varied enough that this didn’t matter too much, but there is no denying the impact that an annual cycle could have had on its open world. The presence of an annualcycle in a gameworld can immediately make it feel like it is actually moving through time and is therefore living and breathing, which is exactly whatGhost of Tsushimawas going for in the first place.
EvenAssassin’s Creed Shadows, which is often regarded as an imitation ofGhost of Tsushima, has an annual cycle, so it may not make sense forGhost of Yoteito exclude one at this point.
In light of that, an annual cycle could only helpGhost of Yoteito feel more immersive and alive. If players were able to experience all four seasons in the game, especially if those seasons impacted gameplay in some way,Ghost of Yotei’s open worldcould be that much closer to becoming the next open-world standard. The only issue, perhaps, would be the game’s concept of time. After all, if the seasons were to change for an entire year inGhost of Yotei, it might not make sense for time to essentially stand still, especially when historical accuracy is at stake. Nevertheless, consideringGhost of Tsushima’s emphasis on movement,Ghost of Yoteicould “move” even more with an annual cycle.
Ghost of Yotei Could Feature Quests Tied to Certain Seasons
To complement an annual cycle,Ghost of Yoteicould even feature quests tied to certain seasons. This would prompt players to pay more attention to the game’s annual cycle, and it would also potentially increaseGhost of Yotei’s immersionin the process. Perhaps certain seasons inGhost of Yoteimight see specific wildlife emerge, or there might be seasons that make survival more difficult for Ezo’s inhabitants. Enemies might be more prevalent during specific seasons as well. There is certainly a lotGhost of Yoteicould do with an annual cycle gameplay-wise.
If players were able to experience all four seasons in the game, especially if those seasons impacted gameplay in some way,Ghost of Yotei’s open world could be that much closer to becoming the next open-world standard.
Ultimately, an annual cycle inGhost of Yoteicould be a defining feature that sets it apart from its predecessor, pushing itsopen world closer to true immersion. By allowing players to witness and adapt to the changing seasons, the game could offer an open world that feels truly alive. Not only would this enhance the visual spectacle of Ezo’s landscapes, but it could also introduce new gameplay opportunities, from seasonal quests to shifting environmental challenges.
