Summary
While a direct sequel toGhost of Tsushimastarring its protagonist, Jin Sakai, might have been an ideal direction for the series to go in some respects, it is nevertheless headed the way of a full-blown franchise dedicated to the concept of the Ghost rather than one character, withGhost of Yoteileading the charge as the first game to lay down that road.Jin Sakaihas undoubtedly proven to be a noteworthy protagonist in many ways, driven by a past filled with regret and a future fueled by a strong desire to protect his loved ones at all costs, even if it means sacrificing his morals to do so.
Jin’s past, combined with his present and future, work together to make him a very complex and layered protagonist, which is largely why leaving him behind in exchange for the Ghost as a concept has been so difficult. Jin’s story inGhost of Tsushimashows the struggle between honoring tradition and doing what is necessary, in addition to other complex elements, such as his precarious relationship with his uncle, Lord Shimura. However, Jin’s story didn’t necessarily push every boundary of character development, andGhost of Yotei’s Atsu already looks primed to do just that, possibly making her an even more complex protagonist than her predecessor.
Atsu’s Complexity in Ghost of Yotei May Outshine Jin’s
Atsu’s Status as a Female Ronin Automatically Complicates Things for Her
The most obvious difference betweenGhost of Tsushima’s Jin andYotei’s Atsu is that the former is a male protagonist, whereas the latter is a female protagonist. This immediately sets Atsu apart from Jin and increases her complexity, as it offers an entirely different perspective on the rigid gender roles in feudal Japan.In 1603, whenGhost of Yoteiis set, women in samurai roles, known as “onna-musha,” certainly existed, but they were more the exception than the norm.
More often than not, women in feudal Japan filled defensive roles, tasked with protecting their homes and families while men went to war. Samurai women were also expected to prioritize domestic responsibilities, like managing their households, raising their children, and being a reliable support system for their husbands. In other words, Japanese society during theEdo Periodwas significantly patriarchal, with women at that time expected to be more submissive and modest, making martial prowess increasingly less appropriate for them.
In 1603, whenGhost of Yoteiis set, women in samurai roles, known as “onna-musha,” certainly existed, but they were more the exception than the norm.
In light of this, things may automatically be complicated forAtsu inGhost of Yoteimore than they were for Jin inGhost of Tsushima, depending on who she crosses paths with. It’s possible players might witness the struggles she goes through as a female warrior in a male-dominated society, and it could even directly affect gameplay. SinceGhost of Yoteihas been confirmed to prioritize player choice more thanGhost of Tsushimadid, perhaps players will be required to find creative ways to infiltrate relationships and gain the respect and loyalty of men who might not initially take Atsu seriously.
On top of being a female protagonist, Atsu is a ronin, which could also lead to increased complexity in her character. Unlike Jin, who is the last surviving member of Clan Sakai and therefore an important figure onTsushima Island, Atsu being a ronin means she is likely an outcast, stripped of the social structure and honor tied to the samurai code. While Jin was isolated for a time inGhost of Tsushima, Atsu’s isolation is likely to be far more prominent, meaning she may have to work much harder at forging relationships with others than Jin ever did.
Jin’s last name was effectively an open door for many of the relationships he formed duringGhost of Tsushima’s story — a luxury that Atsu doesn’t seem to have.
Atsu’s Story of Vengeance Suggests a More Layered Narrative
Something else that may add another layer of complexity to Atsu’s character inGhost of Yoteiis her quest for what Sucker punch says is one of “underdog vengeance.” Obviously, her role as a ronin in feudal Japan automatically makes her an underdog, but it is her quest for vengeance that may ultimately complicate things for her even more. Most vengeance stories are enveloped in moral ambiguity, as they are often depicted as morally gray acts of violence that are often not worth it in the end. AlthoughJin’s decision to become the Ghost inGhost of Tsushimawas considered morally gray for him, it was still for a noble purpose. Atsu’s quest for vengeance, on the other hand, may be anything but noble.
Atsu’s journey inGhost of Yoteilooks primed to challenge the narrative foundations laid by Jin Sakai inGhost of Tsushima, expanding the scope of what a Ghost can be. WhileJin’s story inGhost of Tsushimarevolved around a conflict between honor and necessity, Atsu’s narrative introduces layers of complexity tied to her identity as both a woman and a ronin, facing societal expectations, potential isolation, and the moral ambiguity of vengeance. This shift doesn’t just lay the groundwork for a protagonist who faces external battles, but also one whose internal struggles may outshine her predecessor’s in the end.
