“Ghost of Tsushima,” developed by Sucker Punch Productions and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, has captivated gamers worldwide with its stunning visuals, intricate storytelling, and immersive gameplay. As an open-world action-adventure game set in feudal Japan, players take on the role of Jin Sakai, a samurai warrior defending Tsushima Island during the first Mongol invasion of Japan. If you’ve recently purchased “Ghost of Tsushima” on G2A and are diving into its world, this guide offers essential gameplay tips and tricks to enhance your experience and help you master the art of the samurai.
Getting Started: The Basics
1. Understand the Combat System
The “Ghost of Tsushima” combat system is intricate and rewarding. Familiarize yourself with the basic controls, including light and heavy attacks, parrying, and dodging. Mastering these fundamental moves is crucial for survival, especially when facing multiple enemies.
2. Use Stances Effectively
Jin Sakai can switch between four combat stances, each suited for different enemy types:
Stone Stance: Effective against sworders.
- Water Stance: Ideal for dealing with shielded enemies.
- Wind Stance: Best used against spearmen.
- Moon Stance: Great for taking down brutes.
Switching stances during combat can give you a significant advantage, allowing you to tackle various foes more efficiently.
3. Stealth is Your Ally
While confrontation is thrilling, stealth can be equally effective. Use tall grass to hide from enemies, utilise your bow for silent takedowns, and employ distractions like wind chimes to lure foes into traps. Assassination moves can quickly thin out enemy numbers without alerting others.
Exploring Tsushima
4. Follow the Guiding Wind
The Guiding Wind is an innovative navigation tool in “Ghost of Tsushima.” Instead of a traditional waypoint system, the wind guides you to your objectives. Swipe up on the touchpad to summon the wind and stay on course. Upgrading this ability can lead you to hidden locations and collectables.
5. Visit Hot Springs
Hot Springs scattered across Tsushima Island offer more than just scenic beauty. Each visit increases Jin’s maximum health, making him more resilient in battles. Take the time to find and relax in these tranquil spots.
6. Collect Bamboo Strikes
Bamboo Strikes are mini-games that test your reflexes and precision. Completing these challenges increases your Resolve, essential for performing special combat techniques and healing during fights.
Upgrading Jin Sakai
7. Skill Tree Prioritization
As you progress, Jin will earn Technique Points that can be spent on various skills. Prioritize skills that suit your playstyle. If you prefer stealth, invest in the Ghost techniques. For those who enjoy combat, the Samurai techniques will be more beneficial.
8. Armor and Charms
Different armors provide unique benefits and can be tailored to your preferred playstyle. Samurai Clan Armor increases your survivability in direct combat, while Ronin Attire enhances your stealth abilities. Additionally, equipping charms can further boost your abilities, such as increased melee damage or improved health regeneration.
9. Upgrade Your Gear
Regularly visit Trappers and Swordsmiths to upgrade your gear. Improving your katana and bow can make a significant difference in combat efficiency. Don’t forget to fund these upgrades by gathering resources like supplies, predator hides, and bamboo.
Engaging in Side Activities
10. Complete Side Quests
Side quests, known as Tales of Tsushima, offer more than just additional gameplay hours. They provide valuable rewards, including new armour sets, charms, and increased legend status. Plus, they often delve into the rich backstory of Tsushima and its inhabitants.
11. Liberate Mongol Outposts
Liberating outposts across Tsushima Island weakened the Mongol presence and rewarded you with valuable resources and map information. These outposts also offer opportunities to practice and refine your combat and stealth skills.
12. Participate in Mythic Tales
Mythic Tales are unique quests that tell legendary stories of Tsushima and reward you with powerful abilities or equipment. These tales often involve epic battles and challenging objectives, making them a must-do for any serious player.
Advanced Combat Techniques
13. Perfect Parry and Dodge
Timing is everything in combat. Perfect parries block incoming attacks and stagger enemies, leaving them vulnerable to counterattacks. Similarly, perfect dodges allow you to evade and quickly retaliate. Practice these techniques to become a formidable opponent.
14. Use Ghost Weapons Wisely
Ghost Weapons, such as kunai, smoke bombs, and sticky bombs, can turn the tide of battle. Use them strategically to disrupt enemy formations, create openings, and gain the upper hand. Upgrading these weapons can significantly enhance their effectiveness.
15. Maximize Resolve Usage
Resolve is a vital resource used for healing and performing powerful combat techniques. Keep an eye on your Resolve meter and use it judiciously. Balancing healing and executing special moves can be the key to victory in tough battles.
Immersing Yourself in the World
16. Photo Mode
“Ghost of Tsushima” boasts a stunning visual design. Take advantage of the game’s Photo Mode to capture breathtaking landscapes, intense combat moments, and serene scenes. Share your favourite shots with the community to showcase your journey through Tsushima.
17. Explore Every Nook and Cranny
Tsushima Island has hidden secrets, from collectable artefacts and records to shrines and hidden altars. Take the time to explore and uncover the island’s many mysteries. These discoveries often reward you with additional backstory and valuable items.
18. Immerse in the Culture
Embrace the cultural elements within the game, such as composing haiku, honouring Shinto shrines, and following foxes to Inari shrines. These activities deepen your connection to the world and often provide tangible gameplay benefits.
Conclusion
“Ghost of Tsushima” is a masterpiece that offers a deeply immersive and rewarding experience. By following these gameplay tips and tricks, you’ll be well-equipped to face the challenges of Tsushima Island. Whether you prefer the path of the honourable samurai or the cunning ghost, mastering the game’s mechanics and exploring its vast world will provide countless hours of enjoyment. If you purchased the game on G2A, make the most of your adventure and savour every moment in this beautifully crafted epic.