Ghost of Yotei

Sucker Punch took everything from Ghost of Tsushima, moved it to Hokkaido, and turned the volume up. New protagonist Atsu is compelling, the world is breathtaking, and the combat is even sharper. It's hard to be cynical about something this polished.

The open world is enormous. Mount Yotei dominates the skyline like a constant reminder that you should be exploring instead of doing your fourth fox den. And you will do that fourth fox den, because this game knows how to make busywork feel good.

Combat adds a stance-switching system that makes every encounter feel like a puzzle. When it clicks, you feel untouchable. When it doesn't, you're mashing dodge like you're playing a rhythm game you didn't sign up for.

The story takes its time. This isn't an action movie plot. It's a slow burn about identity, duty, and what you owe a land that doesn't want you. Some people will love that. Some people will check their phone during cutscenes.

Photo mode is still absurdly good. Half my playtime was just standing on a hill watching leaves fall. That's not a joke. That's the review.