Hokkaido (Ezo) in 1603 feels completely different from Tsushima. Mount Yōtei dominates the skyline no matter where you are. It’s a fresh setting that makes this feel like a proper sequel instead of just more of the same.
The combat got a major overhaul. Atsu has five weapons to work with - katana, dual katana, yari spear, kusarigama, and ōdachi. Each one plays differently and the weapon counter system rewards learning enemy patterns. Perfect parries are still the core mechanic and they feel amazing when you nail the timing. The new disarm move lets you steal weapons and use them against enemies, which never gets old.
The stealth improvements are what I’ve been waiting for. The grappling hook opens up so many approaches. Every settlement has multiple entry points and vertical routes. I spent entire missions ghosting through camps without drawing my sword once. Chain assassinations make clearing groups quietly feel smooth and deliberate.
The base game stays grounded. Atsu uses the onryō reputation as psychological warfare but there’s nothing actually supernatural happening. The Yōtei Six boss fights are tough and memorable without any magic involved. The Legends DLC coming in 2026 will add co-op with actual yokai encounters which sounds wild but that’s separate from the main experience.
The story balances grounded samurai drama with mythic elements. Character development throughout is solid.
Ezo looks stunning. The snow, the vibrant colors, the weather effects. All of it creates this atmosphere that’s distinct from the first game. The performance holds up even when things get hectic.
If you loved Tsushima, this is an easy recommendation. Sucker Punch kept what worked and improved everything else. The 50 hours flew by and it was a relatively straightforward Platinum, which is always appreciated.