If you own the original, the main draw of the director's cut is the Iki Island expansion ($20 value at launch), and PS5 performance features (not possible on PS4). If you get the PS5 upgrade you get a more enhanced experience due to DuelSense controller and 4k graphics, but cost $10 more.
--What you get on disc (no DLC codes) for Director’s Cut:
Full base game. Will post my original launch review at the end.
Legends online (free multiplayer dlc for base game),
All dlc from ‘collector’s edition’ or ‘digital deluxe edition’ of base game (aside from PS4 avatar): mini art book, 1 technique point, charm of Hachiman’s favor, Hero of Tsushima Skin Set (Golden Mask, Sword Kit, Horse, Saddle), and director’s commentary video.
Iki Island expansion,
PS5 features (If you get PS5 version)
--Pricing (MSRP at launch):
If you do not own the original, it’s an excellent deal at $70 for PS5 version. Everything is on disc.
If you do not own the original, PS4 version is $60. Everything on disc except PS5 content (will go over later)
If you own the original; the Director’s cut digital upgrade to PS5 is $30
If you own the original; the Director’s cut digital upgrade for PS4 is $20. (You can upgrade to PS5 Director’s cut later if you want for $10)
--What’s New:
1. Iki’s island.
You can play from your original save file with all upgrades intact.
If you start from scratch, you have to reach a certain point in Act 2 main campaign to access the island content
I’d say it’s more of the base game, but with more quality content in less space and gameplay time than the base game
7-15 hours depending on your build/difficulty level selected when you enter the island.
If you played the base game it’s like one of the ‘Tales of Tsushima’ side quest series, but a bit longer.
For essentially $20 dlc, I’d say it’s a bit much. But you can also consider it a tip also for the excellent Legends DLC. If you’re starting new and never own the orginal then it’s already part of the package
-Story: Jin goes to Iki island to liberate it from the Scarecrow (Batman villain)…I mean a witch named Eagle, before she invades Tsushima. If Jin (the main character) is replaced by Batman, and Eagle with Scarecrow in a modern setting, you won’t tell the difference in terms of plot
Plot and story progression is really good although felt like it’s done before in a Batman comic.
-New activities: Flute/tilt control mini-game, Archery challenge, and Dueling Ring
-New PSN trophies to collect
-New armor and charms
-Able to run over enemies with your horse. Uses resolve
-Horse able to carry additional inventory for you
-New enemy types:
Shamans: give buffs enemies. Best to locate and take them out first
Enemies now carry multiple weapons, change stances, more of them on screen, and overall smarter in combat than those on the main island
2. For PS5 version you get:
4K graphics. Target 60 fps. Won’t notice a major difference compared to PS4 unless you have them side-by-side
Lip sync for Japanese voice-over. Don’t know why this isn’t in base game
Controller speaker (when not using headphones) for inner monologue, perfect parry sound, wind blowing
Haptic feedback when you parry/dodge, wind, swing on grapple hook, horse gallop, shaman shouting, during cutscenes, etc
Adaptive triggers when using bow, use grapple hook
3D audio (from compatible headphones)
Less than 1 second loading screen for fast travel and game over transition
If you have ps4 save data, you can transfer it to PS5
PS5 version has its own trophy list. All PS4 trophies from save data transfer will auto transfer over to PS5. May have to mess around with save file upload, game data download, and patch download for all trophies to pop up.
Overall, totally worth it if you never own the game before as this is the definitive version of the game with all DLC on one disc
If you own the original, you have to decided if the Iki expansion is worth $20, and PS5 features for $10 digitally
==
My original review of base game at launch:
Samurai Open World
First impression is that it's like a fusion between 'Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice' without the harsh difficulty + better story, and open world Ubisoft games (Assassins Creed, Far Cry, Watch Dogs), but as you play more you find out that the game moves the open world genre forward through it's presentation and gameplay mechanics.
Over arching story is better than Sekiro in my opinion as it's more grounded in reality. Flow is really good without having to retry multiple times/deep learning curves makes for a smoother story telling experience. Story lean toward historical accuracy and samurai films than mythical/spiritual themes
As an open world game, one of the best in terms of exploration, doesn't' string you along by pointing you where to go like most open world games
-Story/Plot:
The mongols take over Tsushima Island lead by Khotun Khan. You (Jin) have to retake territory and defeat Khotun Khan. Jin was a honorable samurai pre invasion facing enemies head on. Being outnumbered by powerful enemies, he must adapt and do cheap tactics like stealth and ambushes. You see Jin's inner conflict when he has conversations with other characters as he becomes samurai batma...the Ghost of Tsushima
-Presentation
Graphics is really good for an open world game. One of the best looking games on the PS4. Foliage, falling leaves, and fog are especially noticeable. Draw distance is really good, no pop in. Something is always going on in the environment whether it's leaves falling, flowers/grass blowing in the wind or fire embers floating in the air.
The world is not as expansive as like an Assassin's Creed game for example, but the space it uses don't feel wasted or copy/pasted. Each area has it's own biome and color theme attached to them.
There's a Kurosawa mode in the game which turns on a black-and-white filter similar to old samurai films. Gives the game more cinematic flare, but best reserved on second playthrough as it hinders gameplay
Game has 3D audio. If you have a setup that supports it, can have an advantage in battle and gives a more immersive experience. If you play in Kurosawa mode; the 3D audio is turned off, and you get a tinny stereo sound to the audio
Character performances are excellent (although over dramatic at times), but the lip syncing is a bit off. Didn't break the immersion for me though as there are a lot of great emotional cinematic scenes and set pieces
--Gameplay:
Main weapon is your katana. Strike, block, dodge and switch stances. Timing and knowing enemy attack animations are important as a missed attack leaves you open. Few strikes from a strong enemy will leave you with a game over screen. Not a button mashing game, as you have to be patient at times with the enemy.
As you progress, you gain consumable weapons like arrows, throwing knifes, and variety of bombs. The game consider this Ghost techniques/tools (thus the name of the game) as you're using weapons/tools outside of traditional samurai combat
By defeating enemies you increase your resolve meter which you can use to heal or do special attack
There's no lock-on system. When crowded by enemies can be hard to focus on who you're attacking especially when you need to dodge an incoming attack inside a tight area like in a building/hut. Enemies don't all attack at the same time similar to Assassin's Creed or Arkham Batman games where they attack one at a time (most of the time), so there's lee way there. Since there is no lock-on, the character movement does feel more fluid and cinematic, so it got that going for it.
Take advantage of stances. Some stances are more effective than others depending on enemy type. You can switch stances on the fly where the game gives off a brief slow motion indicator
There is stealth in the game, but it's very lenient. You don't need to worry about enemies' bodies after you take them out. Once you take someone out without being spotted, you're practically safe. Assassin animations are way better than anything i've seen in the Assassin's Creed series.
Boss battles have the camera hone in on two combatant making for a more epic presentation .
Load times are really fast, even for fast travel. Game over loading screen is masked by death animations
There's no large objective indicator or mini map, rather you follow where the wind blows (after you set an objective marker on your map). If you're having a hard time, just use the directional pad and it makes the wind more apparent. Makes for a more immersive experience as you focus on the environment around you rather than event markers on your HUD. Gives off a sense of destiny as the world draws you to where you need to be.
Camera is a mixed bag. Sometimes it's good, other times if you're in a confined area, the wall can block your view. Best not to fight indoors when possible
Main mission and side missions (character, side, and mystic quests) stack. Can take them all on at once, no need to tackle them one at a time. Some side missions can be boring from a gameplay perspective at times as they focus on conversations while walking with NPC to draw out the lore, or have you do fetch quests that feel like doesn't go anywhere. Doing these do help your character as they unlock new weapons and abilities
There's no real level up system, rather exploration just give you more tools/perks (easier aiming, larger stagger on enemies), and upgrades (bigger time window on moves, larger draw distance, etc) to defeat enemies with. Able to collect materials to upgrade/craft weapons damage/capacity and armor effectiveness.
There are also different armor you can equip that serve different purposes: one can be one combat based and other stealth based.
There are charms you can collect which at like materia slots in Final Fantasy VII remake, giving you passive abilities and/or additional stats
You can stick to the main story if you want, but you'll be missing out on hidden lore and new gameplay mechanics
Main campaign will last you 25-30 hours depending on how many side missions you plan to take on.
Very fun game overall. One of the best, if not the best immersive open world games I've played. Along with Last of Us Part 2, great first party game to end the PS4 era with as we move onto the PS5
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From the manufacturer
Beyond war, ancient beauty endures
Roam vast countryside and expansive terrain to encounter rich characters, discover ancient landmarks and uncover the hidden beauty of Tsushima in this open-world action adventure.
The rise of the Ghost
Seek support from old friends and new unlikely allies to reclaim Tsushima. Break away from tradition, become a new kind of warrior, and protect what’s left of your home and people at all costs.
Mud, blood and steel
Challenge opponents with your katana for an immersive samurai combat experience, master the bow to eliminate distant threats and develop stealth tactics to disorient and ambush enemies.
Become Legends together
Play with friends or via online matchmaking in a series of two-player story missions or four-player wave-based survival missions in the Legends online co-op*** mode inspired by Japanese folk tales and mythology.
*** PlayStation Plus membership required for online multiplayer. PlayStation Plus membership is subject to a recurring subscription fee taken automatically until cancellation. Age restrictions apply. Full terms: play.st/PSPlusTerms.
A whole new island to explore
Travel to Iki Island to investigate rumors of a Mongol presence in a brand-new story with deeply personal stakes.
Customer reviews
If you own the original, the main draw of the director's cut is the Iki Island expansion ($20 value at launch), and PS5 performance features (not possible on PS4). If you get the PS5 upgrade you get a more enhanced experience due to DuelSense controller and 4k graphics, but cost $10 more.--What you get on disc (no DLC codes) for Director’s Cut:Full base game. Will post my original launch review at the end.Legends online (free multiplayer dlc for base game),All dlc from ‘collector’s edition’ or ‘digital deluxe edition’ of base game (aside from PS4 avatar): mini art book, 1 technique point, charm of Hachiman’s favor, Hero of Tsushima Skin Set (Golden Mask, Sword Kit, Horse, Saddle), and director’s commentary video.Iki Island expansion,PS5 features (If you get PS5 version)--Pricing (MSRP at launch):If you do not own the original, it’s an excellent deal at $70 for PS5 version. Everything is on disc.If you do not own the original, PS4 version is $60. Everything on disc except PS5 content (will go over later)If you own the original; the Director’s cut digital upgrade to PS5 is $30If you own the original; the Director’s cut digital upgrade for PS4 is $20. (You can upgrade to PS5 Director’s cut later if you want for $10)--What’s New:1. Iki’s island.You can play from your original save file with all upgrades intact.If you start from scratch, you have to reach a certain point in Act 2 main campaign to access the island contentI’d say it’s more of the base game, but with more quality content in less space and gameplay time than the base game7-15 hours depending on your build/difficulty level selected when you enter the island.If you played the base game it’s like one of the ‘Tales of Tsushima’ side quest series, but a bit longer.For essentially $20 dlc, I’d say it’s a bit much. But you can also consider it a tip also for the excellent Legends DLC. If you’re starting new and never own the orginal then it’s already part of the package-Story: Jin goes to Iki island to liberate it from the Scarecrow (Batman villain)…I mean a witch named Eagle, before she invades Tsushima. If Jin (the main character) is replaced by Batman, and Eagle with Scarecrow in a modern setting, you won’t tell the difference in terms of plotPlot and story progression is really good although felt like it’s done before in a Batman comic.-New activities: Flute/tilt control mini-game, Archery challenge, and Dueling Ring-New PSN trophies to collect-New armor and charms-Able to run over enemies with your horse. Uses resolve-Horse able to carry additional inventory for you-New enemy types:Shamans: give buffs enemies. Best to locate and take them out firstEnemies now carry multiple weapons, change stances, more of them on screen, and overall smarter in combat than those on the main island2. For PS5 version you get:4K graphics. Target 60 fps. Won’t notice a major difference compared to PS4 unless you have them side-by-sideLip sync for Japanese voice-over. Don’t know why this isn’t in base gameController speaker (when not using headphones) for inner monologue, perfect parry sound, wind blowingHaptic feedback when you parry/dodge, wind, swing on grapple hook, horse gallop, shaman shouting, during cutscenes, etcAdaptive triggers when using bow, use grapple hook3D audio (from compatible headphones)Less than 1 second loading screen for fast travel and game over transitionIf you have ps4 save data, you can transfer it to PS5PS5 version has its own trophy list. All PS4 trophies from save data transfer will auto transfer over to PS5. May have to mess around with save file upload, game data download, and patch download for all trophies to pop up.Overall, totally worth it if you never own the game before as this is the definitive version of the game with all DLC on one discIf you own the original, you have to decided if the Iki expansion is worth $20, and PS5 features for $10 digitally==My original review of base game at launch:Samurai Open WorldFirst impression is that it's like a fusion between 'Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice' without the harsh difficulty + better story, and open world Ubisoft games (Assassins Creed, Far Cry, Watch Dogs), but as you play more you find out that the game moves the open world genre forward through it's presentation and gameplay mechanics.Over arching story is better than Sekiro in my opinion as it's more grounded in reality. Flow is really good without having to retry multiple times/deep learning curves makes for a smoother story telling experience. Story lean toward historical accuracy and samurai films than mythical/spiritual themesAs an open world game, one of the best in terms of exploration, doesn't' string you along by pointing you where to go like most open world games-Story/Plot:The mongols take over Tsushima Island lead by Khotun Khan. You (Jin) have to retake territory and defeat Khotun Khan. Jin was a honorable samurai pre invasion facing enemies head on. Being outnumbered by powerful enemies, he must adapt and do cheap tactics like stealth and ambushes. You see Jin's inner conflict when he has conversations with other characters as he becomes samurai batma...the Ghost of Tsushima-PresentationGraphics is really good for an open world game. One of the best looking games on the PS4. Foliage, falling leaves, and fog are especially noticeable. Draw distance is really good, no pop in. Something is always going on in the environment whether it's leaves falling, flowers/grass blowing in the wind or fire embers floating in the air.The world is not as expansive as like an Assassin's Creed game for example, but the space it uses don't feel wasted or copy/pasted. Each area has it's own biome and color theme attached to them.There's a Kurosawa mode in the game which turns on a black-and-white filter similar to old samurai films. Gives the game more cinematic flare, but best reserved on second playthrough as it hinders gameplayGame has 3D audio. If you have a setup that supports it, can have an advantage in battle and gives a more immersive experience. If you play in Kurosawa mode; the 3D audio is turned off, and you get a tinny stereo sound to the audioCharacter performances are excellent (although over dramatic at times), but the lip syncing is a bit off. Didn't break the immersion for me though as there are a lot of great emotional cinematic scenes and set pieces--Gameplay:Main weapon is your katana. Strike, block, dodge and switch stances. Timing and knowing enemy attack animations are important as a missed attack leaves you open. Few strikes from a strong enemy will leave you with a game over screen. Not a button mashing game, as you have to be patient at times with the enemy.As you progress, you gain consumable weapons like arrows, throwing knifes, and variety of bombs. The game consider this Ghost techniques/tools (thus the name of the game) as you're using weapons/tools outside of traditional samurai combatBy defeating enemies you increase your resolve meter which you can use to heal or do special attackThere's no lock-on system. When crowded by enemies can be hard to focus on who you're attacking especially when you need to dodge an incoming attack inside a tight area like in a building/hut. Enemies don't all attack at the same time similar to Assassin's Creed or Arkham Batman games where they attack one at a time (most of the time), so there's lee way there. Since there is no lock-on, the character movement does feel more fluid and cinematic, so it got that going for it.Take advantage of stances. Some stances are more effective than others depending on enemy type. You can switch stances on the fly where the game gives off a brief slow motion indicatorThere is stealth in the game, but it's very lenient. You don't need to worry about enemies' bodies after you take them out. Once you take someone out without being spotted, you're practically safe. Assassin animations are way better than anything i've seen in the Assassin's Creed series.Boss battles have the camera hone in on two combatant making for a more epic presentation .Load times are really fast, even for fast travel. Game over loading screen is masked by death animationsThere's no large objective indicator or mini map, rather you follow where the wind blows (after you set an objective marker on your map). If you're having a hard time, just use the directional pad and it makes the wind more apparent. Makes for a more immersive experience as you focus on the environment around you rather than event markers on your HUD. Gives off a sense of destiny as the world draws you to where you need to be.Camera is a mixed bag. Sometimes it's good, other times if you're in a confined area, the wall can block your view. Best not to fight indoors when possibleMain mission and side missions (character, side, and mystic quests) stack. Can take them all on at once, no need to tackle them one at a time. Some side missions can be boring from a gameplay perspective at times as they focus on conversations while walking with NPC to draw out the lore, or have you do fetch quests that feel like doesn't go anywhere. Doing these do help your character as they unlock new weapons and abilitiesThere's no real level up system, rather exploration just give you more tools/perks (easier aiming, larger stagger on enemies), and upgrades (bigger time window on moves, larger draw distance, etc) to defeat enemies with. Able to collect materials to upgrade/craft weapons damage/capacity and armor effectiveness.There are also different armor you can equip that serve different purposes: one can be one combat based and other stealth based.There are charms you can collect which at like materia slots in Final Fantasy VII remake, giving you passive abilities and/or additional statsYou can stick to the main story if you want, but you'll be missing out on hidden lore and new gameplay mechanicsMain campaign will last you 25-30 hours depending on how many side missions you plan to take on.Very fun game overall. One of the best, if not the best immersive open world games I've played. Along with Last of Us Part 2, great first party game to end the PS4 era with as we move onto the PS5
Images in this review
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Reviewed in the United States on August 28, 2021
Platform For Display: PlayStation 4
If you own the original, the main draw of the director's cut is the Iki Island expansion ($20 value at launch), and PS5 performance features (not possible on PS4). If you get the PS5 upgrade you get a more enhanced experience due to DuelSense controller and 4k graphics, but cost $10 more.
--What you get on disc (no DLC codes) for Director’s Cut:
Full base game. Will post my original launch review at the end.
Legends online (free multiplayer dlc for base game),
All dlc from ‘collector’s edition’ or ‘digital deluxe edition’ of base game (aside from PS4 avatar): mini art book, 1 technique point, charm of Hachiman’s favor, Hero of Tsushima Skin Set (Golden Mask, Sword Kit, Horse, Saddle), and director’s commentary video.
Iki Island expansion,
PS5 features (If you get PS5 version)
--Pricing (MSRP at launch):
If you do not own the original, it’s an excellent deal at $70 for PS5 version. Everything is on disc.
If you do not own the original, PS4 version is $60. Everything on disc except PS5 content (will go over later)
If you own the original; the Director’s cut digital upgrade to PS5 is $30
If you own the original; the Director’s cut digital upgrade for PS4 is $20. (You can upgrade to PS5 Director’s cut later if you want for $10)
--What’s New:
1. Iki’s island.
You can play from your original save file with all upgrades intact.
If you start from scratch, you have to reach a certain point in Act 2 main campaign to access the island content
I’d say it’s more of the base game, but with more quality content in less space and gameplay time than the base game
7-15 hours depending on your build/difficulty level selected when you enter the island.
If you played the base game it’s like one of the ‘Tales of Tsushima’ side quest series, but a bit longer.
For essentially $20 dlc, I’d say it’s a bit much. But you can also consider it a tip also for the excellent Legends DLC. If you’re starting new and never own the orginal then it’s already part of the package
-Story: Jin goes to Iki island to liberate it from the Scarecrow (Batman villain)…I mean a witch named Eagle, before she invades Tsushima. If Jin (the main character) is replaced by Batman, and Eagle with Scarecrow in a modern setting, you won’t tell the difference in terms of plot
Plot and story progression is really good although felt like it’s done before in a Batman comic.
-New activities: Flute/tilt control mini-game, Archery challenge, and Dueling Ring
-New PSN trophies to collect
-New armor and charms
-Able to run over enemies with your horse. Uses resolve
-Horse able to carry additional inventory for you
-New enemy types:
Shamans: give buffs enemies. Best to locate and take them out first
Enemies now carry multiple weapons, change stances, more of them on screen, and overall smarter in combat than those on the main island
2. For PS5 version you get:
4K graphics. Target 60 fps. Won’t notice a major difference compared to PS4 unless you have them side-by-side
Lip sync for Japanese voice-over. Don’t know why this isn’t in base game
Controller speaker (when not using headphones) for inner monologue, perfect parry sound, wind blowing
Haptic feedback when you parry/dodge, wind, swing on grapple hook, horse gallop, shaman shouting, during cutscenes, etc
Adaptive triggers when using bow, use grapple hook
3D audio (from compatible headphones)
Less than 1 second loading screen for fast travel and game over transition
If you have ps4 save data, you can transfer it to PS5
PS5 version has its own trophy list. All PS4 trophies from save data transfer will auto transfer over to PS5. May have to mess around with save file upload, game data download, and patch download for all trophies to pop up.
Overall, totally worth it if you never own the game before as this is the definitive version of the game with all DLC on one disc
If you own the original, you have to decided if the Iki expansion is worth $20, and PS5 features for $10 digitally
==
My original review of base game at launch:
Samurai Open World
First impression is that it's like a fusion between 'Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice' without the harsh difficulty + better story, and open world Ubisoft games (Assassins Creed, Far Cry, Watch Dogs), but as you play more you find out that the game moves the open world genre forward through it's presentation and gameplay mechanics.
Over arching story is better than Sekiro in my opinion as it's more grounded in reality. Flow is really good without having to retry multiple times/deep learning curves makes for a smoother story telling experience. Story lean toward historical accuracy and samurai films than mythical/spiritual themes
As an open world game, one of the best in terms of exploration, doesn't' string you along by pointing you where to go like most open world games
-Story/Plot:
The mongols take over Tsushima Island lead by Khotun Khan. You (Jin) have to retake territory and defeat Khotun Khan. Jin was a honorable samurai pre invasion facing enemies head on. Being outnumbered by powerful enemies, he must adapt and do cheap tactics like stealth and ambushes. You see Jin's inner conflict when he has conversations with other characters as he becomes samurai batma...the Ghost of Tsushima
-Presentation
Graphics is really good for an open world game. One of the best looking games on the PS4. Foliage, falling leaves, and fog are especially noticeable. Draw distance is really good, no pop in. Something is always going on in the environment whether it's leaves falling, flowers/grass blowing in the wind or fire embers floating in the air.
The world is not as expansive as like an Assassin's Creed game for example, but the space it uses don't feel wasted or copy/pasted. Each area has it's own biome and color theme attached to them.
There's a Kurosawa mode in the game which turns on a black-and-white filter similar to old samurai films. Gives the game more cinematic flare, but best reserved on second playthrough as it hinders gameplay
Game has 3D audio. If you have a setup that supports it, can have an advantage in battle and gives a more immersive experience. If you play in Kurosawa mode; the 3D audio is turned off, and you get a tinny stereo sound to the audio
Character performances are excellent (although over dramatic at times), but the lip syncing is a bit off. Didn't break the immersion for me though as there are a lot of great emotional cinematic scenes and set pieces
--Gameplay:
Main weapon is your katana. Strike, block, dodge and switch stances. Timing and knowing enemy attack animations are important as a missed attack leaves you open. Few strikes from a strong enemy will leave you with a game over screen. Not a button mashing game, as you have to be patient at times with the enemy.
As you progress, you gain consumable weapons like arrows, throwing knifes, and variety of bombs. The game consider this Ghost techniques/tools (thus the name of the game) as you're using weapons/tools outside of traditional samurai combat
By defeating enemies you increase your resolve meter which you can use to heal or do special attack
There's no lock-on system. When crowded by enemies can be hard to focus on who you're attacking especially when you need to dodge an incoming attack inside a tight area like in a building/hut. Enemies don't all attack at the same time similar to Assassin's Creed or Arkham Batman games where they attack one at a time (most of the time), so there's lee way there. Since there is no lock-on, the character movement does feel more fluid and cinematic, so it got that going for it.
Take advantage of stances. Some stances are more effective than others depending on enemy type. You can switch stances on the fly where the game gives off a brief slow motion indicator
There is stealth in the game, but it's very lenient. You don't need to worry about enemies' bodies after you take them out. Once you take someone out without being spotted, you're practically safe. Assassin animations are way better than anything i've seen in the Assassin's Creed series.
Boss battles have the camera hone in on two combatant making for a more epic presentation .
Load times are really fast, even for fast travel. Game over loading screen is masked by death animations
There's no large objective indicator or mini map, rather you follow where the wind blows (after you set an objective marker on your map). If you're having a hard time, just use the directional pad and it makes the wind more apparent. Makes for a more immersive experience as you focus on the environment around you rather than event markers on your HUD. Gives off a sense of destiny as the world draws you to where you need to be.
Camera is a mixed bag. Sometimes it's good, other times if you're in a confined area, the wall can block your view. Best not to fight indoors when possible
Main mission and side missions (character, side, and mystic quests) stack. Can take them all on at once, no need to tackle them one at a time. Some side missions can be boring from a gameplay perspective at times as they focus on conversations while walking with NPC to draw out the lore, or have you do fetch quests that feel like doesn't go anywhere. Doing these do help your character as they unlock new weapons and abilities
There's no real level up system, rather exploration just give you more tools/perks (easier aiming, larger stagger on enemies), and upgrades (bigger time window on moves, larger draw distance, etc) to defeat enemies with. Able to collect materials to upgrade/craft weapons damage/capacity and armor effectiveness.
There are also different armor you can equip that serve different purposes: one can be one combat based and other stealth based.
There are charms you can collect which at like materia slots in Final Fantasy VII remake, giving you passive abilities and/or additional stats
You can stick to the main story if you want, but you'll be missing out on hidden lore and new gameplay mechanics
Main campaign will last you 25-30 hours depending on how many side missions you plan to take on.
Very fun game overall. One of the best, if not the best immersive open world games I've played. Along with Last of Us Part 2, great first party game to end the PS4 era with as we move onto the PS5
--What you get on disc (no DLC codes) for Director’s Cut:
Full base game. Will post my original launch review at the end.
Legends online (free multiplayer dlc for base game),
All dlc from ‘collector’s edition’ or ‘digital deluxe edition’ of base game (aside from PS4 avatar): mini art book, 1 technique point, charm of Hachiman’s favor, Hero of Tsushima Skin Set (Golden Mask, Sword Kit, Horse, Saddle), and director’s commentary video.
Iki Island expansion,
PS5 features (If you get PS5 version)
--Pricing (MSRP at launch):
If you do not own the original, it’s an excellent deal at $70 for PS5 version. Everything is on disc.
If you do not own the original, PS4 version is $60. Everything on disc except PS5 content (will go over later)
If you own the original; the Director’s cut digital upgrade to PS5 is $30
If you own the original; the Director’s cut digital upgrade for PS4 is $20. (You can upgrade to PS5 Director’s cut later if you want for $10)
--What’s New:
1. Iki’s island.
You can play from your original save file with all upgrades intact.
If you start from scratch, you have to reach a certain point in Act 2 main campaign to access the island content
I’d say it’s more of the base game, but with more quality content in less space and gameplay time than the base game
7-15 hours depending on your build/difficulty level selected when you enter the island.
If you played the base game it’s like one of the ‘Tales of Tsushima’ side quest series, but a bit longer.
For essentially $20 dlc, I’d say it’s a bit much. But you can also consider it a tip also for the excellent Legends DLC. If you’re starting new and never own the orginal then it’s already part of the package
-Story: Jin goes to Iki island to liberate it from the Scarecrow (Batman villain)…I mean a witch named Eagle, before she invades Tsushima. If Jin (the main character) is replaced by Batman, and Eagle with Scarecrow in a modern setting, you won’t tell the difference in terms of plot
Plot and story progression is really good although felt like it’s done before in a Batman comic.
-New activities: Flute/tilt control mini-game, Archery challenge, and Dueling Ring
-New PSN trophies to collect
-New armor and charms
-Able to run over enemies with your horse. Uses resolve
-Horse able to carry additional inventory for you
-New enemy types:
Shamans: give buffs enemies. Best to locate and take them out first
Enemies now carry multiple weapons, change stances, more of them on screen, and overall smarter in combat than those on the main island
2. For PS5 version you get:
4K graphics. Target 60 fps. Won’t notice a major difference compared to PS4 unless you have them side-by-side
Lip sync for Japanese voice-over. Don’t know why this isn’t in base game
Controller speaker (when not using headphones) for inner monologue, perfect parry sound, wind blowing
Haptic feedback when you parry/dodge, wind, swing on grapple hook, horse gallop, shaman shouting, during cutscenes, etc
Adaptive triggers when using bow, use grapple hook
3D audio (from compatible headphones)
Less than 1 second loading screen for fast travel and game over transition
If you have ps4 save data, you can transfer it to PS5
PS5 version has its own trophy list. All PS4 trophies from save data transfer will auto transfer over to PS5. May have to mess around with save file upload, game data download, and patch download for all trophies to pop up.
Overall, totally worth it if you never own the game before as this is the definitive version of the game with all DLC on one disc
If you own the original, you have to decided if the Iki expansion is worth $20, and PS5 features for $10 digitally
==
My original review of base game at launch:
Samurai Open World
First impression is that it's like a fusion between 'Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice' without the harsh difficulty + better story, and open world Ubisoft games (Assassins Creed, Far Cry, Watch Dogs), but as you play more you find out that the game moves the open world genre forward through it's presentation and gameplay mechanics.
Over arching story is better than Sekiro in my opinion as it's more grounded in reality. Flow is really good without having to retry multiple times/deep learning curves makes for a smoother story telling experience. Story lean toward historical accuracy and samurai films than mythical/spiritual themes
As an open world game, one of the best in terms of exploration, doesn't' string you along by pointing you where to go like most open world games
-Story/Plot:
The mongols take over Tsushima Island lead by Khotun Khan. You (Jin) have to retake territory and defeat Khotun Khan. Jin was a honorable samurai pre invasion facing enemies head on. Being outnumbered by powerful enemies, he must adapt and do cheap tactics like stealth and ambushes. You see Jin's inner conflict when he has conversations with other characters as he becomes samurai batma...the Ghost of Tsushima
-Presentation
Graphics is really good for an open world game. One of the best looking games on the PS4. Foliage, falling leaves, and fog are especially noticeable. Draw distance is really good, no pop in. Something is always going on in the environment whether it's leaves falling, flowers/grass blowing in the wind or fire embers floating in the air.
The world is not as expansive as like an Assassin's Creed game for example, but the space it uses don't feel wasted or copy/pasted. Each area has it's own biome and color theme attached to them.
There's a Kurosawa mode in the game which turns on a black-and-white filter similar to old samurai films. Gives the game more cinematic flare, but best reserved on second playthrough as it hinders gameplay
Game has 3D audio. If you have a setup that supports it, can have an advantage in battle and gives a more immersive experience. If you play in Kurosawa mode; the 3D audio is turned off, and you get a tinny stereo sound to the audio
Character performances are excellent (although over dramatic at times), but the lip syncing is a bit off. Didn't break the immersion for me though as there are a lot of great emotional cinematic scenes and set pieces
--Gameplay:
Main weapon is your katana. Strike, block, dodge and switch stances. Timing and knowing enemy attack animations are important as a missed attack leaves you open. Few strikes from a strong enemy will leave you with a game over screen. Not a button mashing game, as you have to be patient at times with the enemy.
As you progress, you gain consumable weapons like arrows, throwing knifes, and variety of bombs. The game consider this Ghost techniques/tools (thus the name of the game) as you're using weapons/tools outside of traditional samurai combat
By defeating enemies you increase your resolve meter which you can use to heal or do special attack
There's no lock-on system. When crowded by enemies can be hard to focus on who you're attacking especially when you need to dodge an incoming attack inside a tight area like in a building/hut. Enemies don't all attack at the same time similar to Assassin's Creed or Arkham Batman games where they attack one at a time (most of the time), so there's lee way there. Since there is no lock-on, the character movement does feel more fluid and cinematic, so it got that going for it.
Take advantage of stances. Some stances are more effective than others depending on enemy type. You can switch stances on the fly where the game gives off a brief slow motion indicator
There is stealth in the game, but it's very lenient. You don't need to worry about enemies' bodies after you take them out. Once you take someone out without being spotted, you're practically safe. Assassin animations are way better than anything i've seen in the Assassin's Creed series.
Boss battles have the camera hone in on two combatant making for a more epic presentation .
Load times are really fast, even for fast travel. Game over loading screen is masked by death animations
There's no large objective indicator or mini map, rather you follow where the wind blows (after you set an objective marker on your map). If you're having a hard time, just use the directional pad and it makes the wind more apparent. Makes for a more immersive experience as you focus on the environment around you rather than event markers on your HUD. Gives off a sense of destiny as the world draws you to where you need to be.
Camera is a mixed bag. Sometimes it's good, other times if you're in a confined area, the wall can block your view. Best not to fight indoors when possible
Main mission and side missions (character, side, and mystic quests) stack. Can take them all on at once, no need to tackle them one at a time. Some side missions can be boring from a gameplay perspective at times as they focus on conversations while walking with NPC to draw out the lore, or have you do fetch quests that feel like doesn't go anywhere. Doing these do help your character as they unlock new weapons and abilities
There's no real level up system, rather exploration just give you more tools/perks (easier aiming, larger stagger on enemies), and upgrades (bigger time window on moves, larger draw distance, etc) to defeat enemies with. Able to collect materials to upgrade/craft weapons damage/capacity and armor effectiveness.
There are also different armor you can equip that serve different purposes: one can be one combat based and other stealth based.
There are charms you can collect which at like materia slots in Final Fantasy VII remake, giving you passive abilities and/or additional stats
You can stick to the main story if you want, but you'll be missing out on hidden lore and new gameplay mechanics
Main campaign will last you 25-30 hours depending on how many side missions you plan to take on.
Very fun game overall. One of the best, if not the best immersive open world games I've played. Along with Last of Us Part 2, great first party game to end the PS4 era with as we move onto the PS5
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Kashimacool
excellent product
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