Ghost of Tsushima is a swan song PS4 open-world RPG made by Sucker Punch Studios, famous for the Infamous and Sly Cooper series. Players assume the role of Jin Sakai, faced with defending the Japanese island of Tsushima from the invasion of the Mongol army.
The open world of Tsushima is littered with collectibles, many of which players will be guided towards by in-game creatures such as birds and foxes. This guide will show beginner players which spirits to follow to maximize their strength early on in the campaign.
Hot Springs, Bamboo Strikes in Ghost of Tsushima
Players should look for collectibles that will provide quick stat boosts for Jin when they start their exploration at the southern side of the island of Tsushima. Hot springs provide moments of character reflection for Jin, and also slightly upgrade his health. Bamboo strikes are regional skill tests, likely near small towns. To complete a bamboo strike, players have to memorize an escalating number of button combinations, as Jin strikes down three to seven pieces of bamboo. Successful completion of these challenges builds resolve. Hot springs will increase health automatically, but it takes multiple bamboo strikes to grow resolve.
Shrines in Ghost of Tsushima
Shrines in Ghost of Tsushima are related to the charms on Jin's weaponry. Players have two major charm slots and can unlock up to four minor charms over the course of the game. Charms provide combat specific enhancements, allowing players to customize Jin for stealth or open combat situations. Inari shrines are related to foxes, another type of spirit guide for Jin. Following foxes to their shrine will eventually unlock new charm slots, similar to how bamboo strikes grow resolve. Major charms are unlocked in large Shinto shrines tucked into secret spots around the map, often involving a tense platforming maze to find. Minor charms are earned through tales, the name for side quests throughout the game. Players would do well to build a strong charm collection before the end of Act 1.
Cosmetic and Vanity Items in Ghost of Tsushima
Some collectibles in Ghost of Tsushima only affect Jin's appearance. He has a customizable set of armor, hats, headbands, sword skins, Haiku spots in particular really hit at the soul of what Ghost of Tsushima is trying to explore philosophically. Slow down and write a poem with Jin and players will be rewarded with new headbands. Pillars of honor are a bit harder to find, more available in Act 2, and these result in new sword skins. Sashimono Banners and Singing crickets are tied to specific vendors, who will collect them in exchange for new saddles and new flute music respectively. Jin's flute can change the weather, rolling in a clever fog for stealth missions, or clearing the sky to take in the full beauty of the world for a dramatic duel.
Following the Wind in Ghost of Tsushima
Players can upgrade Jin's affinity with the wind guidance so that he is led to any of the myriad collectibles on Tsushima. Upgrade the Traveler's attire for the keenest ability to snuff out these hidden wonders around the island. Each Act in Ghost of Tsushima ramps up the difficulty, so players must the importance of collectibles to rise to every challenge prepared.
Ghost of Tsushima is available on PlayStation 4.
