Following its October 2, 2025 release, Sucker Punch's "Ghost of Yotei" has seen global media outlets begin releasing reviews. The game currently holds an impressive average score of 87 on the renowned review aggregation site Metacritic, with its overall reception categorized as "generally favorable." Critics hail it as a successful continuation and further elevation of the spirit of "Ghost of Tsushima."
International Outlets Unanimously Praise Visuals, Music, and Open-World Experience
Most reviewers have lavished praise on "Ghost of Yotei"'s artistic direction and musical score. VGC, awarding a perfect 10, lauded the game for "surpassing 'Ghost of Tsushima' in almost every aspect." They noted it not only streamlined some of its predecessor's more drawn-out elements but also delivered some of the industry's finest visual and audio experiences.
Game Rant also gave a perfect score, asserting that while "Ghost of Tsushima" laid the groundwork, "Ghost of Yotei" fully capitalized on that foundation. The outlet believed the game represented a complete evolution in visuals, combat, story, and music, making it one of the most essential exclusive titles on PS5. 
GamesRadar+ awarded a 9, specifically highlighting the protagonist's compelling character development, noting it was one of the best characters in gaming history. While some of the climbing mechanics felt dated, they noted it didn't detract from what was an essential revenge adventure.
Rich Gameplay, Yet Room for Improvement
In reviews falling within the 8-point range, several outlets found the game's overall performance solid but acknowledged areas for refinement. IGN noted that while the story might be predictable, its magnificent scenery and fluid combat still allowed players to immerse themselves in a rich samurai fantasy.
Voxel described the title as "more of 'Ghost of Tsushima'," praising its impressive achievements in open-world exploration and visual presentation. However, they felt that while combat offered more variety, it occasionally became repetitive. 
ComicBook.com lauded the combat, describing it as both dynamic and cinematic, its narrative filled with emotional depth, and its world grand and impactful. However, they conceded that some late-game content fell into typical open-world tropes.
Multiplayer.it analyzed the game from a structural perspective, suggesting that Sucker Punch didn't force innovation but rather steadily refined existing gameplay and narrative elements. This approach, they felt, allowed players to comfortably invest dozens of hours into the experience, which they likened to sitting around a familiar and warm campfire.
Side Quests and Open-World Design Show Their Age
While the overall critical reception has been largely positive, some outlets maintained reservations. Eurogamer, for instance, awarded only 60 points, criticizing the title for having poor quality side quests and an outdated open-world structure. They suggested that a linear action game approach might have yielded a more effective experience.
A Successful Sequel Carrying on Its Predecessor's Spirit
Overall, international reviews indicate that while "Ghost of Yotei" isn't seen as a revolutionary open-world title, it successfully builds upon and surpasses the foundation laid by "Ghost of Tsushima" through superior art direction, more powerful musical scores, and refined combat and character development. For players who enjoy samurai themes, historical RPGs, or simply wish to immerse themselves in a grand open world, this title is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated action-adventure games of the year. 
Its current Metacritic score of 87 points is ample proof of the game's quality and appeal. As further feedback from the player community emerges, "Ghost of Yotei" is poised to become another milestone for Sucker Punch in the PS5 era.
via： Metacritic