This past fall, Sony and Sucker Punch Productions finally released “Ghost of Yotei,” the follow-up to the critically acclaimed “Ghost of Tsushima.” Set hundreds of years after the events in “Tsushima,” we play as Atsu, a woman on a mission of vengeance after witnessing the death of her family at the hands of Lord Saito, an outcast samurai bent on taking over the island of Hokkaido in northern Japan. 

It’s not uncommon for gameplay to take a backseat in story-driven games, but that is certainly not the case with “Ghost of Yotei.” Not only is there extremely compelling, emotional storytelling, but there is also thoroughly engaging gameplay. Combat is intense and flows with rhythm, and you quickly learn to identify the perfect moment to attack, block or parry with each of the weapons Atsu picks up along her journey. The island of Hokkaido is littered with enemy encampments that you can either eliminate with stealth or confront head-on. Both playstyles are so intuitive and fun that I had no problem switching between them. There are also puzzles and plenty of challenges to find throughout the game. 

“Yotei” has one of the most beautiful worlds I’ve ever seen in a video game, and very few games reward exploration as well as this one. New upgrades, new gear, incredible sights and serene moments of music and artistry are around every corner. “Ghost of Yotei” is a world to get lost in. It’s almost too easy to get sidetracked from the main story, following every thread that you come across. But when I did get back to the story, “Yotei” became a truly special gaming experience. The characters feel alive. It’s a heartfelt story influenced by classic samurai films — and westerns — that impacted me more than any other game in recent memory.

The only negative thing I have to say about “Ghost of Yotei” is that it’s too much like “Ghost of Tsushima,” which I loved and wanted more of. But it feels like there could have been more evolution here rather than what feels like downloadable content. I’m not complaining, though! Seriously, I love this game. 

Like its predecessor, “Ghost of Yotei” leaves its mark on players in a way few other games can. Everything about it is amazing, and I’m already waiting for more.