Much-anticipated video game “Ghost of Yotei” has at last received an “M” for Mature rating from the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), providing some clue as to the graphic content of the game and the course of the story. This rating is in agreement with the game’s maturity rating for players over 17 years of age, based on attributes such as “Blood and Gore,” “Drug Reference,” “Intense Violence,” “Language,” “Partial Nudity,” and “Use of Alcohol.” These ratings are appropriate for the gritty, realistic experience expected by the fans of its spiritual predecessor.
Continuing on with the ESRB’s summary, “Ghost of Yotei” focuses on Atsu, a solitary warrior driven by revenge after her family were slain. The combat system is said to be notably cruel, using a variety of weapons such as katanas, spears, bows, and rifles. Gameplay will feature cinematic finishing strikes, graphic portrayals of dismemberment and beheading, hinting at the brutality of the combat. Other than the fighting itself, the series is about to venture into extremely heavy and dark themes, with scenes of immolation having their characters infected by it, being repeatedly stabbed, and even committing suicide.
Mature themes in the game go beyond violence. The ESRB information includes examples of alcohol use, such as involvement in drinking games. A brief moment of partial nudity also appears in the game, adding to the adult rating. Game dialogue also contains an example of opium, with mature depiction of the less positive things in life.
As a precursor to a full-fledged announcement of “Ghost of Yotei,” State of Play event, dedicated to this title, will be held later in July 2025. The presentation will be accompanied by a detailed preview of exploration mechanics, combat aspects, and new gameplay-related innovations that the game will introduce. As a spiritual follow-up to the critically acclaimed “Ghost of Tsushima,” “Ghost of Yotei” advances 300 years in the timeline with a fresh narrative and new geographic location. The game releases on October 2, 2025, as a console exclusive for the PlayStation 5.
