It has been almost exactly a year since Sucker Punch released Ghost of Tsushima, a title that quickly became a favorite (recognized as one of the ten best games of last year). Jin Sakai’s journey, transforming from a samurai without a clan to the liberator of Tsushima Island, proved surprisingly moving and, in some ways, filled the void left by our yearning for the world of The Witcher 3.
Now, Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut has arrived, essentially the original game augmented with a new area in the form of the Iki Island expansion. Available on both PS4 and PS5, the upgrade path for existing owners is varied – and potentially confusing – with associated costs (detailed below). This review will cover what to expect from the Director’s Cut, as well as the PS5 version enhancements. For a comprehensive overview of the core gameplay, refer to our review of the original PS4 release.
Ghost of Tsushima already benefited from improved performance on the PS5 via backwards compatibility. This enabled a frame rate of 60fps, even in the highest graphics settings, along with reduced loading times. The Director’s Cut provides a dedicated PS5 version, offering several subtle but appreciable enhancements. The resolution is now dynamic 4K at 60fps. While options exist to prioritize either resolution or frame rate, we recommend maintaining the Resolution Mode to leverage the enhanced detail while still achieving a consistent 60fps. (Future support for 120Hz in Frame Rate Mode remains a possibility). The resolution increase results in a noticeable improvement in overall visual clarity. Further observations include improved and more natural lighting effects, refinements to cutscene animations (now rendered in real-time on PS5), and redesigns to certain menus. The developers should also be commended for facilitating a seamless transfer of save data from the PS4 version, allowing players to continue their progress with their existing equipment without requiring the PS4 version to be installed.
The audio now incorporates 3D Tempest Audio (via headphones). Players who prefer Japanese audio can now enjoy accurate lip-syncing, and the DualSense controller provides haptic feedback during actions such as riding and katana swings. New gameplay features include the ability to play the flute directly (yes!) and a horse-mounted attack (consuming resolve). The Director’s Cut also enables the assignment of special attacks to the R1 and R2 buttons, streamlining combat inputs. Loading times are significantly reduced, and the overall Ghost of Tsushima experience feels more refined and optimized, although some visual elements retain their last-generation origins (observable, for example, when Jin traverses water at the start of the Iki Island mission).
Iki Island provides a new area for exploration. The player’s “Ghost” reputation is reset within this area, and new techniques can be unlocked. A completely new map, approximately half the size of the base game’s, is available. The narrative on Iki centers on a new Mongol tribe, led by a mysterious woman known as The Eagle, who utilizes mysticism and magic to advance her agenda. Iki Island presents a visually striking environment, characterized by skeletal remains, treacherous cliffs, and new wildlife. This expansion provides more of what made the core game compelling, coupled with new challenges and missions that will test established gameplay approaches. If the base story is incomplete, the Iki Island mission can be initiated from Act 2 onwards. However, completing the main campaign beforehand is recommended, as acquired upgrades will prove valuable on Iki.
What is the Cost of Ghost of Tsushima DC (Director’s Cut)?
The pricing structure is somewhat complex, so please pay attention: For those without the base game, the Director’s Cut for PS4 or PS5 is priced at approximately 600-700 SEK (with the PS4 version being slightly less expensive). Owners of the base PS4 game can upgrade to the Director’s Cut for around 200 SEK. A further upgrade from the PS4 Director’s Cut to the PS5 version incurs an additional charge of 100 SEK. Conversely, upgrading directly from the PS4 version of the game on PS5 to both the Director’s Cut and native PS5 support requires a single payment of 300 SEK.
We consider 100 SEK a reasonable cost for a next-gen patch, and 200 SEK is acceptable for the DLC content. However, the total cost of 300 SEK may feel somewhat excessive for those who recently purchased the PS4 version at full price (on PS5, for example). While recognizing the need to compensate developers for their work, the concept of free upgrades for early adopters who invested in the PS5 is also appealing. Perhaps Sony could have offered a complimentary PS5 upgrade and charged solely for the DLC?
Regardless of individual upgrade scenarios, we wholeheartedly recommend Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut. It remains a compelling, visually stunning, and immersive open-world experience, now further enhanced on the PS5. The value of the upgrade is a matter of personal consideration, as the enhancements, while noticeable, are not transformative. However, for those who have yet to experience the game and own a PS5, a truly exceptional adventure awaits.
We eagerly anticipate spending more time with Jin on new islands and consider this an excellent experience while awaiting the arrival of Witcher 4, which a job advertisement may have hinted is in development.
