Top Games Like Ghost Of Tsushima That You Will Enjoy

Launched in 2020, Ghost of Tsushima from Sucker Punch challenged the conventions of open-world gaming with its breathtaking visuals and immersive storytelling set in 13th-century Japan. While it arguably stands as one of the most graphically impressive titles on the PlayStation 4—only rivaled by Red Dead Redemption 2—its rich single-player campaign, subsequent multiplayer modes, PS5 Director’s Cut, and PC port have solidified its place in the gaming landscape. The anticipation for a sequel remains, though details are still largely speculative.

Despite the lengthy campaign providing ample playtime, players will inevitably seek out new experiences once they finish Ghost of Tsushima. While no game can replicate the exact essence of Sucker Punch’s masterpiece, there are numerous titles that evoke similar feelings and themes, offering varied yet satisfying experiences.

Updated December 14, 2024 by Mark Sammut: Ghost of Tsushima transports players to a distinctive historical setting, prompting fans to explore other titles that prioritize historical immersion—even if those settings differ significantly from Japan. Among these recommendations is a notable trilogy. Continue reading to discover these games.

1. Rise Of The Ronin

An Open-World RPG with Soulslike Combat Set in Edo Japan

Team Ninja’s Rise of the Ronin received a warm reception highlighted by its highly stylized gameplay and setting, set during the last years of the Edo period. Competing against Capcom’s Dragon’s Dogma 2, which garnered considerable attention, Rise of the Ronin offers a gameplay atmosphere and style reminiscent of Ghost of Tsushima—leading some to perceive it as a spiritual successor.

Both titles share action-packed gameplay set against pivotal historical backdrops, with Rise of the Ronin’s combat system exemplifying Team Ninja’s Soulslike expertise. The game distinguishes itself through unlockable combat styles and a less punishing difficulty curve compared to Nioh 2, providing a satisfying and accessible fighting experience.

2. Marvel’s Spider-Man 2

A Modern Open-World with Versatile Combat and a Compelling Narrative

Building on the success of its predecessors, Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 excels in presenting two playable characters, Peter Parker and Miles Morales. This sequel enhances the combat dynamics with the introduction of Venom abilities, unique to each character while maintaining the core gameplay mechanics. Players can explore a beautifully detailed world teeming with compelling side content that both expands the narrative and enhances gameplay.

Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 not only captivates players with its gripping story but also solidifies Insomniac’s reputation by showcasing their ability to elevate existing formulas.

3. Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty

A Soulslike Game Infused with Chinese History

Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty Complete Edition

Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty, developed by Team Ninja, is a formidable entry in the Soulslike genre. While it embraces familiar combat mechanics, it emphasizes the parry system, making timing critical in battles. Set during China’s Three Kingdoms era, the game integrates historical elements with supernatural foes to create a unique narrative experience.

The challenge is substantial, often surpassing that found in Ghost of Tsushima, but both games reward adept players with their fast-paced skill-based combat sequences.

4. Black Myth: Wukong

An Ambitious Adaptation of a Legendary Chinese Text

Black Myth: Wukong, inspired by the beloved Chinese literary work “Journey to the West,”revolutionized the gaming scene upon its release in 2024. Unlike Ghost of Tsushima’s realistic historical portrayal, this game takes creative liberties, immersing players in a fantastical world inhabited by both legendary heroes and mythical beasts.

While not an open-world title, Black Myth offers breathtaking visuals and fast-paced combat reminiscent of Soulslike mechanics, promising a thoroughly engaging experience for players who appreciate action with a narrative depth.

5. The Fire Ring

An Expansive Open-World Soulslike Adventure

From Software’s Elden Ring encapsulates the spirit of exploration that fans of Ghost of Tsushima will find appealing. Although its difficulty is renowned, it offers an expansive world filled with rich lore and intricate designs. Players can invest hundreds of hours exploring diverse landscapes peppered with quests, hidden treasures, and formidable challenges.

This title stands as one of the preeminent open-world RPGs, ideal for Ghost of Tsushima players eager to demonstrate their combat prowess in a new environment.

6. Way Of The Samurai Series

An Immersive Ronin Simulation

The Way of the Samurai series may not always get the attention it deserves, but it has consistently delivered engaging gameplay that immerses players in various periods of Japanese history. In these games, players assume the role of a Ronin navigating the complexities of social and political strife within towns.

The series allows for unique player-driven choices, enhancing replay value as narratives unfold in drastically different ways with each playthrough. Particularly, Way of the Samurai 4 offers an accessible introduction, boasting polished combat mechanics alongside a well-explored setting.

7. Stellar Blade

A PS5 Exclusive Showcasing Impressive Combat

Although Stellar Blade differs greatly from Ghost of Tsushima in terms of setting—taking place in a dystopian future—the core of both games lies in their robust combat systems. With a focus on dodges and parries, Stellar Blade features a dynamic blend of hack-and-slash and Soulslike mechanics, demanding precision from players.

While its narrative may not shine as brightly as its gameplay, Stellar Blade rewards exploration in robust environments that open up as players progress, paralleling Ghost of Tsushima’s emphasis on world exploration.

8. The Onimusha Series

A Blend of Japanese History and Supernatural Elements

The Onimusha series offers a captivating experience with a dark tone that some Ghost of Tsushima fans may find appealing. This franchise combines historical narratives with supernatural battles, providing a unique twist on Japan’s past that involves legendary figures confronting demonic forces.

Puzzle-solving elements add depth to the gameplay, complementing its engaging combat mechanics. The remastered Onimusha: Warlords serves as an ideal entry point for newcomers looking to delve into this cult classic.

9. Middle-earth: Shadow Of War

Fluid Combat Enhanced by the Nemesis System

For those yearning for an engaging story with rich character development and captivating mechanics, look no further than Middle-earth: Shadow of War. This sequel builds upon the lore of Tolkien’s universe, enhancing its predecessor’s gameplay with the innovative Nemesis system, allowing for dynamic interactions with enemies.

The combat system flows seamlessly, reflecting a well-crafted open-world design that rewards exploration and skill, making it an excellent choice for players seeking similar thrills to those found in Ghost of Tsushima.

10. Like A Dragon: They were!

A Yakuza-Inspired Take on Japan’s Edo Period

The Yakuza franchise, known for its riveting stories set in modern Japan, takes a historical twist in Like A Dragon: Ishin!. Set in the Edo period, this captivating narrative intertwines revenge with character relationships inspired by historical figures, albeit recognized through the familiar art style of the franchise.

While its urban environment may not rival the expansive realm of Ghost of Tsushima, Ishin! effectively utilizes its limited space to deliver an engaging combat experience that incorporates weaponry and a fresh card-based skill system.

11. Horizon Zero Dawn & Forbidden West

Known for its stunning landscapes and immersive gameplay, Horizon Zero Dawn invites players into a world where humanity has regressed into tribal societies amidst robotic adversaries. The game’s focus on strategic combat against towering mechanical beasts poses an exciting shift from the combat style found in Ghost of Tsushima while maintaining vibrant explorations across expansive terrains.

The Horizon Forbidden West Complete Edition is also available on PC, further expanding the opportunity for players to engage with its captivating narrative and world.

12. Devil May Cry 5

Premier Hack-and-Slash Combat on PS5 and PS4

While Devil May Cry 5 may not feature the same expansive world as Ghost of Tsushima, it offers the best hack-and-slash gameplay available. With a trio of playable characters, each bringing their own mechanics to combat, players are treated to an exhilarating experience filled with intricate combo potential. The game’s complexity, while accessible to newcomers, requires dedication to master its depth.

With Dante at the forefront—whose mechanics revolve around combo chains akin to Jin’s stances—Devil May Cry 5 guarantees a riveting experience that emphasizes combat above all else.

13. Batman: Arkham City

Densely Packed Open Worlds with Accessible Combat Mechanics

Those who enjoyed Ghost of Tsushima may find Batman: Arkham City to be a familiar yet distinctive journey through a gritty open-world filled with captivating gameplay elements. Both titles encourage explorative gameplay filled with riddles and mini-quests, offering an immersive experience that keeps players engaged with numerous collectibles, some of which serve as narrative drivers.

14. Samurai Warriors 5

An Action-Packed Representation of Japan’s Sengoku Period

While Omega Force’s Samurai Warriors 5 and Ghost of Tsushima both fall under the action genre, their gameplay dynamics significantly diverge. Emphasizing epic battles against countless foes, the Musou series allows players to engage in large-scale conflicts reflecting Japan’s Warring States era. While Samurai Warriors 5 may not be the franchise’s finest iteration, it provides a fantastic entry point to the series.

The game highlights significant battles and notable historical figures, presenting rich narratives that expand upon the lore of Japan’s intriguing past.

15. Kingdoms Of Amalur: Re-Reckoning

A Colorful Universe with Dynamic Combat

Before titles like Ghost of Tsushima and Elden Ring transformed expectations for third-person action combat, Kingdoms of Amalur showcased some of the most fluid gameplay of its time. Comprised of a vibrant world filled with various character builds and engaging combat mechanics, this remastered RPG brings a nostalgic experience while delivering a polished update for today’s gamers.

Although newcomers may realize the age of its design, the Re-Reckoning edition refreshes this beloved title, retaining the core that made it special while beautifully enhancing its visuals.

16. The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

An Epic Dark Fantasy with Exceptional Storytelling

The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt has rightfully positioned itself as a staple recommendation across various gaming discussions. Its expansive open world, richly woven narrative, and multifaceted characters provide a similar allure to Ghost of Tsushima’s detailed lore and setting. While Witcher 3 is set within a fantastical realm, its foundation in medieval themes resonates with those who appreciate depth in storytelling.

Combat differs notably, presenting its own learning curve, but just like Ghost of Tsushima, players embark on an established character’s journey—adding a layer of narrative significance to every action.

17. Mafia Trilogy

Engaging Historical Narratives

At first glance, Mafia may seem worlds apart from Ghost of Tsushima in terms of gameplay and themes. However, both franchises excel in one crucial aspect—immersion. While Ghost of Tsushima encapsulates a rarely explored segment of Japanese history, the Mafia trilogy transports players to various pivotal moments in American history, from the 1930s through the late 1960s.

The Mafia series emphasizes storytelling over extensive side activities, choosing to focus on crafting a cohesive narrative experience with rich environmental details that reflect the era accurately. While the gameplay may not be groundbreaking, the series’ strengths lie in its character development and plot execution.

Mafia: The Old Country is set to be released in 2025, promising to expand upon these captivating narratives.

18. Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order & Survivor

A Compelling Cinematic Experience

The Star Wars Jedi series, particularly Fallen Order and its sequel Survivor, skillfully blends engaging mechanics with captivating storytelling. Players embody Cal Kestis, a Jedi embroiled in a galaxy under oppressive rule, as he uncovers new abilities that enhance combat variety throughout the two titles.

Though not strictly open-world, expansive environments are integral to the experience, encouraging exploration and discovery while building layers to Cal’s narrative arc. With rich lore and dynamic gameplay, both titles offer compelling journeys for gamers invested in story-driven action.

19. Infamous Series

Sucker Punch’s Vibrant Superhero Saga

For fans of Ghost of Tsushima, exploring Sucker Punch’s Infamous series is a must. This superhero franchise offers engaging gameplay set in urban environments, supplemented by morality-based decisions affecting narrative outcomes. While the gameplay style differs from Ghost of Tsushima’s grounded realism, both focus on dynamic combat and character progression.

New players may consider starting with the series as follows:

Infamous (2009) – Introduces Cole MacGrath, an everyman turned hero, navigating Empire City’s moral dilemmas.
Infamous 2 (2011) – A direct sequel enhancing its predecessor’s mechanics; it offers improved traversal and fluid combat.
Infamous Second Son (2014) – A standalone entry showcasing PS4 capabilities, serving as a fresh start.

20. Trek to Yomi

A Stunning Visual and Authentic Samurai Experience

Trek to Yomi pays homage to classic samurai cinema, adopting a striking visual style reminiscent of Ghost of Tsushima’s cinematic elements. While it offers a more linear gameplay experience focused on hack and slash mechanics, it captures the spirit of feudal Japan masterfully.

Its narrative, woven around a revenge plot, alongside its awe-inspiring aesthetics, creates an engaging experience for those looking for a simpler yet equally compelling journey into Japan’s storied history.

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