Ghost of Yōtei is a 2025 action-adventure game developed by Sucker Punch Productions. It serves as a standalone sequel to Ghost of Tsushima, set about 300 years later, and features a new protagonist, Atsu, in the northern Japanese frontier (Ezo / Hokkaido).

Official ratings and content warnings

The game has received a Mature 17+ (M) rating from the ESRB in the U.S., with the following content descriptors: Blood and Gore, Drug Reference, Intense Violence, Language, Partial Nudity, Use of Alcohol.

In addition to the ESRB, international markets have given equivalent adult ratings due to violence, sexual content, and substance use.

These official ratings mean the game is intended for mature audiences and is not generally recommended for minors.

Types of mature content in the game

Here are what you’re likely to encounter in Ghost of Yōtei, based on ESRB listings, gameplay reviews, and player reports:

Content category What’s included in the game Why it might be concerning
Violent / gory content Combat includes sword and ranged weapons. There are decapitations, dismemberment, blood splatter, impalements, and slow-motion execution kills. Graphic violence may be distressing, especially to younger or more sensitive players.
Nudity / sexual imagery A hot spring scene shows a female character’s exposed buttocks (partial nudity) during bath sequences. Though relatively minimal, such content is still sexualized and may not be appropriate for children.
Alcohol / substance use The game allows purchasing and consumption of sake. Visual effects (e.g. blurred screens) simulate intoxication. Depiction of drinking may influence perceptions of alcohol, especially for impressionable players.
Profanity / language Use of strong language (coarse words) appears in dialogue. May be inappropriate for younger audiences who are sensitive to profanity.
Dark / emotional themes The storyline involves revenge, family massacre, betrayal, violence against civilians, and traumatic backstories. Such themes can evoke fear, sadness, or anxiety in younger players.
Gambling-like mechanics Some mini-games have chance or betting mechanics (though not real money). Risk to normalizing gambling behaviors or speculative play.

How to gauge appropriateness for your child

Given the mature themes, Ghost of Yōtei is best suited for older teens or adults (17+). The content is intense, combining graphic violence and emotional depth.

Here’s how to assess whether it’s appropriate for a younger player:

How to evaluate

Step 1

View key gameplay segments or cutscenes first.
Watch online videos or trailers showing combat, story, and bath scenes to see whether the level of violence or nudity crosses boundaries you’re comfortable with.

Step 2

Check local ratings and content notes.
Compare the ESRB descriptors with your country’s rating board (PEGI, ESRB Asia, etc.) to understand regional acceptance.

Step 3

Play or observe early levels yourself.
Because the game is out, you can see firsthand how scenes unfold (sound, pacing, jumpscares) before allowing play.

Step 4

Discuss the mature content openly.
Talk about what makes violence in the game fictional, the difference between vengeance and justice, and why some scenes may be disturbing.

Step 5

Use console parental controls or limits.
If you decide to allow play, set firm rules: skip certain cutscenes, limit play time, or require supervision during the more intense segments.

Now that Ghost of Yōtei is released, the mature content is no longer speculative — it’s verifiable. The game presents graphic violence, partial nudity, emotional trauma, and depictions of alcohol use. For many younger or sensitive players, these elements could be overwhelming or disturbing.

Treat this game as you would an R-rated film or mature TV show: appropriate only for those who are ready to handle its intensity. Watching gameplay, setting boundaries, and keeping an open dialogue will help you make a safe, informed choice.