Getting Started
Essential tips for new players beginning Atsu's journey through 1603 Ezo.
Beginner's Roadmap
Follow these essential steps to start your journey successfully
Master Weapon Switching
The most important skill in Ghost of Yotei is learning to switch weapons mid-combat. Different enemies have specific vulnerabilities, and relying on a single weapon will make battles unnecessarily difficult.
- •Practice switching between katana, dual blades, and ōdachi
- •Learn enemy weaknesses early
- •Keep ranged weapons ready for aerial enemies
Explore Thoroughly
Ezo rewards thorough exploration. Hidden shrines, hot springs, and merchant camps provide valuable upgrades, resources, and lore.
- •Follow foxes to hidden shrines
- •Mark points of interest on your map
- •Visit hot springs to increase maximum health
Upgrade Strategically
Resources are limited early on. Prioritize upgrades that match your playstyle - whether that's stealth, direct combat, or ranged attacks.
- •Focus on one weapon type initially
- •Upgrade armor that suits your playstyle
- •Increase ammo capacity for your preferred ranged weapon
Learn the Grappling Hook
The grappling hook opens up vertical exploration and combat options. Master it early to access hidden areas and gain tactical advantages.
- •Use it to reach high vantage points
- •Grapple during combat for aerial attacks
- •Access rooftops for stealth approaches
Combat Guide
Weapon Selection Strategy
Unlike Ghost of Tsushima where the katana dominated, Ghost of Yotei requires tactical weapon switching. Here's when to use each weapon:
Katana
Best for: Armored samurai, duels, balanced encounters
Weakness: Groups of fast enemies
Dual Blades
Best for: Unarmored enemies, quick strikes, combo chains
Weakness: Heavy armor, shields
Ōdachi
Best for: Breaking shields, heavy armor, crowd control
Weakness: Fast-moving enemies
Kusarigama
Best for: Pulling enemies, disabling shields, mid-range
Weakness: Close-quarters brawls
Yumi Bow
Best for: Stealth kills, long-range, headshots
Weakness: Limited arrows, close combat
Tanegashima
Best for: Heavily armored foes, bosses, devastating damage
Weakness: Scarce ammo, slow reload
Combat Tips
- •Perfect Parry TimingTime your parries just as the enemy attack is about to land. Perfect parries create openings for devastating counterattacks.
- •Stance DancingLearn to switch stances mid-combo. Advanced players can chain different weapon attacks for maximum efficiency.
- •Environmental KillsUse the grappling hook to kick enemies off ledges, into water, or through weak walls for instant kills.
Weapons Upgrade Priority
Upgrade your arsenal strategically. Here's the recommended priority order:
Katana (First Priority)
Your most versatile weapon. Upgrade damage and durability first. Essential for main story progression.
Yumi Bow (Second Priority)
Critical for stealth approaches. Upgrade arrow capacity and damage. Enables silent eliminations.
Specialized Weapon (Third Priority)
Choose based on playstyle: Dual Blades for aggression, Ōdachi for power, or Kusarigama for versatility.
Tanegashima (Fourth Priority)
Save for late game. Upgrade ammo capacity when you can reliably find bullets. Game-changer for boss fights.
Exploration Guide
Follow the Foxes
White foxes guide you to hidden Inari shrines. These shrines grant charm slots - essential for character progression.
• Always follow foxes when spotted
• Honor shrines by bowing (press down on D-pad)
• Collect all charms for maximum build flexibility
Hot Springs
Bathing in hot springs permanently increases your maximum health. Finding all hot springs is crucial for survival.
• Listen for bubbling water sounds
• Check mountain areas and valleys
• Each spring provides permanent health boost
Bamboo Strikes
Complete bamboo cutting challenges to increase resolve (special ability meter). Higher resolve = more special attacks.
• Match the button sequence shown
• Speed increases with each round
• Perfect completions grant bonus resolve
Ancient Shrines
Discover ancient shrines for lore, resources, and unique cosmetic rewards. Some require solving environmental puzzles.
• Look for stone lanterns and gates
• Use grappling hook to reach high shrines
• Collect haiku spots for inspiration
Upgrade System
Resource Management
Ghost of Yotei uses multiple resource types for upgrades. Understanding what to prioritize is key to efficient progression.
Iron & Steel
Weapon upgrades, armor reinforcement
Cloth & Leather
Armor crafting, cosmetic items
Rare Materials
Legendary gear, special abilities
Armor Types
Samurai Armor (Damage Reduction)
Best for aggressive, direct combat playstyle. Reduces incoming damage significantly.
Archer Armor (Bow Damage)
Enhances ranged attacks and arrow capacity. Perfect for stealth and long-range elimination.
Ghost Armor (Stealth)
Reduces enemy detection range and sound. Essential for pure stealth approaches.
Complete strategy guide for Ghost of Yotei. Master combat techniques, weapon selection, exploration tips, and upgrade systems. Learn how to excel in Atsu's journey through 1603 Ezo with expert strategies and tips.