Summary
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“Ghost of Yotei” could feature foxes with a darker, retributive side based on Japanese folklore.
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Disrespect towards a fox can have supernatural consequences in Japanese culture, including illness or possession.
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The sequel could introduce a side quest related to the irreverence of Inari Shrine, tying into Shinto folklore.
The fox is not only one of Japan's most respected animals, but also one of the most memorable creatures in the breathtaking world of Japan Ghost of Tsushima. As players explore the island of Tsushima, they often come across foxes that bark at Jin from a distance, demanding that he follow them to a nearby Inari shrine. There, Jin can earn promotion to a new spell slot and possibly even get the chance to pet the fox before he leaves. Now, Spirit of Yotei It would be remiss not to show the animal again, but the game could do a lot more with foxes this time around to bring them into focus a bit more.
Foxes could still be just as charming and lovable Spirit of Yoteibut according to Japanese folklore, they have a darker side that many may not be aware of. As such, perhaps Spirit of Yotei could expand the fox's purpose and expand its role in the game's narrative, while also drawing on the deep well of stories and beliefs surrounding the animal.

Related
What to expect from Ghost of Yotei in 2025
Ghost of Yotei is officially scheduled to release in 2025 and fans can look forward to a brand new story with a new protagonist as well as updates to the game.
Ghost of Yotei could show a different side of the fox
Japanese folklore says that foxes retaliate when disrespected
In Japanese culture, foxes, also known as “kitsune,” are considered extremely significant and respectable creatures with close ties to Shinto beliefs and folklore. Foxes are considered so special that they are often seen as messengers of the deity Inari, who is associated with rice and agriculture, fertility and abundance, and trade and prosperity. Given the importance of foxes in Japanese culture, disrespect towards any of the animals is considered potentially dangerous and can lead to supernatural consequences that one would prefer to avoid.
In Japanese culture, foxes, also known as “kitsune,” are considered extremely significant and respectable creatures with close ties to Shinto beliefs and folklore.
Disrespect toward a fox, for example, can result in bad luck, illness, or other hardships beingfall the perpetrator. In more extreme cases, foxes are believed to possess those who disrespect them out of revenge or punishment. This particular condition, also called kitsunetsuki, is known in Shinto folklore for causing erratic behavior and other physical symptoms. Foxes are also considered cunning tricksters in Japanese culture, whose retaliatory behavior is often aimed at humiliating or deceiving those who mistreat them. After all, since foxes are connected to the deity Inari, disrespecting a fox is often seen as an insult to Inari at the same time, leading to larger, more spiritual repercussions.
A side quest in Ghost of Yotei could bring Japanese fox folklore to life
Considering the widespread beliefs about foxes in Japanese culture and the likelihood that this is the case Spirit of Yotei While maintaining its predecessor's love of animals, the sequel may have an opportunity to explore the supernatural side of foxes rather than bringing them into play as mere guides. For example, Spirit of Yotei could involve a side quest or series of side quests having to do with someone disrespecting or damaging an Inari Shrine in some way, with Atsu tasked with tracking down the perpetrator and witnessing the consequences of his actions first hand. It would be a great opportunity for Spirit of Yotei to incorporate horror elements into its world and also teach players a little more about Shinto folklore.
By delving deeper into the nature of foxes in Japanese folklore – both as messengers of Inari and agents of supernatural retribution – Spirit of Yotei could transform these iconic animals from the first game into much more prominent characters in its world. Such an approach to foxes would not only increase cultural authenticity Spirit of Yotei but also its atmosphere and themes. Whether through a haunting side quest or subtle hints of the animal's supernatural side, foxes have the potential to take over Spirit of Yoteitakes storytelling and world-building to a whole new level while honoring the respect these creatures are known for in Japanese culture.

Spirit of Yōtei
The sequel to Ghost of Tsushima, Sucker Punch's Ghost of Yōtei, is a PS5 exclusive scheduled for release sometime in 2025. The story is set in 1603 and will feature a new protagonist and a new Japanese region far removed from Tsushima's setting.
action
adventure
Open world

- Released
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00.00.2025
- Publisher)
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Sony Interactive Entertainment