Summary
Ghost of Tsushimais one of the most memorable new franchises of the last console generation. The reason for the success of the game is hard to attribute to any one of its elements. The story is relatable and easy to get invested in, the visual presentation is stunning, and its combat is compelling. Combine that with a unique approach to open-world design and plenty of engaging side content, and it’s easy to see whyGhost of Tsushimahas succeeded in capturing the hearts of PlayStation fans. Despite utilizing some common gaming tropes, it’s hard to find another game likeGhost of Tsushima, and with no sequel in sight, fans have been left craving more.
The gameplay ofGhost of Tsushimahas a lot in common with series likeAssassin’s Creed, but its setting is something special. There are plenty ofgames set in Japan, but very few are grounded in history, as visually rich, and as realistic. Games likeNioh 2have a historical Japanese setting, but their worlds are filled with Yokai. On the other hand, there are plenty of realistic depictions of modern-day Asia. While it is set in a fictitious era of Chinese history and bends reality a touch more thanGhost of Tsushimadoes,The Wind Roadprovides a unique locale grounded in Asian history and great gameplay. It could be the perfect way to scratch the itch for those who can’t wait forGhost of Tsushima 2.
What is The Wind Road?
The Wind Roadis amartial arts gamewith RPG elements that is published by Phoenix Games. Set during a fictional era of Chinese history, the game tasks the player with defending the Silk Road, a real-world trade route that reached from China into the southern regions of Europe. During the events of the game, the Barbarians of the Grey Wolf, a group of bandits that have tormented those on the Silk Road for hundreds of years, take over Longyou, putting the trade route in peril along with the lives of thousands of locals. The player must fight in order to defeat the group of bandits and protect the Silk Road.
The Wind Road’s historical Asian setting and often picturesque environments immediately make it comparable toGhost of Tsushima, though there are some key differences.The Wind Roadhas greater weapon variety and can be played in both first and third-person. It also has far more integral RPG elements and is closer to being aSoulslike game. In comparison,The Wind Roadtakes greater liberty with its approach to realism but remains largely grounded. The game is a great option forGhost of Tsushimafans who are bored waiting for a sequel, but it does come with some catches.
The Wind Roadfeatures a beautiful historical setting and engaging combat, but there are some downsides. There is no substantial stealth mechanic like inGhost of Tsushima, and the game’s presentation is certainly lacking in many ways. The UI is rough around the edges, and the game’s localization is sub-par. For those who want a highly polished experience like those found inPlayStation exclusives, this will likely make it a non-starter. For those who were specifically hoping for another adventure in Japan,The Wind Road’s historical setting along China’s Silk Road could also be a sticking point.
The Wind Roadis a solid action RPG that pulls from the history of martial arts and China’s most famous trade route.For fans of games with historical Asian settings, the game is a must-try. In spite of being rough around the edges, it is well worth considering, and it has a demo, so gamers can experience its combat and world before committing to it.The Wind Roadis one of the bettergames to play while waiting forRise of the RoninandGhost of Tsushima 2. It is also a great game for PC players who do not have access to the originalGhost of Tsushima.
