Summary
One of the most iconic elements of theAssassin’s Creedseries is its stealth-based gameplay, and while it hasn’t always been perfect, it’s one of the best aspects of each entry. Unfortunately, over time, the series somewhat lost its identity in this area, leaning more towardaction RPG-style open combatrather than relying on the stealth that once defined it. However,Assassin’s Creed Shadowsis now just around the corner with a renewed emphasis on stealth — whenever players are controlling Naoe, anyway. In fact,Assassin’s Creed Shadows' updated stealth system might be exactly what Sucker Punch’s upcomingGhost of Yoteineeds to offer players a more immersive and rewarding approach to stealth-based gameplay.
Ghost of Yoteiwill likely be building on its predecessor’s stealth mechanics, although what has been revealed so far looks like Atsu’s combat style might emphasize direct confrontations more than Jin’s did inGhost of Tsushima. Even if that turns out to be the case, though, Atsu is the Ghost of Yotei and will therefore be expected to take up the mantle of the stealth samurai that came before her. As such, to improve upon the stealth mechanics of its predecessor,Ghost of Yoteishould utilizeAssassin’s Creed Shadows' new stealth system, as it has the potential to offer a level of immersion and reward thatGhost of Tsushima’s stealth lacked.
Ghost of Yotei Should Utilize Assassin’s Creed Shadows' Dynamic Lighting System
Assassin’s Creed Shadows' Dynamic Lighting System Enhances Stealth Gameplay
The key component ofAssassin’s Creed Shadows' stealthis its dynamic lighting system, which is meant to enhance stealth gameplay by allowing players to utilize nearby shadows to conceal themselves. Prior toAssassin’s Creed Shadows, the player’s ability to remain undetected largely came down to an enemy’s line of sight, meaning the player would need to hide behind a wall, inside a haystack, or within tall grass to stay hidden. InAssassin’s Creed Shadows, however, the player’s visibility is decreased when they are in a shadowed area, especially at night.
To improve upon the stealth mechanics of its predecessor,Ghost of Yoteishould utilizeAssassin’s Creed Shadows' new stealth system, as it has the potential to offer a level of immersion and reward thatGhost of Tsushima’s stealth lacked.
Players can even manipulate the lighting in an area to their advantage, making stealth an even more integral part ofAssassin’s Creed Shadows' gameplay. For example, players can extinguish lanterns with shurikens to create additional shadows, all while keeping track of their visibility meter that provides real-time feedback on their stealth status. This is a far cry from what the series has done in the past, as it not only increases immersion but also puts the power of stealth directly into the palm of players' hands.
Ghost of Yotei Could Feature Its Own Take on Assassin’s Creed Shadows' Dynamic Lighting System
IfGhost of Yoteiwanted an even more immersive and rewarding approach to stealth than its predecessor featured, it could consider implementing its owndynamic lighting system likeAssassin’s Creed Shadows. Like previousAssassin’s Creedentries,Ghost of Tsushima’s stealth was largely cover-based, so something likeAC Shadows' lighting system would help improve that. Similar mechanics toAC Shadowscould be implemented inGhost of Yotei, like faster enemy detection when Atsu is in the light, the ability to use a blowgun, water-doused kunai, or gusts of wind from a fan weapon to snuff candles and torches, and certain enemies could carry lanterns.
Moonlight could also be a factor for players to consider inGhost of Yotei’s stealth, where a full moon could leave them visible if they don’t take cover.
Ultimately, integrating a dynamic lighting system like the one inAssassin’s Creed Shadowscould be anatural evolution forGhost of Yotei, refining its stealth mechanics to offer a more immersive and strategic experience. By allowing players to manipulate light and shadow, Sucker Punch could deepen the sense of agency in stealth encounters.Ghost of Tsushimaalready laid the foundation for a great stealth experience, but withGhost of Yotei, there’s an opportunity to elevate it even further by making it feel more fluid, reactive, and rewarding than ever before.
