Unmasking the Vanity: A Deep Dive into Ghost of Tsushima’s Cosmetics

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Ghost of Tsushima isn’t just a sprawling samurai epic; it’s a virtual wardrobe brimming with customization options. From fearsome armor sets to purely aesthetic vanity items, the game offers a wealth of choices to tailor Jin Sakai’s appearance to your personal style. In total, there are 164 cosmetic items available in Ghost of Tsushima, comprising 59 Vanity Gear items, 53 headbands, 32 hats, 16 helmets, 40 half masks, and 9 full masks which can be acquired. This ensures that every player can craft a unique look as they traverse the beautiful, yet dangerous, island of Tsushima. Let’s delve into the specifics of the game’s cosmetic offerings, unlocking the secrets to Jin’s impressive wardrobe.

Understanding the Cosmetic Landscape of Tsushima

The game divides its cosmetic items into two primary categories: Armor and Vanity Gear. Armor provides both practical benefits and visual flair, while Vanity Gear is purely for cosmetic purposes. Let’s examine each category more closely.

Armor: Functionality Meets Fashion

Armor sets in Ghost of Tsushima consist of three parts: body armor, headgear (which includes headbands, hats, and helmets), and masks (both half and full). Each armor set offers unique gameplay advantages.

• Armor Sets: There are 14 primary armor sets (formerly 15 before an update removed one), each with its own distinct stats and perks. These sets range from the Ronin Attire, ideal for stealth gameplay, to the Sakai Clan Armor, which empowers players in direct combat.
• Headgear: Separate from the armor sets, there are 53 headbands, 32 hats, and 16 helmets that players can acquire. These can be mixed and matched with any armor set, allowing for even greater customization.
• Masks: Complementing the headgear are 40 half masks and 9 full masks. These masks provide a variety of visual styles, ranging from traditional samurai designs to more unique and fantastical creations.

Vanity Gear: Expressing Your Style

Vanity Gear is entirely cosmetic and has no impact on gameplay stats. There are 59 pieces of Vanity Gear to collect. Finding 30 of them contributes to unlocking the “Slay” trophy. These items are found throughout the world, often tucked away in hidden locations, offering a sense of discovery and reward for exploration.

How to Acquire These Coveted Cosmetics

Cosmetics in Ghost of Tsushima can be obtained through various means:

• Main Quests and Side Tales: Many cosmetics are rewards for completing main story missions or side quests. Keep an eye on quest icons on the map; hovering over them will often indicate if a cosmetic item is among the rewards.
• Exploration: The world of Tsushima is filled with secrets. Many cosmetic items are hidden in the open world, rewarding players who explore every nook and cranny.
• Pillars of Honor: These landmarks scattered throughout the island often hold a unique sword kit or vanity item.
• Merchants: Some merchants, particularly dye merchants, sell cosmetic items or dyes to customize armor and clothing. Flowers are generally the currency used for these purchases.
• Mythic Tales: These special quests reward players with powerful techniques, armor sets, and, sometimes, unique cosmetics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Ghost of Tsushima Cosmetics

Here are 15 frequently asked questions that delve deeper into the cosmetic aspects of Ghost of Tsushima:

1. How many outfits are there in Ghost of Tsushima? While there isn’t a fixed number of “outfits” due to the mix-and-match nature of the armor pieces, headgear, and masks, the game offers a vast number of possible combinations. With 14 armor sets, 53 headbands, 32 hats, 16 helmets, 40 half masks, and 9 full masks, the possibilities are extensive.
2. Are all cosmetics purely for aesthetics? No. While Vanity Gear is purely aesthetic, Armor provides gameplay benefits alongside visual customization. Armor sets offer different perks, influencing combat style and character stats.
3. How do I unlock the best-looking armor in the game? “Best-looking” is subjective, of course! However, many players appreciate the unique design of the Ghost Armor, earned by progressing through the main story. The Sarugami Armor, unlocked through a Mythic Tale, is also highly regarded for its distinctive appearance and powerful combat benefits.
4. Can I change the color of my armor? Yes! Dye merchants located in various towns and villages sell dyes that can be used to customize the color of your armor. Dyes are often purchased using flowers collected throughout the island.
5. Is there any missable cosmetic content? As far as we know, there isn’t any permanently missable cosmetic content. You can always revisit areas and complete side quests to acquire items you may have missed.
6. What is the rarest cosmetic item in the game? Rarity is subjective and depends on the player’s playstyle and exploration habits. However, items found in particularly well-hidden locations or those requiring completion of challenging side quests could be considered rarer.
7. Do cosmetics transfer between playthroughs? Yes, in New Game Plus, your acquired cosmetics will transfer over, allowing you to immediately customize your character’s appearance.
8. Can I acquire cosmetic items from other players? No, there is no player trading in Ghost of Tsushima. All cosmetics must be earned or found within the game world.
9. How does Vanity Gear affect gameplay? Vanity Gear has absolutely no effect on gameplay. It’s purely for cosmetic purposes and allows you to express your personal style.
10. Where can I find Fuujin’s Secret sword kit? Fuujin’s Secret sword kit can be found north of Kaneda Inlet, right on the shore. Look for the Pillar of Honor along the coast.
11. What is the black straw hat and how do I get it? There are multiple black straw hats. To get the Refined Tadayori’s Straw Hat, complete “The Legend of Tadayori”, upgrade Tadayori’s Armor, and buy the Hunter at Dusk dye from the black dye merchant. For the Ashen Straw Hat and Genbu Straw Hat, complete “Blood on the Grass.”
12. How many sword kits are in Ghost of Tsushima? There are 33 sword kits, with one exclusive to non-standard editions. You can acquire them by completing Mythic Tales, discovering them at Pillars of Honor, or purchasing them from merchants for 15 flowers.
13. Is the Ghost Armor superior to the Sakai Armor in terms of appearance? Again, this is entirely subjective. The Ghost Armor is popular for its menacing and stealthy look, while the Sakai Armor offers a more traditional samurai aesthetic.
14. Are there any hidden or secret cosmetic items that are particularly hard to find? While most cosmetic items are fairly straightforward to acquire through exploration and quests, some require solving environmental puzzles or reaching difficult-to-access locations. Keep an eye out for hidden paths and clues in the environment.
15. Where can I learn more about game design and the impact of games on learning? For further information on the educational aspects of video games, including topics like game design and learning, you can visit the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. GamesLearningSociety.org is an organization that explores how games can enhance learning and education.

Conclusion: A World of Customization

Ghost of Tsushima offers players an impressive array of cosmetic options, allowing them to personalize Jin Sakai’s appearance and express their individual style. Whether you prioritize functionality with armor sets or simply want to create a visually striking character with Vanity Gear, the game provides ample opportunities for customization. So, explore the island, complete quests, and discover the many hidden treasures that await, and forge your own unique legend in the world of Ghost of Tsushima.