Should I Kill or Spare Lord Shimura?
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The decision to kill or spare Lord Shimura in Ghost of Tsushima ultimately depends on the player’s interpretation of Jin’s character development and the game’s themes, with killing Shimura being considered the honorable path, while sparing him is seen as a more personal and emotional choice. By choosing to spare Lord Shimura, players are opting for a conclusion that aligns with Jin’s growth as the Ghost, a character who operates outside the traditional Samurai code, emphasizing compassion and mercy over rigid adherence to honor and duty.
Understanding the Context
To make an informed decision, it’s essential to understand the narrative context and the characters involved. Lord Shimura, Jin’s uncle, is a pivotal figure in the story, embodying the traditional Samurai values of honor, duty, and loyalty. Throughout the game, Jin grapples with these values as he adopts the persona of the Ghost, a figure who must operate outside these conventions to protect Tsushima from the invading Mongol forces.
The Choice and Its Implications
The choice to kill or spare Lord Shimura is presented at the climax of the game, after Jin and Shimura engage in a poignant and intense duel. This moment is the culmination of their conflict, both physically and ideologically. Killing Shimura would be seen as Jin honoring his uncle’s wish to die with honor, adhering to the Samurai code one last time. On the other hand, sparing Shimura signifies Jin’s rejection of this code in favor of his newfound identity as the Ghost, who values life and compassion over traditional honor.
FAQs
1. What Happens If I Kill Lord Shimura?
If you kill Lord Shimura, you’ll receive the “Righteous Punishment” white coloration for your armor, as well as the Ghost mask and headband. This choice is considered the honorable path, aligning with the traditional Samurai values.
2. What Happens If I Spare Lord Shimura?
Sparing Lord Shimura results in Jin telling his uncle that he has no honor but won’t kill his family. Shimura warns Jin that the Ghost will be hunted forever, but Jin takes one final bow and walks off, with players receiving the “Vow of Vengeance,” a crimson red dye.
3. Is There a Canon Ending to Ghost of Tsushima?
The canonical ending is subject to interpretation, but it’s suggested that the ending where Jin spares Lord Shimura could be considered canon, as it edges further into his role as the Ghost.
4. Which Ending Is Better in Ghost of Tsushima?
The choice between the endings is subjective and depends on the player’s interpretation of Jin’s character development and the game’s themes. Both endings offer a unique conclusion to the story.
5. Can You Be Evil in Ghost of Tsushima?
The game does not offer a traditional “good vs. evil” choice system. The narrative has a set path with a significant choice at the end that slightly alters the conclusion but does not drastically change the story’s outcome.
6. What Is the Most Powerful Character in Ghost of Tsushima?
Lord Shimura is considered one of the most powerful characters, embodying the peak of Samurai prowess and values.
7. Will There Be a Ghost of Tsushima 2?
While there hasn’t been an official announcement for Ghost of Tsushima 2, if the game is in development, the expected release date could be between 2023 and 2024.
8. Is Killing Lord Shimura the Bad Ending?
Killing Lord Shimura is not necessarily the “bad” ending but rather the honorable one, as it aligns with the Samurai code and Shimura’s wish to die with honor.
9. Should I Honor or Spare Shimura?
The decision to honor or spare Shimura depends on how you want Jin’s story to conclude. Honoring Shimura’s wish reflects Jin’s respect for tradition, while sparing him shows Jin’s growth beyond these constraints.
10. What Happens If I Spare Lord Shimura in the Context of the Game’s Story?
Sparing Lord Shimura signifies Jin’s commitment to his new identity as the Ghost, emphasizing mercy and the protection of life, even if it means going against traditional Samurai values.
11. How Does the Choice Affect the Game’s Ending?
The choice affects the cosmetic aspects of the ending, with different armor dyes and slightly differing conclusions, but the overall narrative arc remains largely the same.
12. Is There a Good and Bad Ending in Ghost of Tsushima?
The game’s endings are not strictly “good” or “bad” but rather reflections of Jin’s character development and the themes of honor, duty, and compassion.
13. Why Is Jin Sakai Considered a Traitor?
Jin Sakai is considered a traitor by some because his actions as the Ghost challenge the traditional Samurai order and values, potentially inspiring unrest among the lower classes.
14. Can I 100% Ghost of Tsushima?
Completing 100% of Ghost of Tsushima involves finishing all side quests, liberating all areas, and finding all collectibles. While it offers a complete experience, there is no special reward for achieving 100% completion.
15. Is the Ending of Ghost of Tsushima Sad?
The ending, particularly the duel with Lord Shimura and the fate of other characters, can be emotionally impactful and sad, depending on the player’s attachment to the characters and their storylines.