Should I Let Shimura Live in Ghost of Tsushima? The Ultimate Guide
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The choice at the end of Ghost of Tsushima is one of the most morally complex and impactful decisions in gaming. Do you honor your uncle, Lord Shimura, and grant him a warrior’s death, or do you spare him, defying tradition and choosing your own path? There’s no easy answer, and both options offer compelling arguments. So, should you let Shimura live? Ultimately, the decision is yours and depends on your personal interpretation of Jin’s journey and the themes of the game. However, the choice to spare Shimura arguably better reflects the game’s central themes of embracing change and forging your own path, even if it means defying tradition. This article will explore the consequences of each choice, the story implications, and the rewards you receive, helping you make an informed decision.
The Weight of Honor and Duty
Understanding Lord Shimura’s Perspective
Lord Shimura represents the old guard, the embodiment of the samurai code. He believes in honor, discipline, and unwavering loyalty to the Shogun. Throughout the game, he struggles with Jin’s methods, seeing them as dishonorable and a betrayal of the samurai way. He cannot reconcile Jin’s tactics with his deeply ingrained beliefs, leading to the inevitable conflict.
The Samurai Code vs. The Ghost’s Path
The core conflict of Ghost of Tsushima lies in the tension between the rigid samurai code and the pragmatic methods Jin adopts as the Ghost. To save Tsushima, Jin must abandon tradition and embrace unconventional warfare. This creates a fundamental rift between Jin and Shimura, forcing Jin to choose between his duty to his uncle and his duty to his people.
Consequences of Your Choice
Killing Shimura: A Warrior’s Death
- Reward: The “Righteous Punishment” white dye for your Ghost Armor, Ghost Mask, and Ghost Headband.
- Story Implications: Jin grants Shimura his wish, allowing him to die with honor according to the samurai code. This reinforces the tragedy of their relationship and Jin’s internal conflict. While seemingly honorable, it also suggests Jin is still somewhat bound by the traditions he has otherwise rejected.
Sparing Shimura: Defying Tradition
- Reward: The “Vow of Vengeance” crimson red dye.
- Story Implications: Jin chooses compassion over tradition, solidifying his identity as the Ghost. This act of defiance cements his separation from the samurai code and demonstrates his commitment to protecting Tsushima, even if it means dishonoring his uncle’s wishes. Shimura is left to live with the shame of being spared, potentially facing execution by the Shogun.
Which Ending is “Better”?
There’s no objectively “better” ending. Both are emotionally resonant and have valid justifications:
- Killing Shimura can be seen as an act of mercy and respect for his deeply held beliefs. It acknowledges the importance of the samurai code, even as Jin rejects it. Some may argue that granting Shimura his wish is the honorable thing to do.
- Sparing Shimura is a more progressive and ultimately more powerful choice. It signifies Jin’s complete transformation into the Ghost, a symbol of hope and rebellion against the rigid traditions that have failed Tsushima. It emphasizes the themes of change and adaptation necessary for survival.
The Color Choice
While dyes might seem superficial, in Ghost of Tsushima, the decision can run deeper.
- White Dye: Represents a desire for purification. Also symbolizes honor and tradition.
- Red Dye: Symbolizes vengeance, anger, and resentment. Also symbolizes a willingness to break from tradition to bring vengeance.
The color you select at the end of the game will be with you for the remainder of free roam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is killing Shimura the “bad” ending?
Not necessarily. While some may view it as such because it involves taking a life, it’s more accurately described as the “honorable” ending, adhering to the samurai code. It’s a tragic ending, but not inherently “bad.”
2. Which ending is canon?
Sucker Punch has not officially declared a canon ending. However, narrative clues and potential sequel setups lean towards sparing Shimura as the more likely canon ending. This aligns with Jin’s evolution as the Ghost and opens up possibilities for future conflicts related to his status as a rebel.
3. Does my choice affect gameplay after the ending?
No. Regardless of your choice, you can continue exploring Tsushima, completing side quests, and engaging in open-world activities. The ending only affects the final cutscene and the dye you receive.
4. Can I replay the ending to see both?
Yes! Ghost of Tsushima allows you to create multiple save files. To see both endings, create a save file before making your choice and then replay the final mission.
5. Which dye is considered “better”?
Subjectively, many players and critics consider the “Vow of Vengeance” red dye the superior of the two. It’s visually striking and symbolically aligns with Jin’s rebellious spirit.
6. Does assassinating people affect the ending?
No. Your playstyle, whether you prioritize stealth or direct combat, does not influence the ending. The only factor is your final choice regarding Shimura’s fate.
7. Is there a secret ending?
No, there is no hidden or secret ending in Ghost of Tsushima. There are only the two choices presented during the final confrontation with Shimura.
8. What happens to Lord Shimura if I spare him?
If you spare him, Shimura is left to live with the disgrace of being spared. He will likely face consequences from the Shogun for failing to defeat Jin and upholding the samurai code. His fate is left ambiguous, adding to the tragic nature of the story.
9. Does Ghost of Tsushima 2 exist?
There is no official announcement of a sequel to Ghost of Tsushima. However, given the game’s critical and commercial success, it’s highly likely that a sequel is in development. No release date has been announced or even approximated as of yet.
10. Which is the right path?
While it’s a subjective question, the path where Jin chooses to spare his uncle, Lord Shimura, is considered the “right path”. This comes as Jin proves that his reasons for becoming “The Ghost” are genuine, as he still shows that he still followed samurai traditions whenever he can.
11. Is there romance in Ghost of Tsushima?
No, there is no romance in Ghost of Tsushima. While Jin forms close relationships with several characters, including Yuna, these relationships are platonic and based on mutual respect and shared experiences.
12. Why is Jin Sakai deemed a traitor?
Jin Sakai is deemed a traitor because he embraces methods that defy the samurai code, such as using poison and striking from the shadows. His actions, while effective in defeating the Mongols, are seen as dishonorable and a threat to the established order.
13. Which armor is considered the best in Ghost of Tsushima?
While personal preference plays a role, the Sarugami Armor is widely considered one of the best armors in Ghost of Tsushima. It allows the player to use a combo whenever they get a perfect parry against an enemy.
14. Can you continue playing Ghost of Tsushima after the ending?
Yes, you can still play Ghost of Tsushima even after the ending. You can still explore the island of Tsushima, complete side quests, and engage in activities in the open-world.
15. Is Shimura a good guy?
Lord Shimura is a complex character. He isn’t necessarily a “bad guy” but embodies a rigid adherence to the samurai code, which often clashes with Jin’s more pragmatic approach. He is shown as a caring and honorable man, but his negative qualities can still be seen.
Making Your Choice: A Reflection on Jin’s Journey
Ultimately, the decision of whether to kill or spare Shimura should be a reflection of your own understanding of Jin’s journey. Have you embraced the Ghost’s path wholeheartedly, or do you still see value in the traditional samurai code? Consider the following questions:
- Has Jin truly abandoned the samurai code, or is he still clinging to it in some way?
- What message do you want to send with your final act?
- What kind of legacy do you want Jin to leave behind?
There’s no right or wrong answer. Choose the ending that resonates most with you and the story you want to tell. Remember, the beauty of Ghost of Tsushima lies in the freedom to forge your own path.
No matter what ending you select, you can always continue your education at the Games Learning Society. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org today.