What Does Iki Island Add to Ghost of Tsushima?
Iki Island, a significant expansion to the critically acclaimed Ghost of Tsushima, adds a wealth of new content, narrative depth, and gameplay challenges that enhance the overall experience. It’s not just a simple map expansion; it’s a deep dive into Jin Sakai’s past and psyche, offering 10-15 hours of additional gameplay filled with new activities, compelling stories, and a distinct atmosphere. In essence, Iki Island adds a new layer of complexity and emotional resonance to the already rich world of Tsushima, making it a must-play for fans of the original game. This includes new areas to explore, unique enemies to fight, new mythic tales, and a deeper exploration of Jin Sakai’s character.
Iki Island’s Core Additions
Narrative and Character Exploration
At its heart, Iki Island is a journey into Jin Sakai’s past traumas and a re-examination of his identity as both a samurai and the Ghost. The island is haunted by the legacy of the Sakai clan’s past actions, which forces Jin to confront his family’s history and his own inner demons. This narrative emphasis provides a greater focus on Jin’s inner struggles, offering a more nuanced understanding of his character. New storylines delve deeper into Jin’s personal history, making the narrative feel even more personal than the main game.
Gameplay Enhancements and New Activities
The expansion introduces numerous new activities and features, enriching the gameplay experience. Players can discover Vanity Gear, Pillars of Honor, Shinto Shrines, Lighthouses, Hot Springs, and the elusive Wind Shrines. These new exploration elements complement the core gameplay loop, providing more variety and reasons to explore every corner of the island.
New Mythic Tales are another highlight, adding two fresh stories—The Legacy of Kazumasa Sakai and The Legend of Black Hand Riku—that are as compelling as those found in the main game. Completing these Mythic Tales grants players valuable new combat techniques and gear.
Combat Challenges
Iki Island is not just visually different, it’s also significantly more difficult than the main game, even on normal difficulty. The enemy AI is more aggressive and cunning, forcing players to adapt their combat strategies. You’ll find that you will need to use your entire arsenal of skills and tactics to survive the island’s challenges.
New Armor and Gear
The expansion also introduces several new armor sets, each with its unique advantages. Notably, the Sarugami Armor, earned through completing “The Legend of Black Hand Riku” is highly sought after for its powerful Perfect Parry and Perfect Dodge enhancements. Also included are the Armor of the Colossus, Ghost Of Sparta Armor, Yarnham Vestments Armor, and Sakai Horse Armor to allow you to change your playing style further.
Environment and Setting
Iki Island offers a stunning new environment, distinct from the main island of Tsushima. With its own unique geography, flora, and fauna, exploring the island is a visual treat. The scenery is disgustingly stunning, and adds to the immersive atmosphere that the Ghost of Tsushima series is known for. The new landscapes help make the expansion feel like more than just extra content, it feels like a new game entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Iki Island a standalone game or DLC?
Iki Island is DLC (Downloadable Content) for Ghost of Tsushima. It is not a standalone game and requires the base game to play.
2. When should I start the Iki Island expansion?
Ideally, you should begin the Iki Island expansion after completing the main story of Ghost of Tsushima. However, if you’re eager to jump in earlier, wait until at least the third act when Jin is stronger and has more abilities at his disposal.
3. How long does it take to complete Iki Island?
Focusing on the main objectives will take about 5 hours. However, if you want to achieve 100% completion, expect to spend around 13½ hours exploring the island and completing all side quests.
4. How difficult is Iki Island compared to Tsushima?
Iki Island is more difficult than the base game, even on normal difficulty. Enemies are tougher and require a more strategic approach.
5. What are the new Mythic Tales in Iki Island?
There are two new Mythic Tales: The Legacy of Kazumasa Sakai and The Legend of Black Hand Riku. These tales offer unique rewards and add to the story’s emotional depth.
6. What is the best armor in Iki Island?
The Sarugami Armor is widely considered one of the best, due to its buffs to Perfect Parry and Perfect Dodge, allowing for chain attacks and creating damage zones for the player.
7. Are there new collectibles on Iki Island?
Yes, Iki Island has several new collectibles, including Vanity Gear, Pillars of Honor, Shinto Shrines, Lighthouses, Hot Springs, and Wind Shrines.
8. Can I travel back to Tsushima from Iki Island?
Yes, you can fast travel back to Tsushima after completing Iki’s main story.
9. Are there new enemies on Iki Island?
Yes, the expansion includes new enemy types and combat encounters that will challenge even seasoned players.
10. Do I need to complete the main game to access Iki Island?
While not necessary, it’s highly recommended to complete the main game first to be properly equipped and understand the full impact of Jin’s journey.
11. What happens if I go to Iki Island before I complete the main story?
You can visit Iki Island before completing the main story; however, you may find the difficulty of the enemies to be harder. It is generally recommended that you are past Act 3 in the main campaign before heading to Iki Island.
12. Does Iki Island have its own set of side quests?
Yes, Iki Island has its own set of Tales of Iki Side Quests that are distinct from the main story. The content also includes new side quests such as the “Monkey See, Monkey Do” and “The Ghost of Iki”.
13. What is the significance of the shrines on Iki Island?
Iki Island is said to have a deep connection to the gods, with over 150 shrines on the island. They play a significant role in the lore of the game, and offer rewards to the players.
14. What is the Sakai Horse Armor?
The Sakai Horse Armor is an equippable armor that allows the player to change the visual appearance of their horse. The Iki Island armor does not appear to have different stats, instead being a different aesthetic.
15. Will there be a Ghost of Tsushima 2?
While nothing has been officially announced, Ghost of Tsushima 2 is highly anticipated. Sucker Punch Productions has not yet given any indication of a date, name or official announcement.
In conclusion, Iki Island is not just a simple expansion; it’s a robust addition to Ghost of Tsushima that enhances the gameplay, deepens the narrative, and challenges players in new ways. It provides more reasons to immerse oneself in the captivating world and the journey of Jin Sakai.