What is the Good Ending in Ghost of Tsushima?
The question of a “good” ending in Ghost of Tsushima isn’t as straightforward as a simple victory screen. Instead, it hinges on a deeply personal choice presented at the culmination of the game’s narrative: whether to honor Lord Shimura’s request for a warrior’s death or to spare his life. While both options offer unique rewards and resonate with different interpretations of Jin Sakai’s journey, the consensus, reinforced by the game’s developers, points to sparing Lord Shimura as the “good” or, more accurately, the “canon” ending. This choice reflects Jin’s ultimate rejection of the rigid samurai code and his embrace of the path of the Ghost, a path forged in necessity and ultimately, compassion. Choosing to spare Shimura allows Jin to fully step into his role as protector of Tsushima, free from the constraints of outdated traditions.
Analyzing the Ending Options
The final confrontation with Lord Shimura is loaded with emotional weight. He is not only Jin’s uncle but also the man who raised him and instilled in him the values of the samurai. Yet, their paths diverge due to the unconventional tactics Jin employs as the Ghost – tactics that Lord Shimura deems dishonorable. He asks Jin for a clean death, a final act of honor to erase the “stain” Jin has brought to their family name.
The “Kill” Ending: Righteous Punishment
Choosing to kill Lord Shimura results in Jin fulfilling his uncle’s final wish, adhering to the samurai code. This path appears initially honorable, a respectful end to a mentor. The in-game reward for this choice is the “Righteous Punishment” dye, a white coloration for the Ghost Armor, Ghost Mask, and Headband. This white dye symbolizes the traditional samurai values of purity and righteousness, further cementing the idea that you have adhered to the code. However, despite the apparent honor, this choice essentially affirms a system that has proven incapable of protecting Tsushima. It reinforces the idea of tradition over pragmatism, and ultimately, it denies Jin’s growth as a character.
The “Spare” Ending: Vow of Vengeance
The alternative, and the ending considered “canon,” is to spare Lord Shimura. This is a decision rooted in compassion and a break from the very code he sought to uphold. Here, Jin acknowledges the flawed nature of that code and chooses to prioritize his own path. He accepts that the needs of Tsushima and its people necessitate a departure from rigid tradition. The game rewards this decision with the “Vow of Vengeance” dye, a striking crimson red, applied to the Ghost Armor. This red dye represents the fiery spirit of rebellion and Jin’s unyielding commitment to defending his people, irrespective of outdated codes. This choice is perceived as the “better” ending because it represents Jin embracing his evolution and choosing compassion over duty.
Why Sparing Shimura is the Canon Ending
The game’s developers have explicitly stated that the canon ending is the one where Jin spares Shimura’s life. This isn’t just a matter of preference; it is intended to reflect the thematic core of the game. Ghost of Tsushima is a story about a man who is forced to evolve, to embrace methods that are deemed dishonorable by his former standards, in order to survive and protect his people. To kill Shimura would essentially negate this evolution, keeping Jin tied to an honor code that fails him and his land.
Sparing Shimura symbolizes Jin’s ultimate rejection of the samurai code as an absolute ideal. He understands that true honor lies in compassion and in doing what is necessary, even if that means defying tradition. It also highlights the tragedy of Shimura who is unable to adapt to the changing situation and becomes stuck with outdated ideals. This ending allows for a richer and more nuanced narrative, one where Jin becomes fully realized as the Ghost, the protector of Tsushima.
Consequences of Either Ending
Importantly, neither ending drastically alters the post-game world or gameplay. The primary difference lies in the cosmetic rewards, namely the white or red dye for the Ghost Armor. This emphasizes that the real significance of the choice is not in its mechanical impact but in its narrative and thematic weight. However, this decision might influence the direction of a potential sequel, wherein the choices we make at the end of the game could come into play.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the endings of Ghost of Tsushima:
1. Is there a good and bad ending in Ghost of Tsushima?
While neither ending is inherently “bad,” the canon and generally considered “good” ending is to spare Lord Shimura. This ending aligns more closely with Jin’s character arc and the game’s themes.
2. Does the ending matter in Ghost of Tsushima?
The ending doesn’t significantly impact the post-game world or gameplay. Its main effect is the acquisition of either the white (“Righteous Punishment”) or red (“Vow of Vengeance”) dye for the Ghost Armor. Its main impact is on the overall theme and Jin’s character arc.
3. Which ending is canon in Ghost of Tsushima?
The canon ending is confirmed by the developers to be sparing Lord Shimura. This is the ending that best aligns with the themes of the game.
4. What happens if you let Shimura live?
Letting Shimura live awards you the “Vow of Vengeance” red dye for the Ghost Armor and solidifies Jin’s choice to forsake outdated traditions.
5. What happens if you kill Shimura?
Killing Shimura gives you the “Righteous Punishment” white dye, a cosmetic reward that symbolizes Jin’s adherence to traditional samurai values.
6. Which ending is better, killing or sparing Shimura?
The “Spare” ending is often seen as better because it allows for Jin’s character to fully evolve into the Ghost and it allows the game’s theme of rejecting the old ways to better shine.
7. What is the significance of the white dye?
The white “Righteous Punishment” dye is associated with the traditional samurai code and the perceived honor in killing Shimura.
8. What is the significance of the red dye?
The red “Vow of Vengeance” dye symbolizes Jin’s break from the samurai code and his embrace of the Ghost’s path. It represents rebellion and determination.
9. Can you change the ending after completing it?
You cannot change the ending choice after making it on your initial playthrough. You would need to start a new game to see the alternative ending.
10. Does the ending affect a potential Ghost of Tsushima sequel?
While the ending has no direct effect on the game itself, there’s speculation that the choice to spare or kill Shimura may influence the narrative of a potential sequel.
11. Is killing Shimura the bad ending?
While it might be seen as honorable in a traditional samurai sense, killing Shimura is not the “bad” ending but it goes against the spirit of the main character’s arc.
12. How does the weather in the game change with the style you play?
Playing more dishonorably can cause the weather to change in the game, reflecting Jin’s choices. While playing more honorably keeps the weather clear.
13. Does choosing the honorable path matter in Ghost of Tsushima?
Choosing the honorable path or not does not drastically change the game, its impact on the weather is the only difference you will see.
14. Is the Hero of Tsushima Armor worth using?
The Hero of Tsushima Armor, obtainable through pre-ordering the game, has significant health and damage resistance but it cannot be upgraded, making it ultimately less useful than the Samurai Armor.
15. Do Jin and Yuna get together romantically?
Despite growing close, the relationship between Jin and Yuna is not romantic. Their bond is based on mutual support and shared trauma.
Conclusion
The “good” ending in Ghost of Tsushima, is not about adhering to an outdated code, but about embracing change, compassion, and the spirit of rebellion when necessary. The choice to spare Lord Shimura is a testament to Jin Sakai’s growth as an individual and his dedication to protecting Tsushima, regardless of traditional expectations. This choice, recognized as the canon ending, allows Jin to fully embody the Ghost and makes for a more thematically resonant and powerful narrative experience. It is through this choice that we see Jin truly becoming the legend that history will remember him to be.