Red Dead Redemption 2 vs Ghost of Tsushima

• Perspective: Third-Person (Default), First-Person (Optional)
• Multiplayer: Red Dead Online (Persistent Open World, Co-op Missions, PvP Modes, Roles)
• Setting: Fictionalized American West, 1899 (Ambarino, New Hanover, Lemoyne, West Elizabeth, New Austin)
• Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Google Stadia
• Unique Feature: Incredible World Detail & Immersion, Deep Character Interactions, Honor System, Realistic Survival Mechanics, Dynamic Wildlife Ecosystem, Dead Eye Targeting System.

• Perspective: Third-Person
• Multiplayer: Ghost of Tsushima: Legends (Cooperative Story, Survival, Rivals, Raid)
• Setting: Tsushima Island, Japan, 1274 (Kamakura Period)
• Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC (Windows)
• Unique Feature: Samurai vs. Ghost Combat Styles, Standoff Mechanic, Guiding Wind Navigation, Stunning Kurosawa-inspired Visuals, Iki Island Expansion (Director's Cut).

• Van der Linde Gang Members (Contextual AI): While not directly commandable like 'Guns for Hire' in Far Cry, various members of the Van der Linde gang will accompany Arthur on specific story missions, providing combat support, dialogue, and unique interactions. Their presence and abilities are scripted based on the mission. Key members like Charles, Sadie, John, Lenny, Bill, and Javier frequently ride with Arthur.
  Human
• Your Horse (Primary Mount): Arthur's primary means of transport and a crucial companion. Bonding with a horse (by feeding, patting, brushing) increases its Health and Stamina, unlocks special maneuvers (drifting, piaffe), and makes it less likely to buck Arthur off when scared. Horses can carry pelts, carcasses, and an extra outfit. Different breeds have varying base stats (speed, acceleration, health, stamina).
  Equus caballus (Various Breeds)
• Temporary Dog Companions: In certain situations or with specific camp dogs (like Cain), Arthur can interact with them, and they might follow him for a short period or alert him to nearby points of interest or danger. They are not combat companions in the traditional sense.
  Canis familiaris

• Your Horse (Nobu / Kage / Sora - Player Named): Jin's loyal steed and primary means of transport across Tsushima. Can be called with a whistle. Allows for mounted combat (slashing with katana, archery). Can be equipped with different saddles (cosmetic/minor stat changes). Its name and initial color are chosen by the player early in the game.
  Equus caballus (Japanese Breeds)
• Guiding Wind: While not a character, the Guiding Wind is a unique navigational tool. Players can select a tracked objective or point of interest on the map, and then swipe the touchpad (or press a key) to summon a gust of wind that visually guides them in the correct direction, replacing a traditional mini-map for primary navigation.
  Natural Phenomenon / Spiritual Guidance
• Golden Birds: These birds occasionally appear and fly towards nearby points of interest, such as collectibles, hot springs, shrines, or hidden locations, acting as organic guides for exploration.
  Bird (Oriole-like)
• Foxes (Inari Messengers): Found at Fox Dens (Inari Shrines). Petting a fox will cause it to lead Jin to a hidden Inari Shrine that needs to be honored. They are guides to specific collectibles.
  Vulpes vulpes japonica (Japanese Red Fox)
• Story-Specific AI Companions (Yuna, Ishikawa, Masako, Norio, Kenji, Taka): During their respective 'Tales of Tsushima' (character-specific questlines) and some main story missions, key allies like Yuna, Sensei Ishikawa, Lady Masako, and Norio will accompany Jin, providing combat support according to their skills (e.g., Yuna uses stealth and her knife, Ishikawa is an archer, Masako a skilled samurai). Their presence is scripted for those missions.
  Human
• Legends Mode Teammates (Online Players or AI): In the Ghost of Tsushima: Legends co-op multiplayer mode, players team up with up to three other players (or AI companions if playing solo in some modes). Each class has unique abilities and ultimate attacks, requiring teamwork to overcome waves of Oni and complete objectives.
  Human (Player Characters - Samurai, Hunter, Ronin, Assassin)

• Dinosaur Bones: 30 fossilized dinosaur bones hidden across the map. Players find them and mail their coordinates to the paleontologist Deborah MacGuiness to complete a side quest chain and receive unique rewards, including a Jawbone Knife and a Jawbone Trinket.
• Cigarette Cards: 144 collectible cards (12 sets of 12 cards each) found in cigarette packs throughout the world or as individual finds. Collecting full sets and mailing them to Phileas T. Ramsbottom yields monetary rewards and unique items.
• Dreamcatchers: 20 dreamcatchers hanging from trees in specific locations. Finding all of them reveals a depiction of a buffalo on a cave wall and unlocks the Ancient Arrowhead perk, which doubles stamina while using the bow.
• Rock Carvings: 10 intricate carvings on rock faces, part of the 'Geology for Beginners' stranger mission. Mailing their coordinates to Francis Sinclair leads to a mysterious encounter and rewards.
• Legendary Fish: 13 unique, massive fish that can be caught in specific bodies of water using special lures, part of Jeremy Gill's 'A Fisher of Fish' stranger mission. Mailing them back rewards money and unique fishing gear.
• Graves: 9 graves of fallen companions can be found and interacted with after certain points in the story, contributing to 100% completion and offering moments of reflection.
• Points of Interest (Sketches): 50 unique locations, animals, or events that Arthur can observe and sketch in his journal, adding to its detail and contributing to completion.
• Exotic Items (for Algernon Wasp): Various rare bird plumes, orchids, and alligator eggs requested by the eccentric Algernon Wasp in Saint Denis for his 'Duchesses and other Animals' stranger mission series, rewarding unique items like the Exotic Hat.
• Treasure Maps & Hidden Treasures: Series of maps leading to hidden stashes of gold bars or valuable items. Some are part of stranger missions, others are found through exploration.

• Records of Tsushima (Scrolls): Lore scrolls found throughout Tsushima, providing historical accounts, personal stories, and cultural details about the island and its people. Collecting them contributes to world understanding.
• Mongol Artifacts: Items related to the Mongol invaders, such as helmets, banners, and documents. Found primarily in Mongol-controlled camps and territories. Collecting them provides insight into the enemy and rewards.
• Singing Crickets: Crickets kept in small cages, found in graveyards and other serene locations. Collecting them unlocks new flute melodies for Jin to play, which can influence the weather.
• Inari Shrines (Fox Dens): Small shrines dedicated to Inari, the fox deity. Players follow a fox from a Fox Den to a hidden shrine. Honoring these shrines (by bowing) grants Minor Charms and eventually increases the number of Charm slots Jin can use.
• Hot Springs: Natural hot springs where Jin can bathe and reflect on his journey. Each unique hot spring visited permanently increases Jin's maximum health.
• Bamboo Strikes: Sets of bamboo poles that Jin can practice cutting with his katana. Successfully completing the button-pressing mini-game increases Jin's maximum Resolve.
• Shinto Shrines (Major Charms): Large, often dilapidated shrines located in high, hard-to-reach places, requiring platforming and sometimes grappling to access. Honoring the shrine at the top rewards Jin with a Major Charm (powerful passive buff).
• Haiku Spots: Scenic locations where Jin can compose a haiku by selecting phrases that reflect his thoughts and the environment. Rewards a unique Headband.
• Pillars of Honor: Locations marked by a pillar with embedded swords. Honoring these rewards Jin with a new Sword Kit (cosmetic customization for his katana and tanto).
• Lighthouses: Several lighthouses along the coast. Re-igniting them provides a small amount of Legend increase and clears fog of war.
• Vanity Gear (Masks, Headbands, Sword Kits): Cosmetic items found at Pillars of Honor, as Haiku rewards, or purchased from merchants. Allow for personalization of Jin's appearance.
• Sashimono Banners: Collectible banners of fallen samurai clans, scattered throughout Tsushima. Collecting them for a specific NPC rewards saddle customization for Jin's horse.

• The End of the Wild West
• Loyalty vs. Morality
• Redemption
• Betrayal
• Outlaw Life
• Civilization vs. Wilderness
• Honor
• Family (Found & Blood)
• Consequences of Actions
• Nature & Survival
• Industrialization

• Samurai Honor vs. Pragmatic Warfare (The Ghost)
• Invasion & Resistance
• Sacrifice & Loss
• Japanese Culture & Feudalism
• Revenge
• The Cost of War
• Nature & Beauty
• Inner Conflict
• Tradition vs. Adaptation

• Revolvers: Sidearm (Single/Double Action)
  Iconic Western sidearms like the Cattleman Revolver, Schofield Revolver, Double-Action Revolver. Customizable with grips, barrel lengths, metals, and engravings. Can be dual-wielded.
• Pistols: Sidearm (Semi-Automatic)
  Early semi-automatic pistols such as the Mauser Pistol, Semi-Automatic Pistol, Volcanic Pistol. Offer faster fire rates than revolvers. Customizable and dual-wieldable.
• Repeaters: Rifle (Lever/Bolt Action, Medium Range)
  Versatile rifles like the Lancaster Repeater, Litchfield Repeater, Carbine Repeater. Good balance of damage, range, and fire rate. Mainstays for combat.
• Rifles: Rifle (Bolt/Single Shot, Long Range)
  Includes the Bolt Action Rifle, Springfield Rifle, Rolling Block Rifle (Sniper). Powerful and accurate for long-range engagements and big game hunting.
• Shotguns: Close Quarters (High Damage)
  Pump-Action Shotgun, Semi-Auto Shotgun, Double-Barreled Shotgun, Sawed-Off Shotgun. Devastating at close range, with different ammo types (slugs, incendiary).
• Sniper Rifles: Very Long Range (Scoped)
  Specialized long-range rifles like the Carcano Rifle and Rolling Block Rifle (when scoped). Used for precision kills from extreme distances.
• Bows: Silent Ranged
  A versatile weapon for silent hunting and stealth combat. Can use standard, improved, small game, poison, fire, and dynamite arrows.
• Melee Weapons: Close Quarters (Silent/Brutal)
  Includes various knives (Hunting Knife, Jawbone Knife), hatchets, cleavers, and the Machete. Used for stealth takedowns and brutal close combat.
• Throwables: Tactical/Explosive
  Dynamite (standard, volatile), Fire Bottles (Molotovs), Tomahawks (standard, homing, improved), Throwing Knives (standard, improved, poison).
• Lasso: Utility/Non-Lethal
  Used to hogtie enemies or animals, drag people, or pull objects. Essential for bounty hunting.

• Katana (Sakai Steel / Sakai Storm): Primary Melee (Slashing/Piercing)
  Jin Sakai's ancestral katana, his primary weapon for samurai combat. Its effectiveness is enhanced by mastering different combat stances (Stone, Water, Wind, Moon) and upgrading its damage and appearance. Can be used for parries, dodges, and powerful charged attacks.
• Tanto: Secondary Melee (Stealth/Critical)
  A short blade used for stealth assassinations (from behind, above, or through shoji doors) and for delivering critical strikes to staggered or downed enemies.
• Half Bow: Ranged (Fast, Short-to-Mid Range)
  A smaller bow that allows for quicker aiming and firing, suitable for mid-range combat and rapid shots. Can use standard arrows and fire arrows.
• Longbow: Ranged (Powerful, Long Range, Armor Piercing)
  A larger, more powerful bow for long-range precision shots. Can use heavy arrows (for armor penetration) and explosive arrows. Slower draw speed but higher damage.
• Ghost Weapons (Kunai, Smoke Bombs, Sticky Bombs, Wind Chimes, Black Powder Bombs): Throwable Tactical Tools
  A set of tools used for stealth, crowd control, and dishonorable (Ghost) tactics. Kunai stagger enemies, Smoke Bombs provide cover for escapes or assassinations, Sticky Bombs adhere to enemies, Wind Chimes distract, and Black Powder Bombs deal area damage. Upgradable for increased capacity and effectiveness.
• Blowgun (Iki Island Expansion): Ranged (Stealth, Status Effects)
  A silent weapon introduced in the Iki Island expansion, capable of firing darts that can poison enemies, make them berserk (attack anyone), or have other status effects.
• Charms (Equippable): Passive Buffs
  While not weapons, Charms are equipped to provide various passive bonuses to Jin's combat abilities, defense, stealth, archery, or utility (e.g., increased health, more Resolve gain, chance to terrify enemies). Major and Minor charm slots are unlocked by honoring Inari Shrines.

• Clothing Outfits & Individual Pieces: Arthur Morgan can wear a vast array of clothing items (hats, coats, shirts, vests, pants, boots, gloves, neckwear, suspenders, chaps, spurs). While primarily cosmetic and for role-playing, some outfits or pieces provide minor benefits like temperature resistance (e.g., warmer clothes for cold weather). There isn't a traditional 'armor' system for damage reduction through clothing. Players can save custom outfits.
• Reinforced Equipment (Crafted by Pearson): Using perfect animal pelts and other materials, Pearson at the gang camp can craft reinforced equipment: Bandoliers (increase ammo capacity), Satchels (increase carrying capacity for provisions, tonics, ingredients, materials, valuables, kits), Gun Belts, and Holsters (cosmetic and potentially minor stat boosts like weapon degradation speed). These are crucial for practical upgrades.
• Talismans & Trinkets (Crafted by Fence): Crafted at a Fence using parts from Legendary Animals and unique collectible items. These provide permanent passive buffs to Arthur's core stats (Health, Stamina, Dead Eye), experience gain, weapon degradation, money earned, or other gameplay aspects. They are equipped and offer significant, though often subtle, advantages.
• Tonics (Consumable Buffs): Various craftable or purchasable tonics provide temporary boosts or full restoration to Health, Stamina, and Dead Eye cores and bars. Potent versions offer stronger effects or fortification (slowing core drain). These act as temporary 'armor' or performance enhancers.

• Samurai Armor Sets (e.g., Samurai Clan Armor, Sakai Clan Armor, Gosaku's Armor, Kensei Armor): Various sets of traditional samurai armor, each consisting of a helmet, body armor, and sometimes gauntlets/greaves (cosmetically part of the body piece). Each set provides unique perks tailored to specific playstyles (e.g., increased health and melee damage, better defense, Resolve gains, stagger resistance). Armor can be upgraded by Armorers to improve its stats and unlock more potent versions of its perks. Dyeable at merchants.
• Ghost Armor Set: A unique armor set acquired as Jin embraces the Ghost persona. Focuses on stealth, reducing enemy detection speed, increasing Terrify chance, and other Ghost-related perks. Visually distinct and upgradable.
• Traveler's Attire: An outfit focused on exploration. Perks include clearing more fog of war on the map, vibrating the controller near collectibles (Artifacts), and allowing Jin to direct the Guiding Wind to specific collectible types. Upgradable.
• Ronin Attire / Kensei Attire (Duel-focused): Outfits that often provide bonuses to melee damage, Resolve gains, or benefits during Standoffs and duels.
• Various Other Outfits (e.g., Fundoshi - for comedic effect, Broken Armor - story related): A range of other outfits with varying or no statistical benefits, some are purely cosmetic or tied to specific story moments or challenges.
• Masks (Various Samurai Menpo, Ghost Mask, Thief's Wrap, etc.): Cosmetic headwear items that can be equipped with any armor set. Do not typically provide stats but are key for visual customization and role-playing.
• Headbands (Hachimaki): Cosmetic items that Jin can find or earn. Worn on the forehead, often with poetic inscriptions. Do not provide stats but add to character appearance.

• Full Outfits: Players can purchase or unlock numerous pre-designed outfits (e.g., 'The Gunslinger', 'The Valentine', 'The Saint Denis'). Arthur also starts with several outfits. Outfits can be stored on his horse.
• Individual Clothing Pieces: Extensive customization is possible by mixing and matching individual items: Hats, Coats (various lengths and materials), Shirts, Vests, Pants, Boots, Gloves, Neckwear (bandanas, ties, neckerchiefs), Suspenders, Chaps, Spurs. Items have different styles, colors, and can be purchased from general stores or tailors, or crafted by the Trapper from Legendary Animal pelts.
• Weapon Equipment: Gun Belts, Off-Hand Holsters, and Bandoliers can be equipped and upgraded. While some offer stat benefits (ammo capacity from bandoliers), many are also cosmetic choices.
• Grooming: Arthur's hair and beard grow dynamically over time. Players can visit barbers to get haircuts, shaves, or style their hair and beard in various ways. Pomade can be applied for a slicked look.
• Temperature System: Clothing choices impact Arthur's resistance to cold and hot weather. Wearing appropriate attire (e.g., heavy coats in snowy mountains, lighter shirts in hot swamps) prevents negative effects on Health Core drain. Outfits can be saved with specific temperature ratings.

• Samurai Armor Sets (Sakai Clan Armor, Gosaku's Armor, Samurai Clan Armor, Kensei Armor, Sarugami Armor - DLC, etc.): Jin can acquire numerous sets of traditional samurai armor. Each set consists of a helmet, mask, and body armor, offering unique perks tailored to samurai combat (e.g., increased melee damage, health, Resolve gains, stagger resistance). Armor can be upgraded by Armorers to improve stats and unlock more potent perks. Dyes can be purchased or found to change the color scheme of most armor sets.
• Ghost Armor Set: A unique armor set reflecting Jin's adoption of stealth tactics. Perks include reducing enemy detection speed, increasing the chance to Terrify enemies after assassinations, and other Ghost-related benefits. Visually distinct and upgradable, with dye options.
• Traveler's Attire / Ronin Attire / Other Outfits: Various other outfits that Jin can wear, offering different perks and aesthetics. Traveler's Attire is focused on exploration (clearing fog of war, finding collectibles). Ronin Attire often boosts melee damage or Resolve. Many outfits are rewards for completing quests or liberating territories.
• Masks (Samurai Menpo, Ghost Mask, Thief's Wrap, Demonic Masks, etc.): A wide variety of cosmetic masks that Jin can wear with any armor set. Found as collectibles, purchased from merchants, or earned as quest rewards. They do not typically offer stat bonuses but are key for visual customization and role-playing.
• Headbands (Hachimaki): Cosmetic headbands with various designs and inscriptions. Found as collectibles by following Guiding Wind to Pillars of Honor, or as quest rewards. Do not provide stats.
• Sword Kits (Katana & Tanto Scabbards/Hilts): Cosmetic items that change the appearance of Jin's katana (Sakai Storm) and tanto scabbards (saya) and hilts (tsuka). Found at Pillars of Honor or purchased from merchants.
• Saddle (for Horse): Jin can choose different saddles for his horse, which are primarily cosmetic but are acquired as story progression or rewards.

Arthur Morgan's core attributes (Health, Stamina, Dead Eye) level up through gameplay actions (e.g., running increases stamina, headshots increase Dead Eye). Gear upgrades (bandoliers, satchels, holsters) are crafted by Pearson at the gang camp using animal pelts and other materials, increasing carrying capacity. Weapons can be customized extensively (barrels, sights, stocks, wraps, engravings) and cleaned to maintain performance. Tonics and provisions provide temporary buffs. Horse bonding is crucial, unlocking new maneuvers and increasing horse stats. Camp upgrades provide benefits like better provisions and fast travel.

The game world is exceptionally large, detailed, and diverse. Regions include the snowy mountains of Ambarino, the heartland plains and forests of New Hanover, the swampy bayous and antebellum towns of Lemoyne, the developing plains and forests of West Elizabeth, and the arid deserts and canyons of New Austin (largely based on the map from the first Red Dead Redemption). Each region has unique ecosystems, wildlife, towns, and points of interest.

Tsushima Island is a large, stunningly beautiful open world divided into three main regions that unlock progressively: Izuhara (southern region, lush forests, farmlands), Toyotama (central region, swamps, coastal areas, more developed towns), and Kamiagata (northern region, snowy mountains, desolate landscapes). Each region is filled with diverse biomes, Mongol-occupied territories, villages, shrines, hot springs, and points of interest. The world is designed to be explored on horseback or foot, with an emphasis on natural beauty and environmental storytelling. The Iki Island expansion (Director's Cut) adds a new, smaller island with its own distinct environment and storyline. The main island of Tsushima is estimated to be around 27-30 sq km, with Iki Island adding to this.

• Horses (Various Breeds): Primary Mount / Living Vehicle
  The main mode of transportation. Over 19 breeds available, each with different stats (Health, Stamina, Speed, Acceleration) and handling. Can be bought, stolen, or tamed from the wild. Bonding with a horse improves its stats and unlocks maneuvers. Horses can carry pelts and carcasses.
• Wagons & Coaches: Horse-Drawn Vehicle
  Various types of wagons (small carts, supply wagons, oil tankers) and passenger coaches (stagecoaches, buggies). Can be driven by the player, stolen, or used in missions. Some are armored or have specific functions.
• Trains: Rail Vehicle
  Fully operational steam trains run on a schedule across the map. Players can ride trains as passengers (a form of fast travel), rob them, or even drive them for a short period if hijacked.
• Boats (Canoes, Rowboats, Small Steamboats): Watercraft
  Used for navigating rivers, lakes, and swamps. Includes simple canoes and rowboats for personal transport or fishing, and occasionally small, armed steamboats in specific missions or locations.
• Handcar: Manual Rail Vehicle
  A manually operated rail vehicle found on certain railway lines, can be used for short-distance travel along tracks.

• Your Horse (Nobu / Kage / Sora - Player Named): Primary Mount / Living Vehicle
  Jin's loyal steed, chosen by the player early in the game (name and one of three initial coat colors). Essential for traversing the vast island of Tsushima. Can be called with a whistle. Allows for mounted combat (slashing with katana, archery). Can be equipped with different saddles which are primarily cosmetic but sometimes tied to quest rewards.
• Grappling Hook: Traversal Tool (Personal Gear)
  A tool Jin acquires that allows him to swing across gaps, latch onto specific anchor points to ascend or descend cliffs, and create new pathways in certain environments. Also used contextually in some combat takedowns.
• Mongol War Machines (Catapults, Hwacha - Enemy Controlled): Siege Weaponry (Hostile)
  The Mongols utilize siege weapons like catapults and hwachas (multiple rocket arrow launchers) in their larger camps and during specific assaults. Jin typically needs to destroy or disable these rather than operate them.
• Small Boats / Fishing Boats (Environmental): Minor Watercraft
  Small boats are sometimes found along coastlines or rivers. While Jin can swim, these boats are generally not player-controlled for extended travel but are part of the environmental dressing or very specific, short scripted sequences.

• Deer (Whitetail Deer, Mule Deer, Buck): Cervidae
  Prey, Hunting Resource (Meat, Pelts, Antlers)
• Bison (American Bison): Bovinae
  Large Herbivore, Herd Animal, Hunting Resource (Meat, Pelts, Horns)
• Bears (Grizzly Bear, Black Bear): Ursidae
  Hostile Apex Predator, Dangerous, Hunting Resource (Meat, Pelts, Claws)
• Wolves (Gray Wolf, Timber Wolf): Canidae
  Hostile Pack Predator, Hunting Resource (Meat, Pelts)
• Cougars & Panthers (Florida Panther): Felidae
  Hostile Apex Predator (Stealthy), Dangerous, Hunting Resource (Meat, Pelts)
• Alligators (American Alligator): Alligatoridae
  Hostile Ambush Predator (Waterways/Swamps), Hunting Resource (Meat, Skin, Tooth)
• Snakes (Various species like Rattlesnakes, Water Snakes, Copperheads): Serpentes
  Hostile (Venomous), Hunting Resource (Skin, Meat for poison crafting)
• Birds (Eagles, Hawks, Owls, Vultures, Ducks, Geese, Songbirds, etc.): Aves (Numerous)
  Ambient Wildlife, Hunting Resource (Feathers, Meat, Carcasses for crafting/selling)
• Fish (Numerous species like Largemouth Bass, Sockeye Salmon, Northern Pike, Catfish): Pisces (Numerous)
  Aquatic Wildlife, Fishing Resource (Meat for cooking/selling)
• Horses (Various Breeds: Arabian, Thoroughbred, Mustang, Morgan, etc.): Equus caballus
  Primary Mount, Companion, Wild (can be tamed), Purchasable
• Legendary Animals (Legendary Grizzly Bear, Legendary Buck, Legendary Coyote, etc.): Unique Rare Variants
  Challenging Hunts, Provide unique pelts/parts for crafting special outfits and talismans/trinkets (which grant passive buffs).
• Other common wildlife (Rabbits, Squirrels, Foxes, Coyotes, Badgers, Raccoons, Opossums, Boars, Elk, Moose, Pronghorn, Bighorn Sheep, Goats, Muskrats, Beavers, Armadillos, Gila Monsters, Iguanas, Turtles, Frogs, Bats, etc.): Various Mammals, Reptiles, Amphibians
  Ambient Wildlife, Hunting Resource (Pelts, Meat, other parts for crafting, provisions, or sale)

• Arthur Morgan: Protagonist / Van der Linde Gang Enforcer
  The player-controlled character. A loyal, highly capable senior member of the Van der Linde gang since he was a boy. He is Dutch's right-hand man and enforcer, but begins to question Dutch's leadership and his own morality as the gang's situation becomes more desperate. Known for his rugged pragmatism and internal conflict.
• Dutch van der Linde: Antagonist / Leader of the Van der Linde Gang
  The charismatic, intelligent, and idealistic leader of the gang. He preaches a philosophy of freedom and anti-establishment, but his methods become increasingly violent and his judgment erratic as pressures mount, leading to his descent into paranoia and tyranny.
• John Marston: Supporting Character / Van der Linde Gang Member (Protagonist of RDR1)
  A fellow gang member, younger than Arthur, with a wife (Abigail) and son (Jack). His desire to leave the outlaw life for his family creates tension within the gang. His story in RDR2 serves as a prequel to his role in the original Red Dead Redemption.
• Sadie Adler: Supporting Character / Van der Linde Gang Member (Later Bounty Hunter)
  A widow whose ranch is attacked by the O'Driscoll Boys. She is rescued by the Van der Linde gang and evolves from a grieving victim into a fierce, independent gunslinger and bounty hunter, becoming one of Arthur's most trusted allies.
• Micah Bell: Antagonist / Van der Linde Gang Member
  A volatile, violent, and self-serving newer member of the gang. He encourages Dutch's worst impulses and is a source of internal conflict and distrust, ultimately playing a major antagonistic role.
• Hosea Matthews: Supporting Character / Van der Linde Gang Consigliere
  Dutch's oldest friend, co-founder of the gang, and its seasoned con artist and strategist. He often serves as a voice of reason and moderation, trying to temper Dutch's recklessness.
• Charles Smith: Supporting Character / Van der Linde Gang Member
  A quiet, highly skilled hunter and fighter of mixed African American and Native American heritage. He is honorable, principled, and one of Arthur's most dependable allies.
• Lenny Summers: Supporting Character / Van der Linde Gang Member
  A young, educated, and relatively idealistic member of the gang. Provides some lighter moments and represents a younger generation of outlaws.
• Abigail Roberts (Marston): Supporting Character / Van der Linde Gang Member
  John Marston's wife and mother of Jack. A strong-willed woman who desires a normal life for her family away from the gang.
• Bill Williamson, Javier Escuella, Uncle, Leopold Strauss, Susan Grimshaw, Molly O'Shea, Karen Jones, Mary-Beth Gaskill, Tilly Jackson, Simon Pearson, Josiah Trelawny, Kieran Duffy, Reverend Swanson, Sean MacGuire: Supporting Characters / Van der Linde Gang Members & Associates
  The diverse ensemble cast making up the rest of the Van der Linde gang, each with their own personalities, backstories, and roles within the camp and story.
• Agent Andrew Milton & Agent Edgar Ross: Antagonists / Pinkerton Detectives
  Senior Pinkerton National Detective Agency agents relentlessly pursuing the Van der Linde gang. Milton is the primary pursuer in RDR2, with Ross (antagonist of RDR1) playing a supporting role.
• Colm O'Driscoll: Antagonist / Leader of the O'Driscoll Boys Gang
  The leader of a rival gang and a long-standing nemesis of Dutch van der Linde.

• Jin Sakai (The Ghost): Protagonist / Samurai Lord
  The main playable character. Nephew of Lord Shimura and one of the last samurai on Tsushima after the initial Mongol invasion. Forced to abandon the samurai code of honor to adopt stealthy, unconventional 'Ghost' tactics to fight the invaders and save his people, leading to internal conflict and a clash with tradition.
• Lord Shimura: Supporting Character / Antagonist Figure / Jito of Tsushima
  Jin's uncle and a respected samurai lord, the jito (steward) of Tsushima. He represents traditional samurai honor and Bushido. While initially an ally, his rigid adherence to the code clashes with Jin's Ghost methods, leading to a profound ideological and personal conflict.
• Khotun Khan: Main Antagonist / Mongol General
  The cunning, ruthless, and intelligent leader of the Mongol invasion force. He studies Japanese culture and warfare to exploit Tsushima's weaknesses, serving as Jin's primary adversary.
• Yuna: Ally / Thief & Survivor
  A skilled thief who rescues Jin after the initial battle. She is pragmatic and resourceful, advocating for more practical methods to fight the Mongols, and encourages Jin to embrace the Ghost persona. Her primary motivation is protecting her younger brother, Taka.
• Taka: Ally / Blacksmith
  Yuna's younger brother, a talented blacksmith who becomes essential for upgrading Jin's gear. He is captured by the Mongols, and his rescue is a key objective.
• Sensei Ishikawa: Ally / Legendary Archer
  A renowned but embittered master archer (kyūdō sensei). Jin seeks his help and becomes his student, learning advanced archery techniques while helping Ishikawa track down his former protégé, Tomoe.
• Lady Masako Adachi: Ally / Samurai Matriarch
  The sole survivor of the Adachi clan after a brutal massacre. She is a skilled warrior seeking revenge for her family's murder, and Jin helps her track down the culprits.
• Norio: Ally / Warrior Monk
  A gentle giant and warrior monk dedicated to protecting his fellow monks and the people of Tsushima. Jin helps him defend Cedar Temple and find his missing brother.
• Kenji: Ally (Reluctant) / Sake Brewer & Merchant
  A cowardly but well-meaning sake brewer who often gets himself (and Jin) into trouble with his schemes and attempts to profit from the chaos of the invasion. Provides some comic relief.
• Ryuzo: Antagonist / Childhood Friend / Leader of the Straw Hat Ronin
  Jin's childhood friend and a skilled swordsman. Leader of the Straw Hat Ronin, he initially allies with Jin but later makes desperate choices that put them on opposing sides.
• Tomoe (Mentioned/Encountered through Ishikawa's quest): Antagonist Figure / Ishikawa's Former Student
  A highly skilled archer, Sensei Ishikawa's former prized student, who defected to the Mongols and taught them archery.
• The Eagle (Iki Island DLC): Main Antagonist (DLC) / Mongol Shamaness
  The leader of a Mongol tribe on Iki Island, a powerful shamaness who uses psychological warfare and hallucinogenic poisons to torment her victims and maintain control. She has a personal connection to the Sakai clan's past actions on Iki.

• Main Story Chapters (I-VI & Epilogue I-II)
  A series of interconnected story missions that form the main narrative arc, chronicling the Van der Linde gang's struggles, heists, internal conflicts, and Arthur Morgan's personal journey. Each chapter is typically set in a new region or marks a significant shift in the gang's circumstances.
• Stranger Missions (Side Storylines)
  Optional multi-part questlines initiated by unique 'Stranger' characters encountered throughout the world. These often feature distinct stories, memorable characters, and unique rewards (e.g., missions for Hamish Sinclair, Charlotte Balfour, Albert Mason, Francis Sinclair).
• Bounty Hunting Missions
  Pick up bounty posters from sheriff's offices in various towns. Track down and capture (alive for a higher reward) or kill wanted criminals. Some bounties involve unique encounters or storylines.
• Chance Encounters (Random Events)
  Dynamic, unscripted events that occur as Arthur explores the world. These can include ambushes, people needing help (e.g., snake bite victims, stranded travelers), animal attacks, duels, or interactions with other outlaws. Choices made in these encounters can affect Honor.
• Companion Activities & Camp Requests
  Engage in optional activities with gang members at camp, such as playing poker or five finger fillet, going fishing or hunting with them, or fulfilling their item requests (e.g., finding a specific book or herb). These build camaraderie and provide small rewards or insights into characters.
• Debt Collection (Leopold Strauss Missions)
  Missions given by the gang's moneylender, Leopold Strauss, where Arthur must collect outstanding debts from vulnerable individuals, often through intimidation or force. These missions highlight the darker aspects of the gang's activities and impact Arthur's Honor.
• Legendary Animal & Fish Hunts
  Track and hunt unique Legendary Animals or catch Legendary Fish. These are challenging encounters requiring specific approaches. Their pelts/parts are used to craft unique outfits, gear, talismans, and trinkets at the Trapper or Fence.
• Home Robberies, Stagecoach Robberies, Train Robberies (Incidental & Mission-based)
  Opportunities to rob homesteads, stagecoaches, or trains for money and valuables. Some are specific missions, while others can be initiated by the player in the open world. These actions typically result in a bounty and decreased Honor.

• Main Story Quests (Jin's Journey - Act I, II, III)
  A series of narrative quests that follow Jin Sakai's efforts to repel the Mongol invasion, rescue his uncle Lord Shimura, and liberate Tsushima Island. This involves recruiting allies, confronting Mongol leaders, making difficult choices about his combat tactics (Samurai vs. Ghost), and ultimately facing Khotun Khan. The story is divided into three acts, each focusing on a different region of Tsushima.
• Tales of Tsushima (Major Side Quests & Character Arcs)
  Multi-part optional questlines focusing on key supporting characters like Yuna, Sensei Ishikawa, Lady Masako, Norio, and Kenji. These 'Tales' delve into their personal stories, motivations, and conflicts, often rewarding Jin with new techniques, gear, or Charms. They contribute significantly to world-building and character development.
• Mythic Tales
  Special side quests that involve investigating legends and folklore of Tsushima, often narrated by the musician Yamato. These quests usually involve tracking clues, solving puzzles, and culminate in Jin learning a powerful new combat technique (e.g., The Heavenly Strike, Dance of Wrath) or obtaining unique armor/weapons.
• Liberating Mongol Territories (Farms, Villages, Forts)
  Clear out Mongol-occupied locations across Tsushima. This involves defeating all Mongol soldiers in the area and sometimes completing bonus objectives (e.g., rescuing hostages, not raising alarms). Liberating territories reduces Mongol presence, reveals more of the map, grants Legend increase, and often unlocks nearby quests or merchants.
• Duels (Samurai vs. Mongol Leaders, Ronin)
  Cinematic one-on-one sword fights against skilled opponents. These occur during main quests, Mythic Tales, or when encountering specific enemies. Duels test Jin's mastery of parrying, dodging, and stance-based combat.
• Shrine Climbs (Shinto Shrines)
  Navigate challenging platforming sections, often involving climbing cliffs, jumping across gaps, and using the grappling hook (once acquired), to reach remote Shinto Shrines. Honoring these shrines rewards a Major Charm.
• Iki Island Story Quests (Director's Cut / Expansion)
  A new main questline set on Iki Island, where Jin confronts a new Mongol tribe led by the shamaness known as The Eagle. This story delves into the Sakai clan's troubled past on Iki and forces Jin to confront his own trauma.
• Legends Mode Missions (Story, Survival, Rivals, Raid - Multiplayer)
  Cooperative multiplayer missions with unique objectives, enemies (Oni), and progression systems separate from the single-player campaign. Story missions follow a narrative, Survival involves fending off waves of enemies, Rivals is a 2v2 mode, and The Tale of Iyo is a challenging three-part raid.

Available in Standard Edition, Special Edition (included extra story mode content like a bank robbery mission, gang hideout, gameplay boosts, an outfit, and a thoroughbred horse), and Ultimate Edition (included Special Edition content plus bonus Red Dead Online content like outfits, rank bonuses, a black chestnut thoroughbred, and free access to additional weapons). A Collector's Box (no game included) was also sold with physical collectibles.

Available in Standard Edition, Digital Deluxe Edition (Hero of Tsushima Skin Set, Charm of Hachiman's Favor, digital artbook, director's commentary), Special Edition (SteelBook, Hero of Tsushima mask & sword kit, digital content), and Collector's Edition (Sakai Mask replica, cloth map, sashimono war banner, furoshiki wrapping cloth, SteelBook, artbook, all Digital Deluxe content). The Director's Cut (PS5, PC) includes the base game, the Iki Island expansion, and additional features like Japanese lip sync, haptic feedback, and improved load times.

The primary post-launch support has been for Red Dead Online, which has received numerous updates adding new roles (Bounty Hunter, Trader, Collector, Moonshiner, Naturalist), missions, cosmetic items, gameplay mechanics, and seasonal events. No single-player story DLC has been released for Red Dead Redemption 2.

The main post-launch content was the 'Iki Island' expansion, a substantial story DLC included in the Director's Cut, taking Jin to a new island with new enemies, story, and gear. A free multiplayer co-op mode, 'Legends,' was also added, featuring unique classes, missions, and a raid. Various cosmetic items and patches have also been released.

• Q: Is Red Dead Redemption 2 a prequel or sequel to Red Dead Redemption?
  A: Red Dead Redemption 2 is a prequel to the original Red Dead Redemption. It tells the story of the Van der Linde gang, including a younger John Marston (protagonist of RDR1), before the events of the first game.
• Q: Can I play as John Marston in Red Dead Redemption 2?
  A: You primarily play as Arthur Morgan for most of the main story. However, John Marston becomes playable during the game's extensive epilogue chapters, which bridge the gap to the original Red Dead Redemption.
• Q: How long is Red Dead Redemption 2's story?
  A: The main story campaign is exceptionally long, typically taking players 50-60 hours to complete. Exploring all side content, collectibles, and aiming for 100% completion can easily extend playtime to 150-200+ hours.
• Q: What is the Honor System?
  A: The Honor system tracks Arthur's moral choices and actions throughout the game. Positive actions (helping strangers, sparing enemies) increase honor, while negative actions (killing innocents, robbing) decrease it. Honor level affects dialogue, store discounts, outfit unlocks, how NPCs react to Arthur, and has minor impacts on the story's ending.
• Q: Is Red Dead Online still active?
  A: Yes, Red Dead Online is still active and receives periodic updates, though major content additions have slowed compared to its initial years. It offers a persistent multiplayer world with various activities, roles, and missions.
• Q: Can you play RDR2 in first-person?
  A: Yes, Red Dead Redemption 2 offers a fully implemented first-person mode, allowing players to experience the entire game from Arthur's perspective. This can be toggled on and off at any time.

• Q: Is Ghost of Tsushima historically accurate?
  A: Ghost of Tsushima is set during a real historical event (the Mongol invasion of Japan in 1274) and features historical elements, but it is a work of historical fiction. It takes creative liberties with characters, events, and geography for narrative and gameplay purposes. The developers were heavily inspired by classic samurai cinema.
• Q: What is the difference between playing as a Samurai and as the Ghost?
  A: The game allows Jin to approach combat in two main ways. As a Samurai, he engages enemies head-on in honorable duels and open combat, relying on parries, dodges, and different sword stances. As the Ghost, he uses stealth, assassinations, trickery, and Ghost weapons (kunai, smoke bombs) to eliminate enemies dishonorably but effectively. The story explores Jin's internal conflict with these opposing methods.
• Q: What is the Guiding Wind mechanic?
  A: The Guiding Wind is Ghost of Tsushima's primary navigation system. Instead of a persistent mini-map, players can swipe up on the PlayStation controller's touchpad (or press a designated key on PC) to summon a gust of wind that blows in the direction of their currently tracked objective or point of interest. This encourages players to observe the environment.
• Q: What is Ghost of Tsushima: Legends?
  A: Legends is a free online cooperative multiplayer mode included with Ghost of Tsushima (and its Director's Cut). It features a separate storyline inspired by Japanese folklore and mythology, with players choosing from four unique classes (Samurai, Hunter, Ronin, Assassin) to tackle story missions, survival challenges, and a raid.
• Q: What does the Director's Cut add to the game?
  A: The Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut includes the full base game, the Iki Island expansion (a new story, map, enemies, and gear), Japanese lip sync options, haptic feedback and adaptive trigger support (PS5), 3D audio enhancements (PS5), and improved load times. On PC, it includes these features plus PC-specific graphical options and ultrawide support.
• Q: What is Kurosawa Mode?
  A: Kurosawa Mode is a visual filter that can be enabled, rendering the game in black and white with increased film grain and altered audio, designed to emulate the style of classic black-and-white samurai films by director Akira Kurosawa.

Powered by an advanced version of the RAGE engine, RDR2 is renowned for its groundbreaking graphics and attention to detail. It features stunningly realistic environments, lifelike character and animal animations, advanced lighting (volumetric lighting, global illumination), dynamic weather systems (rain, snow, fog), and incredible texture quality. The level of environmental detail and interaction is exceptionally high.

Powered by Sucker Punch's proprietary engine, Ghost of Tsushima is renowned for its breathtaking art direction and visual fidelity. It features stunningly beautiful landscapes with vibrant colors, dynamic weather (wind playing a key visual role), detailed particle effects (falling leaves, pollen), and realistic character models. The 'Kurosawa Mode' allows players to experience the game in black and white with film grain, mimicking classic samurai cinema.

Original score composed by Woody Jackson, with contributions from various artists. The music is dynamic, reacting to gameplay and location, featuring sweeping orchestral pieces, folk tunes, and atmospheric tracks that perfectly capture the Western setting and emotional tone. Features over 100 anachronistically appropriate licensed songs. Sound design is incredibly detailed, from weapon sounds and horse hooves to ambient wildlife and environmental effects.

Original score composed by Ilan Eshkeri and Shigeru Umebayashi, featuring a blend of traditional Japanese instrumentation (shakuhachi, koto, taiko drums) with epic orchestral themes that evoke the atmosphere of classic samurai films. Sound design is meticulous, with realistic sword clashes, distinct animal sounds, and immersive environmental audio (wind, rustling leaves). Offers full Japanese voice acting with English subtitles for an authentic experience.

Immersive UI with options for a dynamic HUD. Health/Stamina/Dead Eye cores are displayed, along with a radar/mini-map. Weapon wheel for selection. Interaction prompts are contextual. The game features a detailed journal kept by Arthur, cataloging his thoughts, sketches, and discoveries. First-person mode offers a different UI perspective.

Features a highly minimalistic and immersive HUD. Health and Resolve are displayed subtly. No traditional mini-map; players use the Guiding Wind (swiping the touchpad or a key summons a gust of wind pointing towards the tracked objective) for navigation. Enemy awareness and stance indicators are contextual. The world map is stylized like a traditional Japanese painting. Focus Hearing highlights enemies through walls.

Includes options for customizable controls (including sensitivity and dead zones), subtitle customization (size, background, speaker names), aim assist levels, options to tap or hold for interactions, colorblind modes, audio balancing, and a cinematic camera mode. First-person mode can also be considered an accessibility option for some.

Offers a good range of accessibility options, including customizable controls (remapping), subtitle and caption customization, options to simplify QTEs and repeated button presses, aim assist, options for larger UI elements, high contrast mode for some UI, and various gameplay toggles for combat difficulty and HUD elements.

• Official system requirements from Rockstar Games (PC version). Performance can vary depending on specific hardware, settings, and background applications. An SSD is strongly recommended for optimal performance due to the game's massive world and detailed textures.
• Laptop Performance Note: Laptop models of listed desktop GPUs may work if their performance is comparable, but TGP (Total Graphics Power) and cooling are extremely critical for this demanding title. **This is one of the most graphically intensive games available, and high-end laptop hardware is required for enjoyable experiences at higher settings.**
• Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P: Maximum TGP is crucial for performance.
• Laptop Consideration: Cooling Thermals: Excellent cooling is essential to prevent severe thermal throttling.
• Laptop Consideration: C P U Power Limits: Laptops with sustained high CPU power limits will perform better.
• Laptop Consideration: R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM significantly benefits performance.
• Laptop Consideration: M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is highly recommended for optimal framerates.
• Optimization Detail: Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS. AMD FSR support may vary or require mods depending on game version/updates.
• Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: Texture Quality, MSAA (very demanding), Reflection Quality, Water Quality, Volumetric Quality, Shadow Quality, TAA Sharpening, and advanced graphics settings like Tree Tessellation and Grass Shadows heavily impact performance. Finding a balance is key.
• Game Name: Red Dead Redemption 2

• Official PC system requirements for 'Ghost of Tsushima DIRECTOR'S CUT'. Performance can vary depending on specific hardware, settings, areas in-game (especially dense forests or large Mongol camps), and background applications. An SSD is strongly recommended for optimal performance.
• Laptop Performance Note: Laptop models of listed desktop GPUs will require comparable performance, high TGP (Total Graphics Power), and excellent cooling. **Ghost of Tsushima on PC is a visually rich and potentially demanding title, particularly at higher settings and resolutions.**
• Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P: Good TGP is important for consistent framerates.
• Laptop Consideration: Cooling Thermals: Robust cooling is essential for sustained performance during intense combat and exploration.
• Laptop Consideration: C P U Power Limits: A decent CPU is needed for the open world, AI, and physics.
• Laptop Consideration: R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance.
• Laptop Consideration: M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is recommended.
• Optimization Detail: Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS 3 (Super Resolution & Frame Generation), AMD FSR 3 (Super Resolution & Frame Generation), and Intel XeSS. Also supports NVIDIA Reflex and DLAA.
• Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: Texture Quality, Level of Detail, Shadow Quality, Reflections, Volumetric Fog, Particle Effects, and Ambient Occlusion heavily impact performance. Using upscaling is recommended for higher resolutions/settings.
• Game Name: Ghost of Tsushima

• Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS. AMD FSR support may vary or require mods depending on game version/updates.
• Key Settings Impact: Texture Quality, MSAA (very demanding), Reflection Quality, Water Quality, Volumetric Quality, Shadow Quality, TAA Sharpening, and advanced graphics settings like Tree Tessellation and Grass Shadows heavily impact performance. Finding a balance is key.

• Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS 3 (Super Resolution & Frame Generation), AMD FSR 3 (Super Resolution & Frame Generation), and Intel XeSS. Also supports NVIDIA Reflex and DLAA.
• Key Settings Impact: Texture Quality, Level of Detail, Shadow Quality, Reflections, Volumetric Fog, Particle Effects, and Ambient Occlusion heavily impact performance. Using upscaling is recommended for higher resolutions/settings.

• G P U T G P: Maximum TGP is crucial for performance.
• Cooling Thermals: Excellent cooling is essential to prevent severe thermal throttling.
• C P U Power Limits: Laptops with sustained high CPU power limits will perform better.
• R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM significantly benefits performance.
• M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is highly recommended for optimal framerates.

• G P U T G P: Good TGP is important for consistent framerates.
• Cooling Thermals: Robust cooling is essential for sustained performance during intense combat and exploration.
• C P U Power Limits: A decent CPU is needed for the open world, AI, and physics.
• R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance.
• M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is recommended.