With Crunchyroll’s announcement of Ghost of Tsushima: Legends anime’s release, the animators need to replicate this key element from the game.

Ghost of Tsushima isn’t a bog-standard action-adventure game; it is a visual masterpiece in more ways than one. Developed by Sucker Punch Productions, the samurai RPG has sold millions of copies.

But that is not all considering the franchise’s branching out into different visual mediums. From film adaptations to cameos, it is soaring heights. To top it all off, its anime adaptation is set to make waves. But there’s a catch to it.

Jin Sakai in a still from the game | Credit: Sony

While the series is set to premiere in 2027, it would be nothing short of complicated. Considering the perils associated with adaptations, Sony needs to go above and beyond in replicating a key aspect of the gameplay.

In retrospect, the franchise has joined the bandwagon of anime adaptations. From Persona to Cyberpunk Edgerunners, with a bunch of video games getting their deserved anime, it marks a golden era for the animation industry as a whole.

Ghost of Tsushima: Legends anime needs to replicate authenticity

Released in 2020, Ghost of Tsushima stands as one of the most iconic and impeccable video games. Be it visuals or the gameplay, it is truly remarkable in its storytelling as well as worldbuilding. It would be an understatement to say that this is one of the best samurai games to be ever made.

Moreover, it has remarkable features in terms of combat. From melee to stealth, users can switch modes depending on their difficulty. However, that’s not it as the impeccable storyline allows you to question even your own decisions and honor at times.

Hunter in a still from the game | Credit: Sony

The story follows Jin Sakai and his journey to thwart the Mongol invasion on Tsushima Island. As a Samurai, he uses his training and knowledge to incapacitate his foes. It is a perfect blend of action, adventure, and history enmeshed in riveting gameplay.

To defeat Mongols, characters use their swordplay along with stealth-based abilities which are detrimental to the principles of most Samurai. This element is the core aspect of the gameplay which would define its adaptation on the whole.

Recently, Crunchyroll confirmed that the anime is set to release in 2027. There is still, however, no confirmation whether they’ll adapt Jin’s story. And while the update leaves fans exhilarated, it stands as a gargantuan obstacle for the animators. This is especially true for replicating the stealth element in the anime.

There are very few anime that have lived up to their name as just and faithful adaptations. With Sony joining the trend of anime adaptation, it would be a win-win situation for the franchise. It circles back to the game-related adaptations that are going to be the next big thing.

Video game to anime adaptations are the next best thing

From Cyberpunk Edgerunners to Persona, there are a plethora of games that have been adapted into anime. This is the era of adaptations and we’re witnessing the most legendary spectacle. And while it sounds dreamy, adaptations can be tricky.

Replicating visuals and gameplay isn’t a cakewalk. It is an arduous task to mirror the tactics. And while Sucker Punch did an impeccable job with the game, it would be nothing less of a feat to witness the stellar masterpiece on screen.

Jin Sakai in a still from the game | Credit: Sony

Interestingly, we have witnessed a rise in anime adapted from games and novels. And while novel adaptations are common, video game adaptations are risky. Only a handful of anime can notch it up with their top-tier adaptation.

Arcane is one such example with its gameplay and blend of 2D and 3D animation which makes it visually stunning. On top of that, it is wholesome with its blend of surreal music fused with alluring graphics.

By and by, Ghost of Tsushima: Legends anime would be a true masterpiece if it manages to mirror the gameplay along with the splendid visuals.

Ghost of Tsushima: Legends anime is set to release in 2027.