Yotei Studio Head: Future Games to Stay in Japan

Sucker Punch confirms the *Ghost* series will remain permanently rooted in Japan, as star Erika Ishii discusses bringing the new protagonist, Atsu, to life. Discover what defines the franchise and more from their Tokyo Game Show panel.

Ghost of Yotei Stays True to Its Samurai Roots On and Off the Screen

Katana and Japan Are the Core Identity of the Series

Sucker Punch studio head Brian Fleming recently spoke with UnGeek about *Ghost of Yotei* and the series' broader vision. In the interview, Fleming emphasized that the franchise's identity is fundamentally tied to its Japanese setting. He believes a *Ghost* game must feature a katana-wielding warrior against the backdrop of Japan's history and landscapes. “We can’t imagine a *Ghost* game set in, say, feudal Europe. That wouldn't work. There are other games for that, but it’s not what *Ghost* is,” Fleming stated.

Although franchises like *Assassin’s Creed* frequently shift settings, Fleming explained that approach doesn't suit *Ghost*. For him, the series loses its meaning outside Japan—an essence he defines as the combination of samurai, katanas, and the nation's natural beauty.

Core Pillars Behind Ghost of Yotei

Fleming clarified that *Ghost* is defined not just by epic storytelling but by three key pillars: the katana, Japanese history, and an expansive open world showcasing the country's beauty. These elements, he said, distinguish the series and will steer its future.

He also noted the strong positive reaction from Japanese fans at the Tokyo Game Show when he highlighted Japan's landscapes as part of the series' DNA. To Fleming, *Ghost* will always be an open-world samurai adventure deeply embedded in Japanese culture, even if future titles explore different eras or protagonists.

*Ghost of Yotei* already demonstrates the studio's willingness to advance the timeline and introduce new heroes. But Fleming indicated clear boundaries the team won't cross, such as abandoning the katana or leaving Japan. This suggests future installments will likely remain within the rich historical span from the Heian to Edo periods.

Erika Ishii on Becoming the New Ghost

This commitment to Japanese tradition isn’t just shaping the game’s world—it’s also central to the performance of Erika Ishii, who portrays the new protagonist Atsu. For Ishii, known for roles in *Apex Legends* and *Dragon Age: The Veilguard*, this role extended far beyond voice work. They also provided the character's physical likeness and motion capture, making Atsu one of the most personal projects of their career.

Unlike conventional voice-acting sessions, Ishii was deeply involved throughout production. Speaking with UnGeek at the Tokyo Game Show, they described the process as highly collaborative, allowing input on Atsu’s physicality and emotional depth. Even during intense scenes of grief and anger, Ishii said the supportive team made the experience uplifting rather than draining.

Ishii’s preparation drew heavily from a lifelong love of samurai cinema and anime. Growing up with Kurosawa films, jidaigeki dramas, and series like *Samurai Champloo*, they saw Atsu as a continuation of that legacy. This deep familiarity with samurai archetypes helped ground the character while letting Ishii add a personal touch.

Admittedly, stepping into the role after the beloved Jin Sakai was intimidating. Ishii shared that initial days on set felt daunting, given fan expectations and their own respect for Sony’s gaming legacy. However, nerves soon faded in the collaborative environment the crew fostered.

For Ishii, Atsu is more than another role—it’s an opportunity to embody a hero inspired by the very stories that shaped them. Just as Fleming ties the series’ soul to Japan and the katana, Ishii’s performance demonstrates how that identity resonates on a character level, blending authenticity with personal passion.