Ghost of Tsushima
Ghost of Tsushima

Tips, Tricks, and First Steps

New Ghost of Tsushima players learn essential tips for beginners. Prioritize skills, find key gear, and master combat mechanics like 'The Heavenly Strike'.

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Embark on your journey through Tsushima with these essential tips for beginners. Learn which skills to prioritize, discover key gear early on, and avoid common mistakes to prepare Jin Sakai for any challenge. This section focuses on getting you through the initial stages of Ghost of Tsushima, ensuring a strong start to your samurai adventure.

Walkthrough Progression

The campaign story walkthrough for this guide is complete up until partway through Act II. The Prologue covers:

  • Komoda Beach Battle
  • Komoda Town
  • Combat Training
  • Escape from Komoda Town
  • Castle Kaneda
  • Khotun Khan
  • Sakai Estate Funeral
  • Escape from Castle Kaneda

Act I (Main Missions) includes:

  • The Tale of Sensei Ishikawa
  • The Tale of Lady Masako
  • The Warrior's Code
  • Blood on the Grass
  • The Tale of Ryuzo (partially covered)

Early Game Strategy

After the Prologue, Jin's first few quests serve as tutorials, teaching combat mechanics and providing Technique points. Do not immediately pursue Mythic Tales. Instead, explore a little before tackling these specific quests. However, do not delay them too long, especially "The Heavenly Strike," as it unlocks a very useful ability. "The Heavenly Strike" becomes available after completing a few Act 1 missions, such as meeting Masako for the first time. This attack helps with quickly damaging bosses and clearing enemy camps.

Mythic Tales and Boss Battles

Throughout Tsushima, you will encounter various quests, including story quests, character tales (Yuna, Masako, etc.), one-off NPC missions, and seven Mythic Tales. Musicians around the island provide these special side missions, which reward either a Mythical ability or a unique piece of armor. These often conclude with boss battles. The Mythic Tale involving Kojiro requires fighting five Straw Hat ronin before facing Kojiro himself. These duels appear on the map at the start of Act 2 and can be completed early.

Essential Locations and Collectibles

As you progress, locate and interact with various points of interest that provide upgrades and benefits:

  • Hot Springs: Restore health and increase maximum health.
  • Bamboo Strikes: Increase Resolve.
  • Fox Dens: Lead to Inari Shrines, which upgrade Charm slots.
  • Haikus: Reward headbands.
  • Shinto Shrines: Offer unique Charms.
  • Pillars of Honor: Provide new sword kits.