What To Do First in Ghost of Tsushima

Upon arriving in Ghost of Tsushima, your initial steps should focus on understanding the core mechanics, exploring the immediate surroundings, and completing the early story missions. Prioritizing the acquisition of essential skills and gear will set you up for success as you begin your fight to liberate Tsushima from the Mongol invasion.

As you embark on your journey in Ghost of Tsushima, the first few hours are crucial for establishing a solid foundation for the rest of your playthrough. The game offers a vast open world, and knowing where to direct your initial efforts can make a significant difference in your overall experience. The absolute first thing you should do is pay close attention to the tutorial prompts. Ghost of Tsushima has a fluid and intuitive combat system, but understanding the basics of parrying, dodging, and using your Ghost weapons is paramount. Don't rush through these early combat encounters; practice the timing and learn the nuances of each move. Following the main story missions is also a high priority. These early quests will guide you through the initial areas of Izuhara, introduce you to key characters, and unlock essential abilities and gameplay features. For instance, the first few main quests will likely introduce you to the concept of stealth, the use of your katana, and the importance of honor. As you progress through these initial story beats, you'll also want to start exploring your immediate surroundings. Look for points of interest marked on your map, such as Shinto Shrines, Hot Springs, and Bamboo Strikes. Visiting Shinto Shrines will grant you Divine Feathers, which can be used to unlock powerful charms that offer various combat bonuses. Hot Springs allow you to increase Jin's maximum health, a vital upgrade for survivability. Bamboo Strikes test your ability to perform a series of button presses to increase your Resolve, a resource used for healing and performing special combat moves. engage with the local inhabitants. Many NPCs will offer side quests, known as 'Tales of Tsushima.' While you don't need to complete all of them immediately, picking up a few early on can provide valuable resources, experience, and introduce you to the rich lore of the island. Prioritize tales that are close to your current location and seem manageable. Gathering resources like Iron and Steel is also important from the outset. These materials are used by the Blacksmith to upgrade your katana, significantly increasing your damage output. You'll find these resources by defeating Mongol enemies and exploring their encampments. Finally, get comfortable with your horse, Sora. Fast travel is available later, but early on, your horse is your primary mode of transportation. Learning to summon Sora quickly and navigate the terrain efficiently will save you a lot of time. In summary, focus on mastering the combat basics, progressing through the main story, exploring nearby points of interest for upgrades, and gathering essential resources. This balanced approach will ensure you're well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

Your initial priorities should include:

Master Combat Fundamentals: Practice parrying, dodging, and using Ghost weapons.
Follow Main Story Quests: These unlock core mechanics and introduce the world.
Explore Nearby Points of Interest: Visit Shrines, Hot Springs, and Bamboo Strikes for upgrades.
Pick Up Early Side Quests: Gain resources and learn about the world.
Gather Resources: Collect Iron and Steel for weapon upgrades.
Familiarize Yourself with Your Horse: Sora is your primary early-game transport.

By focusing on these initial steps, you'll build a strong foundation for your samurai journey.