Summary
The fox is not only one of Japan’s most respected animals, but it’s also one of the most memorable creatures to be found in the breathtaking world ofGhost of Tsushima. As playersexplore Tsushima Island, they may frequently happen upon foxes, who bark at Jin from a distance, beckoning him to follow them to a nearby Inari shrine. There, Jin can earn progression towards a new charm slot and even potentially get a chance to pet the fox before it departs. Now,Ghost of Yoteiwould be remiss not to feature the animal once again, but the game could do so much more with foxes this time to put them a little more front and center.
Foxes could still be just as charming and adorable inGhost of Yotei, but according to Japanese folklore, they have a darker side to them that many may not be aware of. As such, perhapsGhost of Yoteicould expand the fox’s purpose and extend its role into the game’s narrative, all while drawing from the deep well of tales and beliefs related to the animal.
Ghost of Yotei Could Show a Different Side of the Fox
Japanese Folklore Suggests Foxes Retaliate When Disrespected
In Japanese culture, foxes, otherwise known as “kitsune,” are considered highly significant and respectable creatures with deep ties to Shinto beliefs and folklore. Foxes are considered to be so special, in fact, that they are often regarded as messengers of the deity Inari, who is associated with rice and agriculture, fertility and abundance, and commerce and prosperity. In light of the high status offoxes in Japanese culture, disrespecting one of the animals is seen as potentially dangerous and can lead to supernatural consequences one might wish to avoid.
In Japanese culture, foxes, otherwise known as “kitsune,” are considered highly significant and respectable creatures with deep ties to Shinto beliefs and folklore.
For instance, disrespecting a fox might cause the offender to be cursed with bad luck, illness, or some other hardship. In more extreme cases, foxes are believed to possess those who disrespect them as a form of revenge or punishment. This particular condition, otherwise known as kitsunetsuki, is known inShinto folklorefor causing erratic behavior and other physical symptoms. Foxes are also considered to be cunning tricksters in Japanese culture, with their retaliatory nature often leaning more toward the humiliation or deception of those who mistreat them. Finally, since foxes are connected to the deity Inari, disrespecting a fox is often regarded as a simultaneous insult to Inari, thereby resulting in greater, more spiritual repercussions.
A Side Quest in Ghost of Yotei Could Bring Japanese Fox Folklore to Life
Considering the commonly held beliefs about foxes in Japanese culture and the likelihood ofGhost of Yoteimaintaining its predecessor’s love for animals, there might be an opportunity for the sequel to explore the supernatural side of foxes instead of placing them in the game as mere guides. For example,Ghost of Yoteicould feature a side quest or series of side quests linked to someone disrespecting or damaging an Inari shrine in some way, upon which Atsu is tasked with locating the perpetrator and witnessing firsthand the consequences of their actions. It would be a great way forGhost of Yoteito tie horror elements into its world and also educate players a bit more on Shinto folklore.
By delving deeper into the nature of foxes in Japanese folklore — both as messengers of Inari and as agents of supernatural retribution —Ghost of Yoteicould transform these iconic animals from the first game into much more prominent figures in its world. Approaching foxes in this way would not only heighten the cultural authenticity ofGhost of Yoteibut also its atmosphere and themes. Whether through a haunting side quest or subtle hints at the supernatural side of the animal, foxes have the potential to takeGhost of Yotei’s storytellingand worldbuilding to a whole new level, all while honoring the respect these creatures are known for in Japanese culture.
Ghost of Yotei
WHERE TO PLAY
Discover a bold, new story of a warrior in Japan who is on a mission of vengeance all her own.Set 300 years after the critically acclaimed Ghost of Tsushima, Ghost of Yōtei is standalone experience set in 1600s rural Japan. The story follows a haunted, lone mercenary named Atsu. Thirsty for revenge, she travels through the beautiful, rugged landscapes of northern Japan, hunting those who killed her family many years earlier.
