Ex-Sony Executive Addresses Criticism of Ghost of Yotei's Female Protagonist

Shawn Layden, a former executive at Sony, has weighed in on the controversy surrounding the new female protagonist in Ghost of Yotei. This sequel to the acclaimed Ghost of Tsushima, developed by Sucker Punch Productions, was revealed during Sony's State of Play event on September 24. Despite its strong predecessor, Ghost of Yotei has sparked criticism, particularly regarding its narrative direction and protagonist.

Some fans have expressed disappointment that Ghost of Yotei is not a direct continuation of the Ghost of Tsushima storyline, a narrative they were invested in. Additionally, a segment of the audience has reacted negatively to the choice of a female lead. The main character, Atsu, is designed to provide a fresh perspective on the journey of a "Ghost" within this rich narrative framework, and Sucker Punch is enthusiastic about this new direction.

In response to the backlash, Layden advised people to apply their own judgment and common sense. He commented on a post by YouTuber MightyKeef, which highlighted the uproar, stating that the team at Sucker Punch is genuinely passionate about creating this game. Layden suggested that those who are displeased with the game’s direction should consider avoiding it or, better yet, embark on their own game development journey.

Shawn Layden Backs Sucker Punch Productions

In a lighthearted moment, Layden shared a GIF referencing Zoolander, humorously remarking, “I feel like I’m taking crazy pills,” reflecting on the intensity of the discussions surrounding the game. With his extensive experience, including his role as CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment America, Layden’s perspective on game development holds weight. He emphasized that Ghost of Yotei represents "a story a team of creators believes in," signaling that divergent opinions will not derail the game’s production.

The backlash seems rooted in concerns over perceived threats to traditional masculinity, with some critics claiming that it is being "replaced by women." This viewpoint confounds many who are familiar with Ghost of Tsushima, as the original game featured strong female characters like Masako Adachi, who plays a pivotal role and even confronts Jin early on. Her narrative is just one instance of the strong female presence within the franchise. It appears that the involvement of women in the Ghost series is a trend that will continue into the future.