One of the standout features of Ghost of Yotei‘s newly introduced free multiplayer co-op mode, Legends, is the option to challenge a friend to the coin-flicking game Zeni Hajiki. The developers at Sucker Punch had to establish a fresh set of rules for a competitive PvP coin flicking experience. Thankfully, they had everything they needed for initial testing in the game’s collector’s edition.
Darren Bridges, senior staff designer and lead for Legends, shared with Kotaku that the studio had always intended to implement multiplayer co-op in the open-world PS5 RPG. However, the enthusiastic fan reaction to the coin-flicking game convinced the team to integrate it into the lobby, providing a relaxed space for players between missions.
Bridges noted, “PvP Zeni Hajiki was something we were keen on exploring.” He explained that the positive fan feedback after the game launched indicated it was a worthy endeavor, and there was strong support from within the studio. They even conducted their PvP rule tests using real coins on a physical table!
When I inquired about the decision to prototype online Zeni Hajiki using actual coins on a real table, Bridges replied that the team always seeks the “absolute fastest way” to determine the viability of an idea.
“Typically, this involves creating basic, unrefined content for in-game testing,” Bridges elaborated. “However, Zeni Hajiki is one of the few cases where we could trial new rules without writing any code!” Interestingly, the coins used for testing came from Yotei‘s Collector’s Edition, which provided a quick and resourceful solution.
No fighting in the lobby, okay?
With the introduction of PvP elements in Yotei’s online lobby, where players can engage in bamboo chopping alongside Zeni Hajiki, I began to think about another PvP feature I desired: the chance to duel my brother. Though we collaborate effectively, our competitive natures made us eager to face off after a few missions.
Unfortunately for us, Bridges clarified that the combat system in Ghost of Yotei was designed “specifically for PvE,” making co-op the only feasible option for Legends. However, there might be potential for such features in a future, unannounced sequel. The online mode of Yotei’s predecessor, Ghost of Tsushima, also had a version titled Legends but lacked a lobby with side activities.
Creating an online game alongside a single-player RPG
When I asked Bridges if integrating a multiplayer mode had always been part of the vision for Yotei, he confirmed that it was, beginning early in the game’s development. “Ghost of Tsushima: Legends was our first genuine online co-op project, and the audience’s response encouraged us to pursue it again! Ghost of Yotei presented new opportunities for adapting Legends, including novel weapon systems and enormous versions of the Yōtei Six.”
Sucker Punch managed the balance between Yotei and Legends efficiently, with a smaller core team working on Legends as Yotei was developed. As team members wrapped up their tasks for the main game, they shifted focus to ensure the completion of Legends. Bridges mentioned that there was never any intention to charge for this update.
“Like with Ghost of Tsushima, we were thrilled to offer Legends as a free DLC for all Ghost of Yotei owners, without any microtransactions,” Bridges stated.
A shift from realism
This approach also allowed developers to transition from Yotei’s grounded aesthetics to the more fantastical elements of Legends, enhancing creativity. “While we cherish the beauty of the realistic world in Yotei, it’s refreshing for designers and artists to explore the fantastical settings and characters in Legends, paving the way for co-op mechanics and formidable challenges for multiple players,” shared Bridges.
Upon asking about Sucker Punch’s history of enhancing and expanding its titles, which could be seen in previous releases like Infamous: Festival of Blood and Infamous: First Light, Bridges noted that each game is unique. However, the studio consistently seeks effective ways to support a game’s development and sustainability.
“From the beginning of Ghost of Tsushima, we aimed to include cooperative content. Being able to fight alongside friends fits seamlessly with the samurai fantasy, allowing Legends to broaden our studio’s capabilities and give players a thrilling cooperative experience that complements the solo campaign,” Bridges concluded.
