GhostWire: Tokyo is a supernatural thriller action-adventure game developed by Tango Gameworks and published by Bethesda Softworks. It was announced at E3 2019 during the Bethesda Softworks conference,[2] and a gameplay teaser was shown during the PlayStation 5 reveal event a year later.[3]
The game takes place in Tokyo, when all of the city's population has mysteriously vanished. Deadly paranormal Visitors have taken over the city and the player must fight them using ethereal weaving skills and discover the cause of the disappearance.[4]
GhostWire: Tokyo released on March 25, 2022 for the PlayStation 5 (as a timed console exclusive) and on PC.[3] Tango Gameworks had posted a press release on Twitter on July 13, 2021 with a new release date for early 2022 after the game was delayed.
Players, who pre-ordered the Deluxe Edition received access to the game 3 days earlier.
Tango Gameworks was closed by Microsoft as part of a significant restructure of Bethesda's operations in May 2024, leaving the game's future uncertain.
Synopsis[]
GhostWire: Tokyo is an enigmatic and atmospheric action-adventure game developed by Tango Gameworks. Set in a mysteriously deserted Tokyo, players assume the role of Akito, a protagonist endowed with supernatural abilities. A baffling occurrence has led to the sudden disappearance of the city's inhabitants, leaving behind only spectral entities known as the "Visitors." As Akito, players must navigate through the hauntingly beautiful streets of Tokyo, unraveling the secrets behind the phenomenon and confronting otherworldly threats.
Armed with a blend of ancient mysticism and modern technology, Akito embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind the mysterious vanishing. Along the way, they encounter a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and agendas. From eerie urban legends to hidden conspiracies, every corner of the city holds clues to the unfolding mystery.
As players delve deeper into the heart of the supernatural occurrences, they must harness Akito's unique abilities to combat the spectral beings that roam the streets. Through a combination of mystical powers and intuitive combat mechanics, players must confront the otherworldly entities and restore balance to the fractured city.
With its captivating blend of Japanese folklore, urban exploration, and supernatural intrigue, GhostWire: Tokyo promises an immersive and unforgettable journey through a city shrouded in mystery and danger. As Akito ventures deeper into the unknown, they will uncover the truth behind the spectral invasion and confront the darkness that threatens to consume Tokyo.
Gameplay[]
GhostWire: Tokyo offers a captivating gameplay experience that seamlessly blends exploration, combat, and supernatural abilities in a hauntingly beautiful rendition of Tokyo. Players navigate through the eerily deserted streets of the city, uncovering its mysteries and confronting otherworldly threats along the way.
Exploration[]
Exploration is a key element of the gameplay, as players traverse the intricately designed urban environments of Tokyo. From neon-lit alleyways to shadowy parks, every corner of the city holds secrets waiting to be discovered. Players can interact with NPCs, investigate abandoned buildings, and unravel the lore of the world through collectibles and environmental storytelling.
Combat[]
Combat in GhostWire: Tokyo is fast-paced and dynamic, blending martial arts-inspired melee combat with mystical abilities. Players can unleash a variety of supernatural powers to vanquish spectral enemies, ranging from ethereal bows and arrows to explosive bursts of energy. As players progress, they unlock new abilities and upgrade their powers to suit their playstyle, allowing for strategic and satisfying combat encounters.
Supernatural Abilities[]
Central to the gameplay experience are Akito's supernatural abilities, which grant him the power to manipulate the spiritual energy that permeates the world. These abilities include:
- Spirit Vision: Allows players to perceive hidden objects and spectral entities, uncovering hidden secrets and weaknesses.
- Spiritual Cleansing: Enables players to banish spectral beings using a variety of mystical attacks and abilities.
- Summoning: Allows players to summon powerful spirits to aid them in combat or solve environmental puzzles.
- Traversal: Grants players the ability to traverse the city with supernatural agility, leaping across rooftops and phasing through obstacles.
Puzzles and Mysteries[]
In addition to combat encounters, GhostWire: Tokyo features a variety of puzzles and mysteries for players to solve. These range from environmental puzzles that require players to manipulate objects using their supernatural abilities to cryptic riddles that unravel the secrets of the city's past. Solving these puzzles rewards players with valuable resources and insights into the game's lore.
Overall, GhostWire: Tokyo offers a unique and immersive gameplay experience that combines exploration, combat, and supernatural abilities in a captivating urban setting filled with mystery and intrigue.
Story[]
Chapter 1: The Vanishing[]
The story of GhostWire: Tokyo begins with a mysterious phenomenon known as the "Vanishing," which leads to the sudden disappearance of the majority of Tokyo's population. Players are introduced to Akito, the protagonist, who discovers that they possess supernatural abilities in the wake of the event. As Akito navigates the deserted streets of Tokyo, they encounter the first signs of the spectral entities known as the "Visitors."
Chapter 2: Unraveling the Mystery[]
In this chapter, Akito embarks on a journey to unravel the mystery behind the Vanishing and the nature of the Visitors. Along the way, they encounter various NPCs who provide clues and assistance in their quest. Akito's investigations lead them to uncover ancient rituals and urban legends that may hold the key to understanding the supernatural events unfolding in the city.
Chapter 3: Confronting the Spirits[]
As Akito delves deeper into the heart of Tokyo, they confront increasingly powerful and malevolent spectral entities. With the help of their supernatural abilities, Akito engages in intense combat encounters with the spirits, gradually uncovering the truth behind their origins and motivations. Alongside combat, players must also solve environmental puzzles and navigate treacherous terrain to progress.
Chapter 4: Allies and Betrayals[]
In this chapter, Akito forms alliances with other survivors who have their own agendas and motivations. As they navigate the intricate web of alliances and betrayals, Akito must determine who they can trust in their quest to uncover the truth. Alongside their allies, Akito confronts the forces behind the Vanishing, facing off against powerful adversaries who seek to manipulate the spiritual energy of Tokyo for their own ends.
Chapter 5: The Final Confrontation[]
In the climactic final chapter, Akito confronts the mastermind behind the Vanishing and the spectral invasion of Tokyo. As they engage in a epic battle against overwhelming odds, Akito's true potential as a wielder of supernatural powers is unleashed. With the fate of Tokyo hanging in the balance, Akito must make difficult choices that will determine the outcome of their quest and the future of the city.
Through a series of interconnected chapters and timelines, GhostWire: Tokyo weaves a captivating narrative that explores themes of loss, identity, and the supernatural, inviting players to embark on an unforgettable journey through a hauntingly beautiful rendition of Tokyo.
Characters[]
Akito[]
As the protagonist of GhostWire: Tokyo, Akito is a young individual who discovers they possess supernatural abilities following the mysterious disappearance of Tokyo's population. Determined to unravel the truth behind the disappearance of their sister Mari and confront the enigmatic figure known as Hannya, Akito embarks on a journey through the haunted streets of Tokyo.
Mari[]
Akito's younger sister, Mari, is a high school student who becomes grievously injured and unconscious after a blaze erupts in their apartment. She becomes a target for Hannya's sinister plans, kidnapped to serve as a catalyst for his mysterious ceremony.
KK[]
The spirit of a deceased man who possesses Akito's body following a near-fatal accident. Seeking revenge against Hannya, KK allies with Rinko and others in their pursuit of justice. KK's unique powers, fueled by his affinity for ether, play a crucial role in the battle against the supernatural forces threatening Tokyo.
Hannya[]
A mysterious figure adorned in a Hannya mask, Hannya is believed to be connected to the mass Vanishing that has engulfed Shibuya. Grievously injuring Akito and kidnapping Mari, Hannya seeks to perform a dangerous ceremony that could reunite him with his departed loved ones, unleashing giants into the mortal realm in the process.
Visitors[]
Spectral entities known as Visitors haunt the deserted streets of Tokyo, adding to the eerie atmosphere of the game. As Akito ventures deeper into the mystery of the Vanishing, they encounter these otherworldly beings and must confront their formidable presence.
Locations[]
In GhostWire: Tokyo, players will encounter a variety of locations that mirror real-life landmarks and districts in Tokyo, each with its own unique atmosphere and significance to the game's narrative. Here's a glimpse into these areas and their real-life counterparts:
Shibuya Crossing[]
One of Tokyo's most famous landmarks, Shibuya Crossing, serves as a central hub in the game. Here, players will navigate the bustling streets and neon-lit alleyways, encountering spectral entities and unraveling the mysteries of the Vanishing. The chaotic energy of Shibuya Crossing provides a stark contrast to the eerie stillness that has befallen the city.
Restricted Areas[]
These areas in the game likely draws inspiration from various restricted zones found throughout Tokyo. These areas are typically off-limits to the public and may contain industrial or military facilities, contributing to the mystery and intrigue surrounding them in the game.
Shrines[]
In GhostWire: Tokyo, there are man shrines each requiring you cleanse them before fog is lifted in the area surrounding the shrine allowing you to explore the area. While there may not be a shrine specifically named after any of the shrines in the game; in real life, Tokyo is home to numerous Shinto shrines, each with its own history and cultural significance.
Kirigaoka Water Tower[]
While specific details may vary, the Kirigaoka Water Tower is likely based on real-life water towers found throughout Tokyo. These structures serve as vital components of the city's infrastructure, providing water storage and distribution to residents.
Utagawa Shopping District[]
The Utagawa Shopping District likely draws inspiration from the countless shopping streets and districts scattered throughout Tokyo. These bustling areas are filled with shops, restaurants, and vendors, offering a vibrant glimpse into Tokyo's bustling street life.
Sengokuzaka[]
Sengokuzaka may be inspired by the hilly streets and neighborhoods found in various parts of Tokyo, such as Shibuya or Meguro. These areas are known for their steep slopes and winding streets, offering unique views of the city skyline.
Yashin Redevelopment Area[]
The Yashin Redevelopment Area in the game likely represents one of Tokyo's many urban redevelopment projects. These areas undergo transformation and revitalization over time, reflecting Tokyo's dynamic and ever-changing urban landscape.
Sky Garden[]
The Sky Garden may draw inspiration from observation decks and rooftop gardens found in Tokyo's skyscrapers and commercial buildings. These elevated spaces offer stunning panoramic views of the cityscape, providing a serene retreat from the bustling streets below.
Construction Labyrinth[]
The Construction Labyrinth represents the chaos and disruption caused by ongoing construction projects in Tokyo. With the city constantly evolving and expanding, construction sites are a common sight, often creating mazes of scaffolding and barriers.
429[]
In the game, "429" stands as a bustling hub of activity, drawing in crowds of shoppers and tourists alike. Its towering facade and vibrant lights illuminate the surrounding streets, making it a prominent fixture in Tokyo's skyline. The real-life counterpart to "429" is the renowned "109" department store located in Tokyo's Shibuya district. Known officially as "Shibuya 109," this landmark shopping center is famous for its trendy fashion boutiques, attracting fashion-forward shoppers from all over the world.
Enzancho[]
Enzancho likely represents a fictional neighborhood or district within Tokyo. While it may not have a direct real-life counterpart, it reflects the diverse array of communities and districts found throughout the city.
Drunkard's Alley[]
The main inspiration for this location in the game is Nonbei Yokocho ("Drunkard's Alley") in Shibuya. This narrow alley lined with small bars and eateries is a popular nightlife spot known for its cozy atmosphere and traditional charm. Another inspiration for this location could be Omoide Yokocho, also known as Memory Lane or Piss Alley, located near Shinjuku Station in Tokyo. Omoide Yokocho is renowned for its tiny eateries serving yakitori (grilled skewered chicken) and other traditional Japanese dishes in a nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of post-war Tokyo.
Shibuya Kagerie Retail Complex[]
Shibuya Kagerie Retail Complex in GhostWire: Tokyo is a modern shopping complex overrun by spectral entities, with its halls echoing with the whispers of the vanished. This fictional location draws inspiration from Shibuya Parco. This multi-level retail complex in the heart of Shibuya is renowned for its trendy shops, cafes, and entertainment venues.
Shibuya Station[]
Shibuya Station is a pivotal location in both GhostWire: Tokyo and real-life Tokyo. In the game, it serves as a central transportation hub, its platforms eerily deserted in the wake of the Vanishing. In reality, Shibuya Station is one of Tokyo's busiest train stations, serving millions of passengers daily and connecting various parts of the city through its extensive network of train lines and subway systems.
Kappagaike[]
Kappagaike is a mysterious pond shrouded in legend, said to be inhabited by supernatural entities known as Kappa. While fictional, Kappagaike draws inspiration from the numerous ponds and water features found in Tokyo's parks and gardens, which are often associated with folklore and mythological creatures in Japanese culture.
Mitake Shopping Arcade[]
Mitake Shopping Arcade is a bustling commercial district overrun by spectral forces, its once vibrant shops now abandoned and haunted. While fictional, Mitake Shopping Arcade is reminiscent of the numerous shopping arcades and districts found throughout Tokyo, each offering a unique blend of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Ginpei Crossing[]
Ginpei Crossing is a bustling intersection where spectral energy converges, creating a surreal and haunting atmosphere. While fictional, Ginpei Crossing draws inspiration from the many iconic intersections and crossings found throughout Tokyo, such as the famous Shibuya Crossing.
Sengoku Police Box[]
In GhostWire: Tokyo, the Sengoku Police Box serves as a point of interest where players may encounter spectral phenomena or interact with NPCs. While there isn't a specific real-life counterpart, police boxes (koban) are a common sight in Tokyo, functioning as small police stations situated throughout the city to provide assistance and maintain public safety.
Sports Avenue[]
Sports Avenue in the game is likely inspired by the numerous sports equipment stores and specialty shops found in Tokyo, particularly areas like Kanda and Jimbocho, known for their concentration of sports-related stores catering to enthusiasts of various sports and activities.
Lamplight Cemetery[]
Lamplight Cemetery is a fictional location in GhostWire: Tokyo that reflects the eerie atmosphere of Tokyo's real-life cemeteries, such as Yanaka Cemetery. Yanaka Cemetery is one of Tokyo's largest and oldest cemeteries, known for its historic graves, lush greenery, and tranquil pathways.
429 Street[]
429 Street, likely draws inspiration from Shibuya 109, a popular fashion department store in Tokyo's Shibuya district. Shibuya 109 is renowned for its trendy fashion boutiques and vibrant atmosphere, making it a hub for fashion-conscious shoppers.
Enzan Neon District[]
The Enzan Neon District is a fictional area characterized by its neon-lit streets and bustling nightlife. While not directly based on a specific district, it reflects the vibrant energy and luminous signage found in Tokyo's entertainment districts like Shinjuku's Kabukicho or Shibuya's Center Gai.
Yugenzaka Junction[]
Yugenzaka Junction in the game is likely inspired by the numerous bustling intersections found throughout Tokyo, known for their intricate traffic patterns and vibrant energy. While fictional, it captures the essence of Tokyo's urban landscape and the iconic Shibuya Crossing.
Tsukinami Dai-ichi Park[]
Tsukinami Dai-ichi Park is a fictional park in GhostWire: Tokyo, but it embodies the serene beauty and tranquility of Tokyo's many public parks and gardens, such as Yoyogi Park or Ueno Park. These parks offer green spaces for relaxation, recreation, and cultural events amidst the bustling city.
Towers[]
Utagawa Tower and Shibuya Stripe Tower in the game likely draws inspiration from Tokyo's numerous observation towers and skyscrapers, such as Tokyo Tower or Tokyo Skytree. These iconic landmarks offer panoramic views of the city skyline and serve as popular tourist attractions.
Shibuara Park[]
Shibuara Park in the game reflects the lush green spaces and tranquil gardens found in Tokyo's parks, such as Shiba Park or Hibiya Park. These parks offer a peaceful retreat from the urban hustle and bustle, featuring cherry blossoms, ponds, and walking paths for visitors to enjoy.
Throughout their journey, players will traverse these and other iconic locations, each with its own unique challenges and mysteries to uncover. From the bustling streets of Shibuya to the tranquil temples of Asakusa, GhostWire: Tokyo invites players to explore a rich and immersive world infused with supernatural intrigue.
Development[]
The development of GhostWire: Tokyo has been a journey marked by creativity, innovation, and collaboration. Here's an overview of the development process:
!Conceptualization and Early Development'[]
The idea for "GhostWire: Tokyo" was conceived by Shinji Mikami, the founder of Tango Gameworks, known for his work on iconic horror games like the Resident Evil series and Ikumi Nakamura; the former creative director at Tango Gameworks, who was inspired by her love for Japanese folklore and urban legends, as well as her desire to create a game that blended supernatural horror with elements of mystery and adventure.
The initial concept aimed to blend elements of Japanese folklore, urban legends, and supernatural horror into a unique and immersive gaming experience. Early development involved brainstorming sessions, concept art creation, and storyboarding to flesh out the game's world and narrative.
Team Formation and Pre-production[]
Tango Gameworks assembled a talented team of developers, including designers, programmers, artists, and writers, to bring the vision of "GhostWire: Tokyo" to life. Pre-production involved extensive research into Japanese mythology, culture, and urban legends, as well as prototyping gameplay mechanics and exploring technical possibilities.
"GhostWire: Tokyo" had its roots in the conceptualization of "The Evil Within 3," the anticipated sequel to Tango Gameworks' survival horror series The Evil Within. Initially, the project was set to continue the eerie and atmospheric storytelling established in the previous installments. However, as development progressed, the direction of the game began to shift changing enough from the original idea to warrant a whole new IP for the game.
Production Phase[]
The production phase of "GhostWire: Tokyo" involved the creation of assets, programming, level design, and implementation of gameplay systems. The team worked tirelessly to craft the hauntingly beautiful rendition of Tokyo seen in the game, meticulously detailing each location and character to capture the essence of the city. Iterative development cycles, playtesting, and feedback sessions helped refine the gameplay experience and ensure a high level of quality.
[]
The game was officially announced during Bethesda's E3 2019 press conference, where Shinji Mikami and Ikumi Nakamura captivated audiences with their charismatic presentation and heartfelt enthusiasm for the project. The announcement was accompanied by a teaser trailer that showcased the game's eerie atmosphere and intriguing premise, generating excitement and anticipation among fans.
Creative Collaboration[]
Throughout the development process, the team at Tango Gameworks collaborated closely with various experts and consultants to ensure authenticity and cultural sensitivity in their portrayal of Tokyo and its folklore. This collaborative approach helped to enrich the game's world-building and narrative depth, immersing players in a captivating and authentic experience. Shinichirō Hara, who worked on the combat of 2016's Doom, joined Tango to help the team craft the game's action-oriented combat. According to him, the game's combat, which was largely inspired by Kuji-kiri and martial arts, enabled the team to "put a lot more movement and personality into the player action as the player's hands are organic extensions of the character".
Departure of Ikumi Nakamura[]
In September 2019, Ikumi Nakamura announced her departure from Tango Gameworks, citing personal reasons. While her departure was a loss for the project, Nakamura's creative influence and passion for the game continued to resonate with both the development team and fans alike. Following Nakamura's departure, the development of GhostWire: Tokyo continued under the leadership of creative director Kenji Kimura and the dedicated team at Tango Gameworks. The team remained committed to realizing Nakamura's vision for the game while also incorporating their own ideas and innovations.
Release Date Delay and Optimization[]
In August 2020, Bethesda Softworks announced that the release date for "GhostWire: Tokyo" would be delayed to early 2022 to allow for additional development time and polish. This decision was made to ensure that the game met the high standards set by the development team and provided players with a polished and immersive experience.
Overall, the development of "GhostWire: Tokyo" was a testament to the creativity, passion, and dedication of the team at Tango Gameworks. From its initial conception to its eventual release, the game remained true to its vision of blending supernatural horror with Japanese folklore, offering players a one-of-a-kind journey through the haunted streets of Tokyo. Tango Gameworks continues to support the game post-launch through updates, patches, and community engagement, ensuring that players have a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Gallery[]
Editions[]
Ghostwire: Tokyo Standard Edition[]
Tokyo's population has vanished and deadly supernatural forces prowl the streets. Hone your otherwordly abilities to unravel the truth behind the disappearance and save the city. Explore brand-new single player content with the Ghostwire: Tokyo Spider’s Thread update - available free for all players!
If you pre-ordered either the standard or the deluxe edition of Ghostwire: Tokyo, you would have received the following downloadable items:
- Premium biker outfit pack (PS5 exclusive)
- Hannya outfit
Additionally, a couple of retailers were offering exclusive preorder bonuses:
- Best Buy - free steel book case
- GameStop - free tin poster
Ghostwire: Tokyo Deluxe Edition[]
Face the Unknown with style. The Ghostwire: Tokyo Deluxe Upgrade gives you the versatile Streetwear Outfit Pack or hide in the shadows with the Shinobi Outfit and Kunai weapon skin!
If you pre-ordered either the standard or the deluxe edition of Ghostwire: Tokyo, you would have received the following downloadable items:
- Premium biker outfit pack (PS5 exclusive)
- Hannya outfit
Additionally, the Deluxe Upgrade includes
- Shinobi Outfit
- Kunai Weapon
- Streetwear Fashion Pack
References[]
- ↑ PC Gamer article from February 3, 2022, IMDB
- ↑ Evil Within studio debuts supernatural action adventure, 'Ghostwire Tokyo'. Endgadget. Accessed June 11, 2019.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 Every PlayStation Exclusive From Sony's PS5 Event. IGN. Accessed June 17, 2020.
- ↑ GhostWire: Tokyo | Official Website. Bethesda.net. Accessed June 17, 2020.