Ghost of Tsushima, with its sprawling open world, is filled with diverse activities that enrich the player’s experience and enhance the skills of the protagonist, Jin Sakai. From boosting health in serene onsens to acquiring new charms at sacred shinto shrines, the game offers a plethora of enriching experiences for players.
One particularly captivating feature is the Duels, which celebrate the heroic showdowns reminiscent of Akira Kurosawa’s iconic films. Within the game, players encounter a total of 25 Duels, most of which are integral to the main storyline, specific Tales, and serve as climactic battles against formidable opponents across various Mongol Territories. Successfully completing all of these challenges rewards players with the coveted There Can Only Be One trophy.
Available in the open world, players can engage in just five Duels in the Toyotama Region, specifically tied to the Mythic Tale titled “The Six Blades of Kojiro.”Here, Jin faces off against five Straw Hat Ronin before confronting Kojiro himself, offering one of the most engaging experiences in the game.
While each Duel has its own unique flair, certain encounters stand out due to their design, the personalities of the foes involved, or their dramatic setting. Below are the most memorable Duels, each showcasing the beauty and intensity of samurai combat.
6. Yasumasa
Duel in the Drowning Marsh
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Location |
Old Kanazawa Marsh |
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The Duel in the Drowning Marsh unfolds in the Old Kanazawa Marsh, located northwest of Akashima Village. Here, players face off against Yasumasa, who initially takes a boy hostage to bait Jin. Despite his arrogance, Yasumasa’s bravado quickly falters when confronted by Jin’s skill, ultimately ending his life and allegiance to Kojiro.
This duel is visually striking, though lighting conditions significantly affect its ambiance, as the marsh itself can appear uninviting. The gritty atmosphere enhances the rawness of the battle, although the combat may feel somewhat familiar when compared to earlier encounters.
5. Computer
Duel Under Autumn Leaves
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Location |
Yamabushi Peak |
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Positioned east of Castle Shimura, the Duel Under Autumn Leaves features Kanetomo, an opponent whose sadistic tendencies are evident in his violent impatience. In a display of ruthless brutality, Kanetomo takes innocent lives while awaiting Jin, igniting a fierce and aggressive confrontation amidst the vibrant fall foliage.
The aesthetic of this duel complements its intensity, with a backdrop of fiery red leaves enhancing the atmosphere. While Kanetomo’s motivations might lack depth, the stunning scenery more than compensates for it.
4. Hirotsune
Duel Among the Spider Lilies
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Location |
Field of the Equinox Flower |
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Located just west of the previous duel, the Duel Among the Spider Lilies introduces Hirotsune who is shown training when Jin arrives. Enthusiastic about facing Jin, he is drawn into battle by tales from Ryuzo about Jin’s prowess.
Hirotsune’s character is compelling, expressing genuine admiration for Jin’s skills, which adds a layer of poignancy to their conflict, especially given the spider lilies’ association with death in Japanese culture.
3. Kiyochika
Duel Under Falling Water
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Location |
Musashi Coast Waterfall |
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The Duel Under Falling Water, set beneath a majestic waterfall along the Musashi Coast, introduces Kiyochika. This encounter is marked by Kiyochika’s composed demeanor, offering Jin casual conversation about their duel as he appears more focused on duty than malice.
The rushing waters provide a dramatic audio-visual backdrop, enhancing the battle’s intensity while reinforcing Kiyochika’s potential as an unlikely ally.
2. Kojiro
Duel on the Mirror of Sacred Light
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Location |
Omi Monastery |
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After conquering the previous five challenges, players face off against Kojiro in the Duel on the Mirror of Sacred Light. Set within the stunning Omi Monastery, this duel serves as a climactic finale marked by dazzling visuals of floating lanterns amidst a serene water setting.
The encounter blends beauty with intensity as Kojiro challenges Jin, and while he believes he holds the upper hand, Jin’s resilience shines through. This duel encapsulates the essence of samurai honor and sets the stage for an unforgettable conclusion.
1. Tomosugu
Duel of Crashing Waves
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Location |
Shore of Cloud Ridge Shrine |
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Regarded as the pinnacle of all Duels, the Duel of Crashing Waves occurs along the picturesque shoreline of the Cloud Ridge Shrine. Here, players confront Tomotsugu, a character distinguished by his honor and respect, contrasting sharply with previous adversaries.
The setting is a masterpiece, with crashing waves and heavy rainfall contributing to an atmosphere reflective of classic samurai cinema. Tomotsugu’s refusal to abandon his oath adds a heartbreaking layer to this encounter, compelling Jin to acknowledge his honor even in defeat.
This duel serves not only as an exciting conclusion to Jin’s journey but also as a haunting foreshadowing of his own fate, making it a memorable experience that players will undoubtedly want to revisit.
After completing the game, players can replay these memorable Duels, with the Duel of Crashing Waves standing out as a must-experience battle for every fan of the game.
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