Ghost of Yotei ESRB Rating Confirms Return of Hot Springs and Sake Drinking Mini-Game

image: Atsu from Ghost of Yotei/Sucker Punch

Sucker Punch’s highly anticipated samurai adventure, Ghost of Yotei, is shaping up to be more than just a spiritual successor to Ghost of Tsushima. Thanks to a newly surfaced ESRB rating, we now know the game is bringing back some fan-favorite features—hot springs and sake-drinking—with its own twists.

What Does the ESRB Rating Reveal?

The Ghost of Yotei ESRB rating has officially marked the game as M for Mature (17+), due to “Blood and Gore, Drug Reference, Intense Violence, Language, Partial Nudity, Use of Alcohol.” 

While this might not surprise veterans of Ghost of Tsushima, the description gives fans a closer look at what’s in store for the game’s new protagonist, Atsu.

And one specific detail definitely caught people’s attention: “A female character’s exposed buttocks is depicted in a hot spring.”

Yep—hot springs are back, and this time, it’s Atsu stepping in. Ghost of Tsushima made hot springs iconic—yes, for their gameplay value, but also for those cheeky moments showing off Jin’s bare backside.

In Ghost of Yotei, it looks like that playful tradition is sticking around. Atsu will have her own moments in the springs, complete with partial nudity, and once again, players can decide if they’re in it for the health boost—or just enjoying the view.

Also confirmed? Sake drinking. Players will be able to buy and enjoy sake throughout the game, with on-screen blur effects simulating the buzz.

But it doesn’t stop there—Atsu will even take part in sake-drinking contests with locals. Think of it as a lighthearted mini-game tucked into the otherwise serious and intense samurai tale.

Combat, Gore, and Grit: What Else Is Included?

If you thought Ghost of Yotei was only about scenic baths and traditional drinks, think again. The ESRB rating also reveals that the game will feature:

• Katana, spear, bow, and rifle combat

• Brutal melee-style duels

• Bounty hunting and side interactions

• Extreme gore, including decapitations, dismemberment, and neck-stabbing animations

Cutscenes won’t shy away from graphic content either. Expect scenes of characters being burned at the stake, brutally stabbed repeatedly, and even one committing suicide (a character slitting their own throat).

A full gameplay deep dive for Ghost of Yotei is reportedly coming next month. Also, fun crossover content is already on the horizon—VIP Bots inspired by Ghost of Yotei are set to arrive in Astro Bot.