Ex-Sony Exec Responds to Ghost of Yotei Female Protagonist Criticism

Former Sony executive Shawn Layden has spoken out against the controversy surrounding Ghost of Yotei‘s new female protagonist. The sequel to Ghost of Tsushima, Ghost of Yotei, was announced during the September 24 State of Play that Sony hosted. Ghost of Tsushima was a hit by longtime developer Sucker Punch Productions. Although there aren’t many details about Ghost of Yotei following its announcement, it has attracted the ire of some communities.

Some people have responded negatively to the announcement of Ghost of Yotei. Many were fairly upset about the fact that this game would not be a direct sequel to Ghost of Tsushima, a narrative they were already invested in. However, other people voiced resentment over the fact that this game’s protagonist would be a woman. Ghost of Yotei‘s main character, Atsu, will offer a different perspective on the journey of a “Ghost” within the context of this game’s world, and Sucker Punch has voiced its excitement about bringing this project to the players.

In response to the negative reception of Ghost of Yotei‘s reveal, PlayStation alumnus Shawn Layden recommends that people use their personal judgment and common sense. Layden responded to a screenshot that YouTuber MightyKeef took of the outrage, stating that the team at Sucker Punch truly wants to make this game. He follows up by suggesting that if someone doesn’t like what that team is making, they should avoid the game. Alternatively, they could even try making their own video game.

Shawn Layden Defends Sucker Punch Productions

Shawn Layden followed up the exchange with a GIF quoting Zoolander, saying “I feel like I’m taking crazy pills,” poking fun at how intense discourse surrounding this game has become so soon. Layden, who has served as CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment America, is deeply familiar with the factors that influence game development. It is reasonable to take his word for it when he says that Ghost of Yotei is “a story a team of creators believes in.” His sentiment makes it clear that if some people disagree with that vision, it won’t stop the game from getting made.

The outrage stemming from the reveal of this game cites discontent at media encroaching on masculinity, suggesting that it’s being “replaced by women.” This is a statement that many familiar with Ghost of Tsushima find confusing, because some of the strongest characters in its cast, such as Masako Adachi, who almost kills Jin the first time they meet, are women. Masako’s story is central to the narrative, and that’s just one example. The involvement of women within the context of the Ghost series doesn’t appear to be changing anytime soon.