Although the story and characters are fictional, Ghost of Tsushima is in a real place. As it was well established, Sucker Punch’s open world samurai adventure takes place on the titular island, which was indeed invaded by the Mongol army in 1274. Much (much!) More recently, the successful game has popularized the location , and Japan is fully aware of this; the Tsushima tourist site largely features PlayStation 4 exclusivity, after all.
The island’s popularity has grown dramatically in recent months, as fans of the game get involved in events happening in the real world. Earlier this year, a typhoon struck Tsushima and one of the island’s gates was severely damaged. Ghost players will know that these gates lead to Shinto shrines (although the real ones don’t give you strong charms). Altar priest Yuichi Hirayama has started a campfire campaign, which is essentially a Kickstarter, to raise funds for torii repairs.
Asking for 5 million yen, the campaign began on November 27. A few weeks later, the crowdfunding page has now raised more than 20 million yen, more than four times the original target. In a Famitsu report (translated by Twinfinite), Yuichi Hirayama writes in an update that much of this huge support goes to Ghost of Tsushima fans.
It’s great to hear that passionate players have managed to channel their love of the game into something that has an impact on the real world. We hope that once they travel safely again, people will be able to visit Tsushima and see the torii gate restored in all its splendor.
How is this for a good story to bring you into the holiday spirit?