Ghost of Yotei offers several difficulty settings that differ greatly from one another. We’ll tell you which one you should pick.
When you start Ghost of Yotei, you’ll face an important decision right away: which difficulty level will you choose as you make your way through Ezo? Your choice affects how intense and demanding your adventure becomes – not only in combat, but also while exploring and sneaking around. In this guide, we’ll show you all available levels, explain their differences, and recommend which mode best suits your playstyle.
The Five Difficulty Settings in Ghost of Yotei
Ghost of Yotei features five preset difficulty levels plus a custom mode that gives you full control. Each level changes enemy behavior, damage values, and your healing potential.
Casual: For Story Fans and Beginners
Here, the focus lies on the story. Fights are much easier, enemies react slower, and you can explore the setting without stress. Perfect if you want to immerse yourself in the atmosphere and characters.
Easy: Story-Focused with Light Challenge
Still very accessible but a bit more demanding than “Easygoing”. Enemies can take more hits but don’t require perfect reactions. Ideal if you want tension without breaking a sweat in every duel.
Medium: The Balanced Experience
This is the classic Ghost of Yotei experience. You’ll get solid combat, fair enemies, and enough room to improve your tactics. For most players, this is the recommended choice for a first playthrough – it feels the most balanced overall.
- Our Recommendation: If you want the ideal mix of enjoyable combat and relaxed storytelling, go with “Normal.” The game still forgives some mistakes here, and enemies occasionally pause briefly before attacking again.
Hard: For Skilled Swordfighters
Enemies act more aggressively and hit harder. Mistakes are costly, and perfect parries require precise timing. This mode is for players already familiar with action-adventures or Soulslike mechanics.
Lethal: Maximum Thrill
One or two hits and you’re done – but the same applies to your enemies. “Lethal” rewards perfect timing, sharp observation, and relentless perseverance. A mode for those who want absolute control and know their limits.
Custom: You’re in Control
Here, you can fine-tune elements like enemy strength, parry windows, and healing efficiency. Perfect if you’re looking for your personal balance between story and challenge.
Important: You Can Change the Difficulty Anytime
Ghost of Yotei doesn’t lock you into your initial choice. If a boss becomes too overwhelming or the game feels too easy, you can adjust the difficulty anytime via the menu. This makes experimenting simple and convenient.
- Tip: Trophy hunters don’t need to go for the hardest difficulty – there are no difficulty-related trophies. You can earn the Platinum on any level. If you’d like to learn more, check out our Ghost of Yotei trophy guide.
Which Difficulty Is Right for You?
- Beginners or story fans: Start with Easygoing or Easy until you get used to the controls.
- Action veterans: Try Normal for the best balance of gameplay and challenge.
- Experienced fighters: Hard or Lethal deliver the intense adrenaline rush the series is known for.
