Originally released on PlayStation consoles in 2020, Ghost of Tsushima is a blood and guts adventure set within the stunningly realized digital landscape of feudal Japan. Undoubtedly a huge hit with PlayStation users, PC gamers have been waiting patiently for their turn to inhabit Jin Sakai, a samurai risking everything to defend Tsushima from the Mongol invaders pillaging the land.
Fortunately, that wait is almost over with Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut set to launch on PC on May 16th, but the wording of PlayStation’s release statement has caught our eye, and although PC gamers will be able to enjoy the title in its full glory, the picture doesn’t sound quite as rosy for Steam Deck users.
What have PlayStation said in their statement to cause concern?
Firstly the good news. PlayStation has confirmed that Steam Deck users will be able to enjoy the full single-player campaign, including the Iki Island expansion from the Director’s Cut, and we were reassured further by their commitment in the statement from the developers that ‘we’ve worked extensively to optimize performance and deliver the best possible experience on these devices.’ So far, so good.
It’s when it comes to the Legends co-op multiplayer mode that Steam Deck users might start to feel uneasy. Although PC users can enjoy cross-play between players on PS4 consoles, PS5 consoles, and PC, (albeit initially launching in Beta,) Steam Deck gamers will notice that the game is marked as ‘Unsupported’ by Steam. PlayStation explains this is due to ‘the Legends co-op multiplayer mode requiring Windows to access PlayStation Network integrated features.’
This quote, alongside wording that seems to exclude the multiplayer mode from the list of the game’s features on handheld devices, unfortunately suggests that Steam Deck users will not be able to access multiplayer mode which would be a real shame. Having said that, the single-player campaign is what most gamers will purchase the title for, and to be honest, we’re just relieved that we’ll finally be able to enjoy the game on PC come May 16th.
Where to buy Ghost of Tsushima Director’s Cut
The game is available to be pre-purchased and pre-loaded now on Steam for $59.99 ahead of the official release on May 16th, 08:00 PDT. Similarly, you’ll be able to pre-purchase the game on the Epic Games Store at the same price – not that there’s any reason to do this as a Steam Deck user.
