Why some people accuse Ghost of Tsushima of racism and cultural appropriation

It comes as a surprise to many that Ghost of Tsushima, a game hailed by Japanese players for its respectful and realistic portrayal of Japanese culture and history, has faced accusations of cultural appropriation and racism. These critiques, often coming from white individuals, appear insincere and driven by a desperate need to assert superiority over others. However, the overwhelming reception of the game in both the U.S. and Japan contradicts such claims.

Achieving respect and authenticity

During the game's development, the developers made significant changes based on feedback from the Japanese community, such as altering the bow mechanics to reflect the use of longer bows historically employed by the Japanese. This emphasis on historically accurate representations underscores the developers' commitment to respect and authenticity.

Initial Response and Feedback

During the E3 demonstration, the game featured a white man playing a flute, which garnered some initial criticism online. However, this backlash was minor and short-lived. The game's reception has been overwhelmingly positive. A samurai expert who reviewed the game was critical of some unrealistic elements but noted that no part of the game disrespected Japanese culture. His conclusion was that the game was fine, as long as it wasn't dishonorable to simply kill those who opposed the protagonist.

Understanding Cultural Appropriation

Cultural appropriation is often misunderstood. While it can be problematic when used irresponsibly, it is not inherently negative. It can be a mechanism through which a game or other forms of media can bring important cultural narratives to a wider audience, as long as it is done thoughtfully and with respect to the source culture.

Support from the Japanese Community

It is worth noting that the Japanese community, particularly those with deep knowledge of their own culture, has generally shown support for Ghost of Tsushima. If any significant backlash were to emerge from within the Japanese gaming community, it would be far more noteworthy than the relatively minor criticisms from a small group of individuals in the West.

Moreover, the game's success in Japan further underlines its accuracy and respect for Japanese culture. In a country whose reverence for cultural traditions is profound, Ghost of Tsushima has found a place in the hearts of many gamers, proving that thoughtful and respectful representation can be celebrated and embraced by the very people whose culture is being depicted.

Conclusion

The criticisms levelled against Ghost of Tsushima stem more from a need to find fault in someone else's work than any genuine concern for cultural respect. The game's success in both the U.S. and Japan speaks to its ability to achieve just that. As long as cultural appropriation is approached with thoughtfulness and respect, it can lead to the creation of games that not only entertain but also educate and inspire.