The latest downloadable content for Sucker Punch's samurai action game, Ghost of Tsushima: Echoes of Sekigahara, is now available, introducing players to the new Ashoro Foothills region. While the DLC expands upon the character of Atsu and offers more of the acclaimed open-world exploration, including activities like finding fox dens and visiting hot springs, its standout feature is an unforgettable boss fight involving giant bears.
Throughout the DLC’s narrative, players encounter new bounties, many of which target individuals vying for influence within the Yōtei Six. One such bounty leads to a particularly memorable boss encounter that requires minimal direct intervention from the player.
A Fierce Alliance
The Echoes of Sekigahara expansion delves into the impact of the Viper gang on the Ashoro Foothills, affecting both its human inhabitants and wildlife. A bounty for "Umakichi the Bear Slayer" reveals a villain who cruelly uses caged bears for his soldiers' "training." The boss fight arena is grimly adorned with the remains of these animals.
Umakichi, a large adversary armed with heavy weapons, is supported by a group of henchmen. Fortunately, Atsu is not alone. As Atsu engages Umakichi's forces, two of the captive bears break free and join her side. This chaotic alliance turns the tide, with the bears actively participating in the fight. At one point, a bear even launches an enemy soldier towards Atsu, allowing for an easy takedown.
Once Atsu dispatches the remaining goons, the player is free to focus on Umakichi. However, the bears take the lead, engaging Umakichi directly. The source material describes the scene as hilarious, with the "bear slayer" being manhandled by the very animals he abused. While Atsu can land a few blows with her new heavy weapons, the bears do the bulk of the damage.
It becomes apparent that the bears are systematically defeating Umakichi, leaving Atsu to simply deliver the final blow, which she takes her time doing, allowing the bears to exact their revenge.
Wildlife's Retribution
The bear boss fight serves as a narrative device to highlight how the Vipers' presence has harmed the local wildlife. The expansion emphasizes the interconnectedness of Atsu with her environment, an element that has been a praised aspect of Ghost of Tsushima.
Earlier in the DLC, players might assist a golden bird, which normally guides Atsu to points of interest, after it is endangered by Vipers. Other encounters involve freeing a wounded fox caught in Viper traps. The narrative also showcases sanctuaries, such as a deer haven discovered en route to a shrine, indicating that some creatures have found refuge from the Vipers.
The unique boss fight, where bears act as powerful allies, echoes Atsu's established bond with nature, similar to how her wolf companion assists her in standoffs. The article humorously concludes by reinterpreting "Umakichi the Bear Slayer" as "Umakichi, slayed by bears."
