Izuhara, the southernmost region of Tsushima Island in the game Ghost of Tsushima, is where players begin their journey as Jin Sakai, the samurai turned Ghost. As Mongol forces spread across the island, various locations in Izuhara become occupied. To push back the invaders and reclaim the land, players must liberate these strategic points. Liberating areas in Izuhara not only reduces Mongol influence but also unlocks new resources, fast travel points, and enhances the immersive gameplay experience. Exploring and freeing every corner of Izuhara is essential to Jin’s path in his fight for Tsushima’s freedom.
Understanding the Liberation Mechanics
Why Liberation Matters
In Ghost of Tsushima, liberating locations plays a significant role in the broader narrative and in shaping the world around the player. By removing Mongol presence from Izuhara, players:
- Gain access to new fast travel points.
- Unlock Legend growth and Ghost weapon upgrades.
- Receive rewards such as technique points and resources.
- See a visible change in the atmosphere, with civilians returning and enemy patrols decreasing.
This progression system ties closely to the emotional and strategic journey of reclaiming the island.
Types of Places to Liberate
There are several types of locations in Izuhara that require liberation. These include:
- Forts Large, heavily guarded areas often containing captains and valuable loot.
- Farms and Villages Often symbolic centers where local people have been displaced or killed.
- Lighthouses Important for visibility and control over coastal routes.
- Logging Camps and Outposts Typically smaller areas that provide resources to the Mongol army.
Key Liberation Targets in Izuhara
1. Azamo Bay
One of the most impactful locations to liberate in Izuhara is Azamo Bay. This port town is overrun by Mongols early in the game. When players reclaim it, it becomes a bustling hub for merchants and armorers. Azamo Bay is also significant due to its early-game placement, setting the tone for the rest of the liberation journey.
2. Ogawa Dojo
Located in the Azamo region, Ogawa Dojo serves as a strategic site taken over by Mongol warriors. It’s relatively small but well-guarded, making it an excellent location to test stealth and combat techniques. Reclaiming it helps reduce Mongol presence in the Azamo area and boosts local morale.
3. Logging Base at Logging Camp
This Mongol-controlled lumber operation is used to supply the invaders with building materials and fuel. Players can use the terrain to their advantage and plan strategic takedowns. Clearing it provides access to valuable supplies and furthers the effort to cut off Mongol resources.
4. River Child’s Wetlands
Situated in Ariake, the River Child’s Wetlands are not only visually atmospheric but also represent an ecological region impacted by war. Players must clear out Mongol forces occupying this area. Once liberated, the wetlands return to a more peaceful, natural state, and the tension in the surrounding area reduces.
5. Winding Trail Crossing
This location serves as a tactical chokepoint in the Ariake region. Its liberation is crucial for safe travel between key regions and for opening up pathways for exploration. Mongol patrols often move through this crossing, so defeating them grants a sense of strategic control.
6. Shigenori’s Peak
Though primarily known for the Mythic Tale associated with it, Shigenori’s Peak also has Mongol presence in its surrounding regions. Freeing nearby outposts aids not just in geographical control, but in accessing one of the more mystical stories of the game.
7. Hiyoshi Springs Vicinity
While Hiyoshi Springs itself serves as a safe zone, nearby areas such as camps and crossroads fall under Mongol influence. Clearing these threats helps make Hiyoshi a more secure and central base for Jin. It also allows free movement across the Hiyoshi region, which is full of side quests and character development moments.
8. Komoda Town
Komoda is a symbolic location due to its connection to the opening battle of the game. Liberating this area can feel personal to players, as it represents reclaiming the place where Jin’s journey began. The Mongol resistance here is strong, but so are the rewards.
Approaches to Liberation
Stealth vs. Combat
Each Mongol-controlled area offers players the choice of approach. Players can:
- Use stealth to eliminate enemies silently and avoid alarms.
- Charge in head-on with full combat gear for dramatic encounters.
- Use Ghost weapons like smoke bombs, kunai, and wind chimes to manipulate and control enemy movement.
Every approach yields different experiences and rewards, letting players tailor their tactics to their preferred playstyle.
Observing and Challenging Leaders
In many larger camps, Mongol leaders can be observed or challenged directly. Observing a leader grants a technique point, while defeating them contributes to unlocking powerful stances like the Moon or Water stance. These stances are crucial for dealing with different types of enemies and make subsequent liberations smoother.
What You Gain from Liberation
Game Progress and Rewards
Besides freeing the island, every liberation contributes to the player’s overall Legend rank. This rank determines Jin’s progression from Samurai to Ghost and unlocks more skills and abilities. Rewards for liberation also include:
- Supplies
- Technique points
- Rare materials (wax wood, steel, linen)
- Increased ally support and available quests
Environmental and Visual Changes
Once a place is liberated, it visibly changes. Smoke signals are replaced by birds, guards are replaced by civilians, and Mongol banners are torn down. These aesthetic shifts make the world feel responsive and alive, reinforcing the sense that Jin’s actions matter.
Tips for Efficient Liberation
Use the Guiding Wind
The game’s Guiding Wind mechanic can be used to lead players to undiscovered locations, including places that need liberation. This tool ensures that players don’t miss any hidden camps or villages under threat.
Upgrade Your Gear
Before taking on larger forts or camps, it’s wise to upgrade Jin’s armor and weapons. Visit liberated towns like Azamo Bay to find armorers and swordsmiths who can enhance Jin’s combat capabilities.
Combine Liberation with Exploration
Many areas near liberation zones contain side quests, hidden shrines, or collectible items. Players should take time to explore thoroughly after clearing Mongol camps to make the most of each journey.
Izuhara is not only the opening act of Ghost of Tsushima, but also a symbol of the fight to reclaim Tsushima piece by piece. Each liberated place tells a story of resistance, survival, and the price of freedom. From Azamo Bay to Komoda Town, every region you reclaim brings the island closer to peace and prepares Jin Sakai for the greater battles ahead. Liberation is more than just a task it’s the heart of restoring balance and honor to a land torn by war.