In comparison to The Last of Us Part 2, Ghost of Tsushima feels like a huge step back for accessibility options with PlayStation's games. It has a few features that help minor aspects of the game, but the lack of any other control method makes the accessibility options fall flat. Perhaps Sucker Punch should get in a call with Naughty Dog for advice on possible updates with the title, but until then, here are the options that are currently in Ghost of Tsushima.
Subtitle Backdrop
This setting will help you see the text easier by adding a black box under the white text. It makes it easier to read dialogue while exploring the world. In most major cutscenes, the text is automatically in front of a black background because the scene switches to a widescreen "cinematic" look. There isn't any way to make the text any bigger, but at least it can be easier to see.
Simplified Controls
This feature will make it easier for players who can't input buttons quickly. Rapid button presses no longer have a time constraint, so activities like Bamboo Strike can be completed easily without any fuss; you just have to memorize the buttons.
Toggle Button Holds and Aim Assist
Can't hold a button for long? This setting will come in handy. All you have to do is tap the button, and it will hold it for you. For example, if you need to use the bow & arrow, you just need to tap it to remain in the targeting position. You tap it again to get out of it. The one caveat that comes with this mode is that it's awkward to get out of the bow & arrow position in those quick-decision moments when you need a sword. You need to press R2 again, and it's tough to switch back into the action. If Sucker Punch allowed the use of the square button to instantly while in the bow & arrow mode to get back to the sword, that would be brilliant.
The button hold option also makes it easier to switch to different stances. Rather than holding the R2 button and press triangle, circle, cross, or square at the same time, you just have to tap both buttons in sequential order.
Aim Assist is what it says on the tin. It instantly locks on to a target for you, but it only directs the arrow to the stomach, not the head. For the perfect shot, the player needs to awkwardly tilt the right stick up, which kinda goes against the point of an aim assist. It feels like a resistance band wanting to back to its normal position after being stretched. If you want to make the arrow shooting easier, Sucker Punch, take Thanos' advice and go for the head.
Projectile Indicator
Those who are hard of hearing would love this. Instead of having to rely on the shouts of the archers to know when they shoot, there is an exclamatory indicator above their heads. This will let players know when to start dodging. With a red and white sign, it stands out within the game's realistic splendor. It does fail at presenting two different indicators from different angles at the same time, but this situation is rare.
The problems
There are a multitude of issues that plague this game from being accessible. First is the controls. There are no other options than the default set up. Now, you can actually remap the buttons through the accessibility options on the PS4 settings menu, but they aren't officially programmed for the game. It would be nice to get more recommended ways to play the game from Sucker Punch.
Then, there is an issue revolving around the usage of the DualShock 4. Players who aren't able to flick a finger on the touchpad won't be able to summon the wind; it shows players the way to an area on the map rather than an arrow or in-game UI.
If you are colorblind or have trouble seeing the screen, you should know there are a few important missions that require you to find specific colored objects like violet flowers to progress. Without any options for those who can't see color and others, it may be difficult for some to enjoy this game without walking around aimlessly. Options like increasing the size of text would be beneficial too.
Hopefully, Naughty Dog's incredible accessibility options can be brought to all PlayStation Studios' upcoming games. It can really make a difference and allow those less fortunate to enjoy the game as much as everyone else. Can we, as an industry, make accessibility like this a norm?