Mythic Tale: The Undying Flame - Ghost of Tsushima

Introduction

Ghost of Tsushima, the critically acclaimed open-world action-adventure game developed by Sucker Punch Productions, offers players a deeply immersive samurai experience. One of the standout features of the game is its Mythic Tales, which provide Jin Sakai, the protagonist, with powerful and legendary techniques. These quests blend folklore, combat, and exploration to create some of the most memorable moments in the game. Among these, The Undying Flame is a particularly significant Mythic Tale that challenges Jin both physically and mentally, ultimately rewarding him with the powerful Way of the Flame technique.

This article delves into the origins, objectives, mechanics, and strategies for completing The Undying Flame and how it impacts Jin’s journey through Tsushima.

Origins of The Undying Flame

The legend of the Undying Flame is one of perseverance, resilience, and mastery of fire as a weapon. The tale revolves around Bettomaru, a legendary warrior who supposedly mastered the power of fire and used it to strike fear into his enemies. This technique allowed him to coat his sword in flames, dealing devastating damage to his opponents. Passed down through generations, this technique was thought to be lost—until whispers of its existence resurface, drawing Jin to investigate.

Jin learns of the legend through a storyteller in the region of Kamiagata, the northernmost part of Tsushima. The tale speaks of a treacherous climb to a frozen mountain peak, where only those who can withstand the harshest conditions and prove their worth may inherit Bettomaru’s secret technique. Intrigued by the possibility of acquiring such power, Jin sets off on his journey to claim the Way of the Flame.

Beginning The Mythic Tale: The Journey to White Peaks

The Undying Flame begins when Jin encounters a storyteller in Jogaku, a snow-covered settlement in northern Tsushima. The storyteller speaks of a lone warrior who mastered fire at the peak of Mount Jogaku and how only the strongest can survive the freezing climb to learn the Way of the Flame.

Jin, determined to uncover the truth, begins his ascent up the treacherous Mount Jogaku, facing freezing temperatures and a brutal natural environment. Unlike other quests, this Mythic Tale introduces a unique survival mechanic—Jin must stay warm by locating and standing near campfires scattered across the mountain. Straying too far from a heat source for too long results in his death, adding a layer of tension and urgency to the climb.

The Challenge of Mount Jogaku

Mount Jogaku is one of the most perilous locations in the game. Its intense blizzards reduce visibility, making it difficult to navigate. Players must carefully observe their surroundings, as taking the wrong path can lead to deadly exposure to the cold. Key strategies for surviving this climb include:

Prioritizing Campfires: The fires scattered throughout the mountain are the only way to keep Jin alive. Players should move quickly but efficiently from one campfire to the next.
Listening for Audio Cues: The sound of wind and distant crackling fires can help guide Jin toward safety.
Using the Guiding Wind: This feature, unique to Ghost of Tsushima, can assist in finding the correct path.

Successfully reaching the peak of Mount Jogaku proves Jin’s resilience and determination, traits essential for mastering the Way of the Flame.

The Duel with Bettomaru

At the summit of Mount Jogaku, Jin encounters Bettomaru, the keeper of the Undying Flame. Unlike previous duels, this battle takes place in a frozen, isolated location, amplifying the intensity of the fight. Bettomaru wields a flaming sword, showcasing the devastating power of the Way of the Flame. His attacks are swift and relentless, setting his enemies ablaze and forcing Jin to fight strategically.

Key Strategies for Defeating Bettomaru:

Avoiding Fire Attacks: Rolling and dodging are crucial to avoiding being set ablaze.
Parrying and Counterattacks: Bettomaru is aggressive, but well-timed parries create openings for counterstrikes.
Utilizing Resolve Wisely: Keeping Resolve high allows Jin to heal when necessary and execute powerful attacks.

After an intense battle, Jin emerges victorious, proving himself worthy of the Undying Flame. Bettomaru, acknowledging Jin’s skill, passes on the secret of the Way of the Flame, allowing Jin to harness fire in his sword strikes.

Mechanics and Execution of the Way of the Flame

The Way of the Flame is a special ability that allows Jin to temporarily coat his sword in fire, dealing immense damage to enemies. This technique is particularly useful against heavily armored foes and can turn the tide of battle in difficult encounters.

To use the Way of the Flame, players must:

Equip Oil-soaked Cloth, a consumable item needed to ignite Jin’s sword.
Activate the technique, setting the blade ablaze for a limited time.
Strike enemies to inflict fire damage, causing them to panic and stagger.

The addition of fire-based attacks significantly expands Jin’s combat repertoire, making him even more formidable against Mongol invaders and rogue samurai.

Strategic Uses of the Way of the Flame

Once unlocked, the Way of the Flame offers various tactical advantages:

Against Armored Foes: The fire-based attacks weaken heavily armored enemies, making them easier to defeat.
Crowd Control: Enemies struck by fire often panic and stagger, giving Jin an opportunity to attack further.
Duels and Boss Battles: The technique is particularly effective in one-on-one fights where dealing high burst damage is essential.
Psychological Warfare: Enemies react fearfully to fire, potentially causing them to flee or become disoriented.

However, the Way of the Flame requires Oil-soaked Cloth, which is a limited resource. Players must use it wisely and replenish supplies when necessary.

The Significance of The Undying Flame in Jin’s Journey

The Undying Flame is more than just another Mythic Tale—it represents Jin’s continued evolution as a warrior. Unlike traditional samurai who rely solely on skill and discipline, Jin embraces unconventional techniques to ensure the survival of his people. Mastering the Way of the Flame signifies his willingness to adapt and wield whatever means necessary to defeat the Mongols.

Additionally, the quest itself is symbolic of perseverance. The climb up Mount Jogaku is a test of endurance, reflecting Jin’s inner struggle as he transitions from an honorable samurai to the legendary Ghost. By enduring the cold, overcoming Bettomaru, and mastering fire as a weapon, Jin cements his place as a warrior of legend.

Conclusion

The Undying Flame is one of the most memorable and rewarding Mythic Tales in Ghost of Tsushima. From the treacherous ascent up Mount Jogaku to the climactic duel with Bettomaru, the quest encapsulates the game’s themes of endurance, adaptability, and legendary heroism. The Way of the Flame is not only a powerful combat tool but also a testament to Jin’s growth as a warrior willing to embrace both tradition and innovation.

For players looking to dominate the battlefield, unlocking and mastering the Way of the Flame is a must. Whether igniting fear in the hearts of enemies or turning the tide in challenging fights, this legendary technique ensures that Jin Sakai remains a force to be reckoned with.