Niyati Divan (Housekeeping Supervisors)

The setting changes with seasons, weather, and time of day, which affects both the story and gameplay. Snowstorms, fog, and avalanches are woven into missions. The open-world is rich with villages, shrines, and caves, making exploration deeply rewarding.

It also serves as the ultimate navigation tool. No minimap needed! You're constantly looking up at the mountain to orient yourself. The weather and spiritual state of the region you're in are visually reflected on the mountain's peak. If you see a storm swirling at the summit, you know you're heading into a troubled area. It's a masterclass in environmental storytelling.

I've only found one direct reference so far, and it was in a side quest where an old monk mentions a "legendary warrior from Tsushima island who communed with the wind." It was a really nice, understated Easter egg that made me smile. They definitely don't beat you over the head with it, which I appreciate. The game is confident enough to let its own story and legend take center stage.