Your Guide to Choosing and Naming Your Horse in Ghost of Yotei

If you’ve been galloping around Hokkaido on the same nameless horse since the beginning of Ghost of Yotei, here’s some good news: you don’t have to stick with your starter steed. Just like Jin’s bond with his horse in Ghost of Tsushima, Atsu can form a deeper connection with her companion—but Sucker Punch has made the process a bit more meaningful this time around.

Here’s the thing though: Getting a new horse isn’t as straightforward as visiting a stable and picking one out. It’s tied to a specific quest that digs into Atsu’s past, and once you make your choice, you’re committed. So let’s break down everything you need to know before you whistle for that new ride.

Why the Horse Choice Matters (Even Though Stats Don’t)

Before we dive into the how-to, let’s address the elephant—or rather, horse—in the room. The three horses you can choose from don’t have different stats. No speed demons, no stamina champions, no secret advantages. This is purely an aesthetic choice, which honestly? I kind of love.

It means you can pick based on what feels right for your version of Atsu without worrying about min-maxing your mount. That white horse with the flowing mane calling to you? Go for it. Prefer the mysterious vibe of the black stallion? Perfect. It’s all about the journey, not the numbers.

But here’s the catch: This is a one-time decision. Once you name your horse, that’s your companion for the entire game. No returns, no exchanges, no buyer’s remorse allowed.

Unlocking the Old Trails Quest: A Journey Into Atsu’s Childhood

Step 1: Return Home

Head back to Atsu’s home in the Yotei Grasslands by Lake Shikotsu. This is where the magic happens—literally, as you’re about to time travel.

Step 2: Enter the Past

Once you’re at the house, hold the Touch Pad to trigger a flashback. You’ll find yourself playing as young Atsu, experiencing a memory from her childhood. It’s a neat storytelling device that Sucker Punch uses throughout the game to add emotional depth.

Step 3: Talk to Your Brother

Look to the right of the entrance and you’ll spot Atsu’s twin brother digging in the dirt (as kids do). Interact with him to start a conversation where Atsu mentions her father taking her to the stables. This dialogue is the trigger you need.

Step 4: Return to Present

Hold the Touch Pad again to snap back to the present. The Old Trails quest will now be unlocked and available on your map. Equip it using the D-Pad to begin your horse-hunting adventure.

Finding the Old Stables: Where Your New Companion Awaits

Now comes the actual journey. The Old Stables are located in the southeast region of Shikotsu Woods, which means you’ll be traveling far west from Atsu’s home. It’s a bit of a trek, but the payoff is worth it.

What to Expect When You Arrive:

The setup is classic Ghost of Yotei: You’ll stumble upon two villains mistreating a horse. Do what Atsu does best and take them out. The freed horse will lead you back to the Old Stables, but don’t expect a happy reunion just yet—the stables are empty except for a lone Settler.

Here’s where it gets interesting:

• Talk to the Settler to trigger a combat encounter with Saito’s Outlaws
• After defeating them, follow the Settler into an open field
• This triggers another flashback with young Atsu and her father

The Tracking Sequence

In the flashback, you’ll need to track horses with Atsu’s father. It’s a simple but atmospheric sequence:

1. Examine the horse manure (glamorous, right?)
2. Follow the muddy trail to the right
3. Climb the cliff you discover
4. Once at the top, use the Whistle (Left on D-Pad)

And boom—you’re back in the present, standing before three gorgeous horses.

Meet Your Options: The Three Horses

When the moment of truth arrives, you’ll have three choices:

• White Horse (your current default companion)
• Black Horse (for that mysterious lone wanderer aesthetic)
• Dappled Horse (a beautiful middle ground with unique coloring)

My take? I went with the dappled horse on my playthrough. There’s something about that coat pattern that felt distinctly Hokkaido—wild, natural, and tied to the land Atsu is fighting for. But honestly, all three are beautifully designed, so trust your gut.

Naming Your New Friend

After selecting your horse, you can name it using Triangle, Circle, or X. This is where the bond truly forms. Take your time with this—you’re going to be calling this name a lot over the next 30+ hours.

Pro tip: Try saying the name out loud a few times before confirming. Does it feel right when you imagine Atsu whispering it while stroking her horse’s mane after a tough battle? If yes, you’ve found the one.

Once confirmed, you’ll earn the “Naming a Friend” Bronze Trophy and officially have your new companion for the rest of your journey.

Can You Visit the Horses You Didn’t Choose?

Here’s a sweet detail that shows Sucker Punch’s attention to emotional storytelling: Yes, you can return to the Old Stables and visit the horses you didn’t select. You can even interact with them to see how they’re doing.

It’s a small touch, but it adds to the world-building. These aren’t just game assets—they’re living creatures in Atsu’s world, and the developers want you to care about them.

How to Summon Your Horse Anytime

Once you’ve bonded with your horse, calling it is simple: Press Left on the D-Pad to whistle. Your horse will spawn behind you, ready to ride.

Some Helpful Facts About Your Horse:

• It’s invincible – You can ride through dangerous terrain without worrying about its health
• No feeding required – Unlike some survival games, your horse doesn’t need maintenance
• Always available – As long as you’re not in a restricted area, your horse is just a whistle away

That said, just because your horse is immortal doesn’t mean you should be reckless. Treat your companion with respect—it’s what Atsu would do.

Why This Quest Matters Beyond Just Getting a Horse

The Old Trails quest is really about more than choosing a mount. It’s one of the game’s many threads exploring Atsu’s relationship with her family and her past. The flashbacks with her father and brother add layers to her character that make the entire journey more meaningful.

Ghost of Yotei builds on what made Ghost of Tsushima special—it’s not just about the combat and exploration, but about the emotional connections Atsu forms along the way. Your horse is part of that story.

For more background on the game’s historical and geographical setting, check out the Ghost of Yōtei Wikipedia page.

Choose With Your Heart

At the end of the day, there’s no “best” horse in Ghost of Yotei. Whether you stick with the white horse you started with or choose one of the alternatives, what matters is the bond you form with your companion.

Take the time to do the Old Trails quest—not just for the horse selection, but for the story it tells about Atsu’s childhood. And when you’re standing in that field, deciding which horse to name, remember: this is your journey through Hokkaido. Pick the horse that feels right for your Atsu.

Now get out there, whistle for your companion, and continue your adventure across one of gaming’s most beautiful open worlds. Your horse is waiting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Your Horse in Ghost of Yotei

Getting your perfect horse companion in Ghost of Yotei should be a memorable moment, but it’s easy to make mistakes that you’ll regret later. Here are the most common pitfalls players encounter—and how to avoid them.

1. Rushing the Decision Without Seeing All Three Horses Properly

The Mistake: Some players quickly select the first horse without really looking at all three options side by side. You might tap X in a hurry and realize two seconds later that the dappled horse was actually more your style.

Why It Matters: Remember, this is a permanent choice. There’s no “undo” button, no stable visit later where you can swap. Take your time. Walk around each horse. Look at them from different angles. See how they look in the lighting.

Pro Tip: Before making your selection, take a moment to imagine each horse in different environments you’ve already explored. Which one feels right for the snowy landscapes? The grasslands? The forests?

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2. Not Thinking Through the Name Before Confirming

The Mistake: Players get excited and pick the first name that pops into their head, only to cringe every time they call their horse for the next 30+ hours of gameplay.

Why It Matters: You’ll be summoning your horse constantly throughout the game. That name will appear on-screen repeatedly, and you’ll develop a genuine attachment to this companion. “Horsey McHorseface” might seem funny now, but will it still be funny after 20 hours?

Pro Tip: Say the name out loud a few times. Does it sound natural? Does it fit the tone of the game? Does it feel like something Atsu would actually name her horse? Take a minute to brainstorm 3-4 options before committing.

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3. Skipping or Rushing Through the Dialogue Sequences

The Mistake: Mashing through the conversations with Atsu’s brother or during the flashback sequences because you just want to get to the horse selection.

Why It Matters: You’re missing out on important character development and backstory about Atsu’s relationship with her family. These moments add emotional weight to the horse bonding—it’s not just picking a mount, it’s connecting to Atsu’s past.

Pro Tip: The Old Trails quest is relatively short (15-20 minutes), and the story beats are genuinely touching. Let yourself experience it. The horse choice will mean more when you understand the context.

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4. Forgetting This Is a One-Time Quest

The Mistake: Thinking “Oh, I’ll just pick any horse now and come back later to try the others or change my mind.”

Why It Matters: Once you complete the Old Trails quest and name your horse, that’s it. The quest is done. You can’t replay it, you can’t swap horses, and you can’t get a different one through any other means in the game.

Pro Tip: If you’re genuinely torn between two horses, take a break from the quest. Go do something else in the game for 10 minutes, then come back with fresh eyes. Sometimes stepping away helps you realize which option actually speaks to you.

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5. Not Knowing You Can Visit the Other Horses Later

The Mistake: Feeling intense FOMO (fear of missing out) about the horses you didn’t choose, not realizing you can still see them.

Why It Matters: While you can’t ride the other horses, you can return to the Old Stables anytime to visit them and interact with them. They’re not gone forever—they’re just living their best lives without you.

Pro Tip: If you’re the type who suffers from decision paralysis, knowing this might help you commit. You’re not abandoning the other horses; you’re just choosing your personal companion while ensuring the others are well cared for.

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6. Choosing Based on What You Think Is “Best” Rather Than What You Like

The Mistake: Scouring Reddit and forums asking “which horse is best” or “which horse do most players pick,” then choosing based on popularity rather than personal preference.

Why It Matters: All three horses have identical stats. There is no meta, no optimal choice, no speedrun-worthy selection. This is one of the rare game decisions where you truly should follow your heart, not a guide (ironic, I know, given you’re reading one).

Pro Tip: If 90% of players pick the black horse, but you love the white one? Pick the white one. Your playthrough is yours. The “best” horse is whichever one makes you smile when you whistle for it.

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7. Not Exploring the Old Stables Area Fully Before Leaving

The Mistake: Choosing your horse, getting the trophy, and immediately fast-traveling away without looking around.

Why It Matters: The Old Stables area has some environmental storytelling, collectibles, and atmosphere that’s worth experiencing. Plus, you might want to spend a few minutes with your newly-bonded companion before rushing back to the main story.

Pro Tip: After naming your horse, take it for a short ride around the area. Let the moment breathe. This is supposed to be a meaningful character beat, not a checkbox on your quest log.

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8. Panicking If You Accidentally Pick the Wrong Horse

The Mistake: Tapping the wrong button in a moment of controller fumble, then frantically looking for a way to undo it.

Reality Check: If this happens in the selection screen (before naming), you might be able to back out depending on the exact menu state. But once you’ve confirmed the name? You’re locked in.

Damage Control: If you genuinely picked the wrong horse by accident, you have two options:

1. Learn to love the horse you’ve got (many players grow attached despite initial regrets)
2. Start a new save file if you’re early enough in the game that it won’t cost you much progress

Prevention: Don’t make your selection when you’re tired, distracted, or in a rush. Give this moment the attention it deserves.

FAQ’s

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Have you chosen your horse yet? Which one did you pick and what did you name them? The choice says a lot about how you see Atsu’s character!