(Courtesy Sapporo)

Sapporo is celebrating PlayStation’s next big release with a limited-edition packaging that doubles as a gamer’s collectible. The iconic Japanese brewer has teamed up with Sucker Punch Productions to mark the upcoming launch of Ghost of Yōtei, a samurai-inspired action game hitting PlayStation 5 on October 2, 2025.

It’s a smart nod to Sapporo’s heritage, too. The brewery traces its roots back to Seibei Nakagawa, a Japanese brewmaster who studied in Germany before returning home to found Sapporo in 1876—guided, legend has it, by the North Star. Now, that same star shows up in a samurai epic set on Hokkaido, the very island where Sapporo’s story began.

Sapporo’s limited edition artwork features the game’s antagonists, the Yōtei Six, in the foreground of Hokkaido’s mountainous terrain. Katana swords that are similar to Sapporo’s well-known tap handle – are a central element of gameplay and prominently displayed on the beer package.

Beer and gaming are a perfect combination, but the synergy behind this partnership runs deeper,” explained Zach Keeling, Sapporo-Stone Brewing CEO. “Sapporo’s original brewmaster and the hero in Ghost of Yōtei both experience defiance, discovery and artistry to re-write their fates. These are inspirational stories that connect us to Japan and its remarkable history. We aim to share those stories and bring fans closer to Japan through this partnership.”

(Courtesy Sapporo)

Sapporo and Ghost of Yōtei seek to forge connections to Hokkaido, the Northern edge of Japan and home to the birthplace of Sapporo beer. Sapporo is the oldest beer brand of Japan and the #1 selling Asian import in the US

“Hokkaido’s natural beauty made it the ideal setting to tell Atsu’s tale in Ghost of Yōtei Brian Fleming, Sucker Punch Productions’ Co-Founder & Studio Head, added. “During our visits to Japan, our teams enjoyed a few refreshing pints of Sapporo, so we’re very excited for the opportunity to partner with this iconic Hokkaido-based company to help us launch Ghost of Yōtei in style.”

The new packaging drops nationwide this month, with sleek cans and bottles featuring artwork from the game. But it’s more than just spectacular artwork —you’ll also find a QR code on each package that unlocks an exclusive in-game bonus called the “Charm of Hokkyokusei. True to Sapporo’s star logo, the “North Star” charm gives players a small chance of firing off arrows or kunai without losing any ammo.

And for fans looking to score something more than bragging rights, the promotion also includes a sweepstakes. Just scan, sign up, and you’ll be entered for a chance to win a Ghost of Yōtei Collector’s Edition—complete with gamer collectibles, digital extras, and of course, the full PS5 game.

The catch? You’ve got to be 21 or older and based in the US to take part. The sweepstakes runs through March 31, 2026, while the bonus codes stay valid until the end of 2026.

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