Ori and the Will of the Wisps Review (xxadonisxx)
Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a breathtaking masterpiece that elevates the metroidvania genre through its stunning visual artistry, emotionally charged narrative, and finely tuned gameplay mechanics. Developed by Moon Studios, this sequel to Ori and the Blind Forest expands on the original’s foundations, delivering a more expansive and immersive world that feels alive with wonder and danger. From the very first moments, players are drawn into a richly detailed fantasy landscape teeming with vibrant colors, fluid animations, and a hauntingly beautiful orchestral score that perfectly complements the game’s melancholic yet hopeful tone. The seamless blend of hand-painted backgrounds and dynamic lighting creates a living canvas where every environment—from lush forests to eerie caves—is meticulously crafted to evoke awe and emotional connection.
Gameplay in Will of the Wisps refines and deepens the series’ hallmark platforming and exploration, introducing new movement abilities, combat options, and a more open-ended skill tree system that allows players to tailor Ori’s progression to their preferred playstyle. The platforming feels precise and responsive, with carefully designed challenges that strike a perfect balance between accessibility and satisfying difficulty. Combat encounters are more varied and engaging than ever, requiring players to think strategically about timing, ability upgrades, and resource management. Additionally, the game’s save and checkpoint system is forgiving enough to encourage experimentation without removing the stakes that make each success rewarding.
Narratively, Will of the Wisps tells a poignant and beautifully woven story of loss, hope, and resilience. The game’s characters—silent yet expressive—communicate volumes through their design, animations, and environmental storytelling. Themes of friendship, sacrifice, and healing resonate deeply, supported by a narrative that unfolds naturally through exploration and subtle world-building rather than heavy-handed exposition. Emotional moments are heightened by the evocative soundtrack, which swells and softens in perfect harmony with the story’s beats, making the player’s journey feel profoundly personal.
One of the game’s most impressive feats is how it marries its technical achievements with emotional depth. The fluidity of movement and transitions between exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving create a sense of flow that few games can match. The world of Niwen feels vast yet intimate, inviting players to linger and discover its many secrets, hidden paths, and side quests that enrich the main storyline without ever feeling like filler. The seamless integration of upgrades and ability enhancements within the world encourages continuous discovery and rewards curiosity.
While Ori and the Will of the Wisps is nearly flawless, some players might find certain platforming sections challenging, especially those unaccustomed to precision-based gameplay. However, the game’s generous checkpoint system and adaptive difficulty options make these moments less frustrating and more satisfying to overcome. The only minor critique might be that the narrative’s subtlety requires patience and attentiveness, which could leave players seeking a more straightforward story feeling a bit adrift.
In conclusion, Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a triumphant sequel that surpasses expectations by blending exquisite art, compelling storytelling, and polished gameplay into an unforgettable experience. It stands as a shining example of what the metroidvania genre can achieve when creativity, technical skill, and heartfelt narrative come together. For anyone willing to embark on a journey through a magical, poignant world filled with wonder and challenge, Will of the Wisps offers an emotional and exhilarating adventure that lingers long after the credits roll.
Rating: 9/10