I have mixed feelings about platformers. As a speedrunner, I love time trials and precise gameplay. However, platformers often lack the thrill I seek. Nevertheless, I tried “Ori and the Blind Forest” for its stunning visuals and touching story. While not perfect, it has noteworthy moments.
Core Gameplay
“Ori and the Blind Forest” is a visually captivating action-platformer requiring precision, timing, and exploration. The controls are smooth and responsive, which is ideal for those who demand tight gameplay. However, the game can be unforgiving with its difficulty spikes. While this might appeal to hardcore fans, it could frustrate casual players.
Stunning Visuals
The hand-painted artwork and beautifully animated characters are breathtaking. Moon Studios created a world full of intricate details and vibrant colors, bringing life to the forest of Nibel. This aspect exceeds expectations, providing an immersive experience few games match.
Touching Narrative
The story is one of the game’s strengths. “Ori and the Blind Forest” tells a heart-wrenching tale about love, sacrifice, and hope. The emotional depth adds engagement beyond mere gameplay. The characters, especially Ori, are endearing and well-developed, making the player’s journey through the dying forest both heartbreaking and uplifting.
Best Parts
- Visual Masterpiece: The hand-painted art and animations create a vibrant, immersive world.
- Emotional Story: The narrative of love, sacrifice, and hope resonates deeply with players.
- Tight Controls: Smooth and responsive controls enhance the gameplay experience.
Worst Parts
- Difficulty Spikes: Sudden difficulty increases might frustrate casual players.
- Pacing Issues: Some parts feel slow, which might not appeal to those seeking fast-paced action.
Conclusion
“Ori and the Blind Forest” is a visual masterpiece with a heart-tugging story, offering a unique blend of beauty and challenge. For someone like me, who isn’t typically drawn to platformers, it offers a refreshing change of pace. However, it lacks the excitement of speed-focused games. Despite this, it’s worth exploring for its artistic achievements and emotional depth.
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
Final Thoughts
If you love visually stunning games with deep, emotional storylines, “Ori and the Blind Forest” is a must-play. Casual gamers or those preferring fast-paced action might find the difficulty spikes frustrating. Overall, it’s a well-crafted experience that platformer fans will appreciate, though it might fall short for those seeking high-speed adrenaline.
Gaming Tip for Beginners
Tip: Use save points often. The “Soul Link” ability lets you save your progress frequently, helping manage difficulty spikes and avoid repeating challenging sections.
