Ori and the Will of the Wisps Review

Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a game that defies expectations in the best possible way. The sequel to the 2015 puzzle platformer Ori and the Blind Forest, Will of the Wisps bests the original in terms of graphics and gameplay. Developed by Moon Studios, it’s a game that proves you can change the original formula and still surpass the expectations of the most ardent fans.

Absolutely Beautiful

It may seem shallow to start with the graphics. But make no mistake: the jaw-dropping art is the first thing players will notice about Ori and the Will of the Wisps.

The first game (Ori and the Blind Forest) was already a graphical masterpiece. But Will of the Wisps takes the painted quality of the original and turns every dial to “11.” That means more animations, more vivid levels, and an even more stunning color palette throughout the game.

Whether you want to prove that games can be art or just show off the HDR settings on your new TV, this is the showcase game you’ve been looking for.

A New Spin on a Classic Format

One of the big changes in this sequel has to do with Ori. Basically, he’s lost all his powers at the beginning of the game. Over the course of your adventure, you unlock new attacks and abilities that help open up the rest of the map.

Basically, this is a new spin on the classic Metroidvania format. And it makes this sequel even more addictive than the original. You’re going to spend plenty of time poring over the digital map and making sure that you haven’t missed any big secrets.

That sense of joyful exploration adds to the game’s replay value and also goes hand-in-hand with the childlike wonder of the narrative.