About Wisteria:
Wisps is a lovingly crafted sequel to Moon Studio’s beloved franchise with a single successful game prior that is 2015’s Ori and the Blind Forest. Suffice to say, Ori and the Will of the Wisp is a masterpiece and considered another classic to the Metroidvania genre, almost if the lead developer Thomas Mahler’s wish for it to be THE perfect Metroidvania game have been realized to almost full potential. It’s gameplay is a massive improvement from the first installation, with many inspirations and innovation really well-executed to create an action-packed, fast and fierce combat with a strikingly satisfying smooth flow to it. It’s joyous to be able to perform stunts such as damage grapple through an enemy, dashing and bashing another enemy against each other before giving them an explosive mid-air spear strike. It’s mechanics and abilities allow for a total change of playstyle to battle foes that are fun to fight against- though easier, there are merits for them being enjoyable rather than frustrating. The chase scenes are filled with adrenal-rush, companied by the beautiful soundtrack, oh, makes for an intense sequence. Gareth Coker’s style of composition and usage of immersive leitmotiff, ostinato, and ambience makes for immersive and tense tale to go along the crafted picturesque scenery that is Niwen. This game’s OST alone is a MUST for all the music enjoyers out there regardless of whether you play Ori or not. The stages and maps are clearly made with care, and are themed beautifully with fitting palettes and beautiful flora, and it is shown without a doubt. This entire game is an art piece to me. The story seemed to go the same way as many of the eye-watering stories do, I personally am not a fan of these cheesy hero’s journey themed plot with predictable outcome. However, I can confidently say that this game’s story is not one that’s filled with diary products. It will not disappoint you with masterfully written stories, dialogue, and twists that leave you crying. I thought that I have seen all the grievances within all the books I have on the walls, but the message of this story seemed to have hit a little too close to home.
