Ori and the Will of the Wisps is the critically acclaimed sequel that expands upon everything that made the original Ori and the Blind Forest a beloved classic. Developed by Moon Studios and winner of the Steam Award for Outstanding Visual Style, this action-platformer weaves precision gameplay with deeply emotional storytelling across a stunning hand-painted world.
An Emotional Journey Through a Broken Land
The story begins when a fateful flight puts the young owlet Ku in danger, separating Ori from family and thrusting them into a vast, unfamiliar world. What unfolds is a tale of courage, sacrifice, and discovery that touches on themes of loss, healing, and finding one's true purpose. Moon Studios has crafted a narrative that resonates long after the credits roll, earning praise from critics who called it "an exhilarating, emotional masterpiece" that elevates the genre.
Refined Metroidvania Exploration
The world of Niwen is expansive and interconnected, rewarding curiosity at every turn. New movement abilities unlock previously unreachable areas, creating that signature sense of progression that defines the best Metroidvania experiences. Each region presents its own atmosphere and challenges, from lush forests to haunting ruins, populated by memorable characters who need your help as much as you need theirs.
Combat and Abilities Evolved
- Spirit Edge and Ranged Attacks
- Unlike the original game's limited combat options, Will of the Wisps introduces a full melee system with the Spirit Edge sword, along with ranged abilities like Spirit Arc. Players can customize their loadout to match their preferred playstyle, whether that means aggressive close-quarters combat or careful, calculated strikes from a distance.
- Spirit Shards System
- Collectible Spirit Shards allow you to modify Ori's abilities in meaningful ways. Increase damage output, enhance mobility, or improve survivability by equipping shards that complement how you approach each encounter. This system adds genuine depth to character progression beyond simple upgrades.
A Visual and Audio Masterpiece
Every frame of Ori and the Will of the Wisps looks like living concept art. The hand-painted environments shift from warm, inviting glades to dark, foreboding depths, each location crafted with remarkable attention to detail. Accompanying this visual splendor is a fully orchestrated score that swells with the action and quiets for moments of tenderness, creating an atmosphere that few games achieve.
Challenging Yet Accessible
Platforming sequences demand precision timing and quick reflexes, while combat encounters test your mastery of Ori's growing arsenal. The difficulty curve is carefully tuned, introducing new mechanics steadily and providing enough challenge to satisfy experienced players without becoming punishing. For those seeking greater tests, optional areas and hidden challenges await discovery.
Step into a world where beauty and heartbreak exist side by side, where every leap feels purposeful and every victory is earned. Ori's journey through Niwen awaits, and it's one you won't want to miss.
