Geekscape Games Reviews: ‘Ori and the Blind Forest’

For those of who have had Ori and the Blind Forest flying under your radar, you are definitely doing yourself a disservice. Developed by Moon Studios, Ori and the Blind Forest tells the tale of an unlikely hero destined to combat fierce creatures in an attempt save the forest of Nibel. The game itself looks stunning and is easily one of the most artistic titles you’ll find on console. Don’t believe me?

After booting up the title, I was immediately drawn to the music. This attraction only grew as the game went on. It’s safe to say that Moon Studios has done an excellent job at coupling some of the game’s most heartfelt music with the images being portrayed on screen. For example, I can pretty much guarantee you will notice the game’s score at the main menu. It’s rhythm and melody matches the game’s world to such a degree where I cannot imagine one without the other.

And while we’re on the subject, let me offer some advice: Ori and the Blind Forest‘s prologue is not for the faint of heart. With careful use of composition and and color, Moon Studios manages to pull off what few games can do throughout their entire story, which is the ability to convey emotion. Trust me, play through the prologue of the game and you’ll want to see this character out till the end.

One of the favorite things about this game is the art style. While that may come off a little cliché, I must say that fluidity of the world is impressive. Everything from the blades of grass to falling leaves fills the world with life. All of this adds to one overarching story with multiple characters who serve the story in way that makes it easier for gamers to understand.

The game’s story is told through narration and action, which often supplements the narration. Luckily for us, the narration is always brief and subtitled. Still, you must pay attention to each snippet of information to have a full understanding of the game’s narrative and characters. Falling behind can be easy if you’re not focused. In this way, Ori and the Blind Forest isn’t a game you boot up when you’re looking to kill time. It’s clear the developers and storytellers demand your full attention and are keen on rewarding you for doing so. While there are elements of exploration, each piece of the world feels necessary.

I admit, I was unsure how much I would like Ori and the Blind Forest‘s gameplay. Having had my nose in the books for the last three years due to school, I was only able to get away to play FPS’ or sports games. Regardless, Ori and the Blind Forest is easy to pick up. I must say that a lot of the puzzles were completed through trial and error, though, the repetition in doing this did not bore me either like other games.

For those of you who have never played a game like Ori and the Blind Forest, another game on the Xbox One I can relate it to is Max: The Curse of Brotherhood. This title was free a while back for Xbox Live Gold members and shares much of the same elements of exploration and problem solving. What separates Ori and the Blind Forest from Max is its replayability and the repetitive nature. Anyone who did not enjoy Max: The Curse of Brotherhood will find solace in the fact that Ori and the Blind Forest will keep you interested as it’s lively art style should keep you from getting bored.

Overall, I would say Ori and the Blind Forest is a solid purchase. The game is single player, but offers a good amount of playtime. Leveling up and choosing what abilities to master will keep the game fresh upon multiple playthroughs and should be subject to debates among friends. If you’re looking for a game with story and a unique art style, Ori and the Blind Forest is your game. Just be aware, the prologue is just as good as Up as far as tugging at your heart strings goes.