Ori and the Will of the Wisps Review: A Metroidvania Masterpiece

When Moon Studios released the sequel to their breakout hit, few expected them to elevate the platforming genre so significantly. Ori and the Will of the Wisps is not just a visual spectacle; it is a profound evolution of the Metroidvania formula that every action-platformer fan needs to play. This Ori and the Will of the Wisps review explores why this title remains a benchmark for artistic direction and fluid gameplay years after its release.

Understanding the shift from the original game to this sequel is essential for both returning players and newcomers. By refining combat systems and introducing more robust character customization, Moon Studios has transformed a linear journey into a deeply personal adventure through the woods of Niwen.

Evolution of Combat and Mechanics

The most striking change in this sequel is the overhaul of the combat system. In the original title, players were largely reliant on a spirit companion for damage, which felt somewhat passive. Ori and the Will of the Wisps brings the action to the forefront, allowing for direct melee and ranged engagement.

Players now have a customizable loadout, mapping abilities to face buttons. This shift invites experimentation, allowing you to tailor Ori’s combat style to suit your specific encounter needs. Whether you prefer the rapid strikes of the Spirit Edge or the heavy-hitting impact of the Spirit Smash, the game rewards active tactical decisions.

Mastery of Movement

Movement remains the heart of the Ori experience. The return of the "Bash" ability allows players to manipulate momentum, turning enemy projectiles and environmental hazards into tools for traversal. Community reports frequently highlight that mastering the Bash is the single most important skill for traversing the map efficiently and accessing secret areas.

Tip

Combat and Traversal Synergy Never view movement as separate from combat. Use your dash to close distance, bash off a projectile to gain altitude, and finish with a downward smash to keep your aerial combo going.

Customization Through Shards

The introduction of the "Shard" system serves as a direct upgrade to the ability trees seen in previous iterations. By finding or purchasing these shards, players can significantly alter their playstyle, from increasing damage output to enabling utility movements like wall-clinging.

However, the game forces a risk-reward calculation. For instance, equipping a shard that doubles your damage output often comes with a penalty, such as taking double damage yourself. This system makes character progression feel unique to your save file.

Recommended Shard Combinations

Based on player feedback and general consensus, here are some highly recommended setups:

• For Explorers: Magnet (orbs float to you) + Triple Jump (essential for precision).
• For Combat Focus: Spirit Surge + Glass Cannon shards (double damage, double vulnerability).
• For Survival: Life Efficiency + Resistance shards to mitigate incoming damage during boss fights.

World Design and Aesthetic Brilliance

Visually, the game is a masterclass in environmental storytelling. As noted by critics and official sources on Steam, the contrast between the murky, dangerous swamps and the vibrant, golden light of the Glades creates a world that feels alive.

The level design is inherently non-linear, encouraging you to return to previously inaccessible areas once you unlock new abilities. This "Metroidvania" loop is perfected here, as the movement feels so fluid that backtracking never feels like a chore.

Navigating Challenges and Bosses

The game is famous for its intense boss encounters and chase sequences. Unlike the first game, which occasionally relied on "trial and error" for its chase scenes, this sequel offers more visual cues to guide the player. Still, be prepared for a challenge.

Many players find that the boss battles require a mix of rhythm and resource management. Learning an enemy's attack pattern is often more rewarding than simply trying to brute force your way through with upgrades. If you find yourself struggling, try swapping your shards before the fight—often, a defensive build is more effective than an offensive one for first-time players.

Warning

Avoid Clipping Issues While the game is technically polished, some players have reported clipping issues when opening the map while moving quickly through large, open areas. To prevent this, ensure you are standing still when checking your progress to avoid potential crashes.

Community Experience and Engagement

One of the most engaging features is the integration of Spirit Trials. These are essentially time-trial races against the "ghosts" of other players online. It is a brilliant way to test your mastery of the movement mechanics without needing direct PvP combat.

Players also note that the NPC side quests—such as helping the Moki in the village—add a layer of emotional weight to the journey that makes the world feel worth saving. By participating in these quests, you don't just upgrade your village; you connect with the inhabitants of Niwen, making the final story beats hit significantly harder.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is Ori and the Will of the Wisps a direct sequel to The Blind Forest? A: Yes, it is a direct continuation of the story, though it is not strictly necessary to have played the first game to enjoy the emotional arc of this entry.

Q: Can I change my difficulty settings at any time? A: Yes, the game allows for difficulty adjustments, which is helpful if you find certain boss encounters or chase sequences particularly frustrating during your playthrough.

Q: What is the most important skill to master in the game? A: The "Bash" ability is widely considered the most important mechanic. Mastering Bash allows for superior movement, creative puzzle solving, and efficient combat control.

Q: Is there any reason to complete the Spirit Trials? A: Aside from the personal satisfaction of beating your own best time or climbing the leaderboards, Spirit Trials provide currency that can be used to purchase powerful upgrades and shard slots.