Wanderstop

Wanderstop is a game that is simply worth it. May you be a lover of tranquility or someone who wants to die whenever you see all those "farm games" in a Nintendo Direct or some such, Alta's and Boro's teahouse is a must-play stop. Who knows if maybe you, just like the protagonist, end up learning something about yourself?

Wanderstop captivates with its masterfully written dialogues, which, beneath their absurdity, reveal common struggles that everyone can relate to. The excellent storytelling is complemented by a relaxing soundtrack and stunning visuals. When indie scene stars come together, something truly special is born.

Wanderstop admittedly won’t be for every player. Obtuse, experimental games rarely are. Even its “cozy” moniker belies a genuine lack of requirements Ivy Road imposes. But threaded through this simple game about making tea is a powerful, poignant narrative that dwells on a person’s ability to come to terms with the futility of constant forward momentum. Grace and warmth can be found in the doldrums of existence. And in this chaotic age, we often need a break not only from the noise but ourselves.

It’s important not to let the mild criticisms get in the way, as Wanderstop is a beautiful title with something to say about overwork, determination and letting go. It explores these potentially depressing topics with a ton of humor and relaxing gameplay, resulting in a thoughtful, unique title that doesn’t overstay its welcome. Stepping away from the game, I have fond memories of the characters Alta meets, particularly Boro, Gerald and Monster. It’s a chill time that wants the player to spend as much or as little with it as they would like, while also being deep but unpretentious.

Wanderstop won't win any awards for its deliberately thin gameplay mechanics, but over its 10-15 hours you'll be reminded how a simple act of kindness can change lives and that just slowing things down and taking time for yourself away from the stresses and white noise of daily life is perhaps just what the doctor ordered.

Wanderstop remains incredibly sincere and thoughtful with its biting story cooked up by Ivy Road without being overly sentimental or too delicate. Not afraid to show its teeth (including occasional gameplay obstacles), within is a stellar story about learning self-care and slowing down, a refreshing narrative departure for Davey Wreden in particular, bolstered by the co-writing of Karla Zimonja and moving performance by Kimberley Woods. Present also is a vibrant, whimsical and pragmatic take on the familiar shop-running and farming hybrid genre, told all through the lens of helping out a quaint tea shop with thoughtful and bespoke mechanics and interactivity. It’s dangerous to go alone. Why don’t you stay a while and have a nice cup of Earl Grey?

Wanderstop is a lesson in stopping to smell the roses and how important it is to look inwards when faced with life's difficulties. Its mixture of lighthearted humour and tranquil themes will leave any player feeling more relaxed after each gaming session.

Wanderstop is beautiful, difficult, easy-going and complicated. It’s a showcase for what games are capable of on an emotional level, and a heartfelt indie ode to finding yourself when everything looks lost.

Understated, heartfelt and relaxing; Wanderstop may be a little simple for those looking for a "cosy sim". However, for those looking for thoughtful writing, a laser focus on being laid back and a demand to play it on your terms, it doesn't get much enveloping and cosy as this.

With its mixture of serious story and relaxed gameplay, Wanderstop shows how important it is to shift down a gear sometimes.

As a 'cozy game,' Wanderstop has little to offer: it's simple, shallow, and gives you little to work toward. But that’s exactly the point. Wanderstop forces both you and the burnout-recovering Alta to slow down and reflect on yourself and the life you lead. That may not sound very cozy and might even seem depressing. Yet, well-written characters and Wreden’s signature humor add a cheerful touch.

It's a clever mix of genre and story, because it provides a cosy space to immerse yourself in while also highlighting the reasons why people play things like this in the first place — to unwind, to take a break with something relaxing. Alta is forced to slow down and reflect on her issues, and through conversations and moments of introspection, the game delivers a thoughtful, emotive tale that may well hit home for many.

Wanderstop sets out to deliver a relaxing narrative experience - and absolutely nails it. Needless to say, it's the barista life for us in Wanderstop.