Ori and the Will of the Wisps

 Xbox Series X
User Score
8.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 159 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 140 out of 159
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 159
  3. Negative: 13 out of 159

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  1. Unbiasedgamer23
    Aug 23, 2021
    9
    Very beautiful game that was treated with care and love. Playing this on my OLED TV was truly magnificent and I loved this game.
  2. cyklopPL
    Nov 27, 2020
    8
    works great on Series X, either 4K120FPS or 6K60FPS.

    The game itself is beautiful and a must play.
    Magical story and a great metroidlike game.

    For me (I am a noob) It was really challenging on Normal difficulty, however not impossible to complete. Beware, there will be frustrating parts :)

    Highly recommended
  3. Ight
    Nov 18, 2020
    10
    4k at 120 fps on one of the best platformers, and the most beautiful art style I've seen out there, what else is there to be said this game is perfect
  4. Pablocortesi
    Nov 24, 2020
    10
    Juego espectacular y hermoso, digno de ser lo mejor de este 2020, lamentablemente no esta nominado a juego de año debido a que todo gira en torno al populismo, juegos que no merecen ser goty están nominados, pero bueno, la gente sabe que ori era candidato seguro y bien merecido. Esperando ya una tercera entrega., de lo mejor de xbox.
  5. Josh_Sinclair
    Nov 18, 2020
    10
    The best art style in any platformer on the market. I highly recommend, especially if you own a HDR screen to experience the beautiful colours and world the developers have created.
  6. tom974
    Jan 24, 2022
    10
    Better than the (already excellent) first opus. I just can't find any cons. Incredible musics, artistic direction, graphics, story. The gameplay is dynamic and precise. A must play for any metroidvania amateur.
  7. Dolphin93
    Dec 24, 2020
    10
    Stunning 6k mode with Locked 60fps..great gameplay, really enjoyed this game.
  8. samurai07
    Dec 2, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It is very very very beautiful and wonderful and its appearance is amazing and the music enters you in its sad world I wish all people who try it will never regret it… Expand
  9. skealton
    Nov 16, 2020
    10
    Buttery smooth 4K 120FPS (on my LG C9 OLED) to an already beautiful (incredible art style and animation) and compelling game. If you never tried it and you're into metrovania worshipping. this is the best in class so not only on xbox but for all gaming platform. And it should definitely sit on top of your altar.
  10. Solid9312
    Nov 26, 2020
    10
    Love this game
    Is beautiful and difficult the picture is good and the mobility is estable
  11. MYankee
    Dec 23, 2020
    9
    Loved the game. Beautiful backgrounds, wonderful character designs and a very engaging story line.
  12. Not_A_Shill
    Dec 31, 2020
    10
    Hello, I'm absolutly not a paid corporate shill and this is my unbiased Review for ORI AND THE WILL OF THE WISPS

    ORI AND THE WILL OF THE WISPS is a masterpiece of video game narrative. Nothing else even comes close. The story is brutal, challenging, bold, and almost never "fun". It is harrowing, forcing the player to confront violence in a way video games never do. In a medium where    Hello, I'm absolutly not a paid corporate shill and this is my unbiased Review for ORI AND THE WILL OF THE WISPS

    ORI AND THE WILL OF THE WISPS is a masterpiece of video game narrative. Nothing else even comes close. The story is brutal, challenging, bold, and almost never "fun". It is harrowing, forcing the player to confront violence in a way video games never do. In a medium where everything is John Wick, ORI AND THE WILL OF THE WISPS is Schindler's List. And just like that film, there were times when I wasn't sure I could keep going. It is a relentless emotional assault that I suspect will force even the most jaded gamer to feel empathy. The game is a work of art - every aspect feels crafted at the highest level. Visuals, audio, controls, animation, level design, performance. It is astounding. And frequently beautiful. With moments you NEVER find in video games. But I cannot overstate how harrowing it is. It feels like 2 seasons of the darkest TV show you'll ever find, and it frequently better than most TV on the air. That's saying a lot. I think it is an IMPORTANT game. It tore me up, and I will never, ever forget ORI AND THE WILL OF THE WISPS is a game that will change you. In short, ORI AND THE WILL OF THE WISPS put me through hell. I did not enjoy it. I wasn't supposed to. I was affected by it. Like no game before. I am in awe of it. I am recovering from it.    … Expand
  13. Cristrew
    Mar 23, 2021
    10
    Esto es un juego puro obra maestra se puede decir jugabilidad de diez como hacer una segunda parte superando en todo al primero
  14. Freestrak
    Mar 23, 2021
    10
    Así es como se debe hacer una secuela puliendo todo que banda sonora de 10
  15. NeilAlexander
    Feb 3, 2021
    10
    And Moon Studios does it again! This was one of the best games of 2020 and I would recommend it to anybody. From the art-style to the soundtrack, everything hits home in this game. If you have Xbox Gamepass, pick this game up please. One of the most underrated games of 2020
  16. KusaMH
    Feb 8, 2021
    10
    El mejor metroidvania que te puedas hechar a la cara! Excelente en todos los apartados. Un trabajo que consagra a Moon studios
  17. GyGergo24
    Jul 25, 2021
    10
    Just finished…amazing journey. Both Ori games now on my all-time top 3 list besides RDR 2 and LoU 2. Many respects to Moon studios and Microsoft. Thank you guys!
  18. Polito
    Mar 27, 2023
    10
    This game is so beautiful! Relaxing game with awesome music, nice story... everything is fantastic on this game! A must play, in my opinion!
  19. Hechss
    Jan 16, 2021
    10
    Magnificient sountrack, smooth and varied gameplay, breathtaking art and an emotional story: this game has it all.
  20. nbt98001
    Jan 30, 2021
    9
    Played this game with my 5 yr old son. We both enjoyed it very much. Beautiful graphics, solid game play and story. I recommend it to anyone who likes platform games.
  21. Voodoo123
    Dec 24, 2022
    10
    +Incredible 2d artwork
    +Engaging story and characters
    +Fantastic gameplay and controls
    +Superb map and creature design
    +Impressive array of visual options 4k/120fps etc
    -sad to hear about the poor developer work conditions

    This game was superb
  22. truenorman
    Mar 24, 2022
    10
    Tras haber jugado a la mayoría de los metroidvania del mercado opino que este es el mejor de todos. Gráficos preciosistas, control perfecto, muy buen desarrollo de personaje, gran diseño de niveles, banda sonora sublime...
  23. madoblado
    Jan 3, 2021
    10
    Precioso, fantástico, maravilloso, genial historia y gráficos espectaculares con una música colosal. Uno de los mejores juegos exclusivos recientes de la consola de Microsoft.
  24. Bure1088
    Aug 11, 2022
    10
    Awesome gameplay/platforming but very sad story though. This is a must play imo
  25. CRunkazChris
    Feb 12, 2021
    10
    Spent hours playing this game soundtrack and gameplay are an big win for this game. Plus playing it at 120 fps omg. I love it
  26. Skurttish
    Jan 19, 2021
    6
    My score for the masochistic gamer who loves crazy hard challenges: 10.
    My score for the average gamer: 6.
    First off, the level design is really creative, the skills are incredible and a delight to use, the story is good enough, the visuals are superb, and the soundtrack is absolutely one of the best I’ve ever heard, if not The Best. But gameplay is the most important element, and    My score for the masochistic gamer who loves crazy hard challenges: 10.
    My score for the average gamer: 6.

    First off, the level design is really creative, the skills are incredible and a delight to use, the story is good enough, the visuals are superb, and the soundtrack is absolutely one of the best I’ve ever heard, if not The Best.

    But gameplay is the most important element, and the game is just too hard. I can’t tell you how many times this one brought out the ‘oof’ of “I have to do all that AGAIN?” Especially the escape sequences and one particular boss at the end of Mouldwood Depths just brought groan after groan of frustration from me.

    Mouldwood Depths as a whole was not well designed, in my opinion. Because it is a darkness-based level, there needed to be a better way to get around without so many trial-and-error blind jumps. As it is now, it is an exercise in frustration, and if you have a decent backlog (like everyone who has Game Pass probably does), there comes a point where you just start to rue the time you spent.

    But, again, a gorgeous game. I just wish it were more forgiving.    … Expand
  27. Zsizse
    Jan 23, 2021
    10
    This game is just perfect, the art style, the gameplay and the story is too good. I have no more words, this is my favorite game all of the time
  28. AliB2020
    Jan 20, 2021
    9
    Truly a masterpiece. Beautiful story. Wonderful music. A must play game. Excellent visual art
  29. mlann
    Jan 28, 2021
    10
    STUNNING game with incredible music and gameplay. such a step up from the first game which was also absolutely breathtaking
  30. Prime16
    Jan 28, 2021
    9
    Probably the best platformer I’ve seen in years....not a game I’d usually play. I was pleasantly surprised, the score is amazing and the story is actually really good as well. A truly beautiful game
  31. BWT
    Aug 21, 2021
    9
    One of the best games I ever played. Maybe wouldn't mind a little bit more story, but what's there is enough and last levels are a bit too dark. Still a masterpiece.
  32. Woua
    Jun 18, 2021
    10
    Ori is a must play on game pass best use of hdr i’ve seen in a game i really enjoyed it it’s impressive
  33. Dageterekite
    Sep 5, 2021
    10
    One of the best games ever!
    I loved every single minute of it. Everything is perfect for me in this games.
  34. aandrade81
    Nov 13, 2021
    10
    Esse jogo é uma joia lapidada em forma de metroidvania, eu nunca pensei que um dia fosse gostar tanto de um jogo de plataforma... ele é magnífico
  35. cremdelacrem8
    May 30, 2022
    10
    Incredible experience. The soundtrack, art, and gameplay are top notch. Would recommend this to anyone who can appreciate games like this.
  36. Sab1nX
    Nov 8, 2022
    10
    How did 12 hours pass? I have no clue! I'm not especially big on platformers, but with such fun gameplay and a wholesome heartfelt story, the Ori games are perfect!
  37. Mastereed
    May 17, 2023
    9
    IMMORTAL OAK

    INTRODUCTION: Ori and the Will of the Wisps was developed by Moon Studios and released in March 2020. As the sequel to Ori and the Blind Forest, it boasts improvements in all aspects, both technically and creatively, enhancing the beauty of an already excellent title. The game has been fully completed at 100%. FIRST STEPS: The introduction of Ori and the Will of the    IMMORTAL OAK

    INTRODUCTION:
    Ori and the Will of the Wisps was developed by Moon Studios and released in March 2020. As the sequel to Ori and the Blind Forest, it boasts improvements in all aspects, both technically and creatively, enhancing the beauty of an already excellent title. The game has been fully completed at 100%.

    FIRST STEPS:
    The introduction of Ori and the Will of the Wisps consists of short playable sequences interspersed with scenes illustrating the growth of Ori and Ku, the young owl born after the events of the first chapter. These scenes provide information about the characters of Ori and Ku for those who haven't played the first game and showcase their development for those who have. Moreover, the small movement phases give players a taste of what the gameplay will be like throughout the game. Once the introductory sequence is completed, the player finds themselves alone, fighting the corruption that afflicts the forest of Niwen, and a good set of skills is essential to survive and progress in the story. Finally, during the save creation, players can select the difficulty level, which is divided into three stages, with pretty huge gaps.

    ESCAPING FROM "THINGS":
    The gameplay of Ori and the Will of the Wisps is that of a pure Metroidvania, a genre based on the progression of the game map through power-ups found at different points in the story. This ensures that players have several hours of exploration to overcome previously inaccessible paths. Additionally, the gameplay is fast-paced and frenetic thanks to various obtainable dashes. Like the first game, there will be various power-ups, with at least one in each game area, allowing players to explore hidden portions of the map. However, this second installment adds several complexities not present in the first one, incorporating more distinct RPG elements. Players can equip up to 3 usable abilities with different effects, both for combat and exploration. These abilities can be freely swapped at any time without cost, and the game freezes to simplify this exchange. There are also several equipable perks available from the pause menu, which provide effective buffs to Ori's combat skills or sustenance. Passive upgrades that unlock through game progression are also present. A hub with various interactable NPCs has been introduced, useful for purchasing and upgrading the aforementioned abilities. It is also designed to accommodate different secondary quests that provide in-game currency, damage and sustenance upgrades, as well as further development of the game's storyline. One of the most appreciated mechanics from the first game, the enemy chase scenes, has been multiplied and greatly improved, adding exciting variety to the gameplay. Finally, true bosses with unique mechanics and designs have been added.

    THE RADIANCE:
    The most impressive and carefully crafted aspect of this game is undoubtedly its graphics and the aesthetics of its game world. Every detail, be it animations, backgrounds, cutscenes, or enemies, is meticulously designed. In each game environment, players can pause to admire the background and discover an infinite number of details. The use of colors to evoke certain sensations is carefully crafted, with darker and gloomier areas adorned with vibrant colors to provide a sense of tranquility for players, and tranquil areas where formidable enemies lurk, easily predictable thanks to the game map's design. The menus themselves reveal the passion with which this game was developed, with drawings and illustrations that update during gameplay in response to encountered events. The addition of three-dimensional cutscenes further showcases the studio's skill in pushing their boundaries, bringing to life an astonishing title like this.

    THE CALL OF THE FOREST:
    The soundtrack of this game is impressive and surpasses that of its predecessor, incorporating different styles and evolving the ones already used. The attention to sound effects perfectly complements what has been described for the aesthetic aspect.

    BUT WHY A 9?

    PROS:
    The merits of this game are so numerous that they are indescribable in such few characters. This is one of those reasons to purchase a console, as it was exclusive for years. It is an almost flawless title that reaches aesthetic levels capable of setting a very high bar in the 2D platforming landscape.

    CONS:
    The drawbacks are extremely limited. They could be the limited number of different enemies or the potential bugs that can be encountered. The lack of a true endgame area, present in the first game, can also be considered a con. Additionally, the inspiration from Hollow Knight could be seen as a downside since various features, such as the amulets, are clearly influenced. Lastly, due to the game's frenetic pace, combat can often become chaotic and it is easy to take damage without realizing it.

    RATING:
    Gameplay: 9,5
    Music: 9,5
    Story: 8,5
    Exploration: 9,5
    _    … Expand
  38. Luka0306
    Aug 28, 2023
    10
    One of the best game i've ever played, the gameplay is absolutely perfect and the story too.
    A must have!

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
92

Universal acclaim - based on 5 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 5
  3. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. Cubed3
    Jul 29, 2021
    90
    The Xbox brand has taken great strides in diversifying its portfolio of first party offerings, and Ori and the Will of the Wisps is quite literally genre-defining. Slightly more linear in nature than its predecessor, Will of the Wisps still manages to make exploration feel fresh and traversal fluid. Stunning graphics, a wholesome and immersive soundtrack, tight controls and fun varied combat truly make Ori and the Will of the Wisps a must-own for Xbox Series X|S owners.
    Read full review
  2. GameSpot
    Nov 17, 2020
    90
    Will of the Wisps was always an impressive visual showpiece, despite the technical flaws that initially held it back. It's more straightforward, combat-heavy flow may still put off die-hard fans of the original Ori, but there's that's a small nitpick for a game that retains its identity while finding a new flow. Most importantly for the Series X and S upgrades, next-gen hardware turns one of Will of the Wisps' original weaknesses into a point of pride, and that's worth celebrating.
    Read full review
  3. Press Start Australia
    Nov 11, 2020
    90
    On the Xbox One X, late-game save files for Ori would tend to boot in at around ten seconds which, granted, isn’t even that bad in retrospect. Despite this, Series X still bests those times significantly, bringing it down to only about five seconds. It’s an undoubted improvement across the board, as the game’s now far more optimised than it was at launch. If you’ve managed to avoid Ori and the Will of the Wisps up until this point, I absolutely implore you to take a chance on one of the year’s most beautiful platforming games. Now even prettier and more stable, it’s sure to light a fire in your heart.
    Read full review
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