Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, developed by Capcom and available now on current-gen systems, blends Japanese mythology with strategic action gameplay. The game sets players on a sacred mountain, Mt. Kafuku, where they must purify defiled lands and protect the Maiden, Yoshiro, from nightly invasions by the sinister Seethe. An intriguing concept, which we dove into on a PS5.
The premise of Kunitsu-Gami is rooted in traditional Japanese culture, with Kagura dances and ceremonial masks adding to the authenticity of the experience. The day-night cycle provides a rhythmic structure to the gameplay, requiring players to prepare during the day and defend against relentless enemies that come out at night. This cycle creates a sense of urgency and progression, effectively drawing players into its unique world and keeping them there.
Gameplay mechanics combine action and strategy, requiring players to manage villagers, allocate roles, and execute dance-like sword attacks with the protagonist, Soh. This fusion of elements makes for an engaging and dynamic combat experience, although if you’re used to button-mashing your way through you may find the strategic aspect of combat to be initially overwhelming. Balancing action and planning is key to surviving the onslaughts and purifying the Torii Gates though, and it’s a rewarding mix once you get it right.
The controls on the PS5 are responsive and intuitive, enhancing the fluidity of Soh’s movements in battle. However, there’s a degree of complexity to having to manage multiple elements simultaneously, which can sometimes lead to a steep learning curve that might frustrate relative newcomers to the genre.
Visually, Kunitsu-Gami excels with its diverse and detailed environments, bringing the mystical world of Mt. Kafuku to life. The art direction, which was heavily inspired by traditional Japanese aesthetics, is both beautiful and atmospheric. The audio complements the visuals perfectly, with a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack and sound effects that enrich the overall experience. The Kagura dance performances, in particular, are a highlight, adding a ceremonial depth and a degree of culture and history to the gameplay.
However, despite its many strengths, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess does have its shortcomings. The pacing of the story campaign can sometimes feel uneven, with the strategic elements occasionally disrupting the flow of the action. Additionally, the narrative, which we found very intriguing, might not appeal to everyone due to its deep roots in Japanese folklore and mythology, which may require a certain level of cultural appreciation to fully enjoy.
In conclusion, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess offers a unique and engaging experience that stands out with its blend of strategy and action, underpinned by rich cultural elements. It is a game that rewards patience and strategic thinking, making it a worthwhile journey for those willing to embrace its complexities. Fans of Japanese mythology and strategic action games will find much to appreciate in this beautiful blend of combat and culture.
Score: 7.8/10
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