Do I Need to Play Ori in Order? A Guide to the Ori and the Blind Forest Series
Ori and the Will of the Wisps has captured the hearts of gamers worldwide with its stunning visuals, engaging storyline, and challenging platforming mechanics. However, for those unfamiliar with the series, wondering if they need to play Ori in order can be overwhelming. In this guide, we’ll delve into the world of Ori, exploring the connections between each game and providing valuable insight into whether playing the first game is necessary to appreciate the sequel.
Connected but Not Required
At its core, Ori and the Will of the Wisps is a standalone title, designed to be playable without prior knowledge of Ori and the Blind Forest (2015). While Moon Studios, the developers of the series, have expertly woven a narrative between the two games, key story elements are not compromised by playing the sequel exclusively.
Story Connections between the Games
To be sure, playing Ori and the Blind Forest first enriches the experience of exploring the world of Ori, especially for those invested in character development and narrative comprehension. The original game’s story sets the tone for the sequel, allowing players to appreciate the advancements in the protagonist’s emotional journey.
In particular, Ori and the Blind Forest introduce key characters, such as Naru and Ku**, which play significant roles in Ori and the Will of the Wisps. Conversely, the sequel expands upon the lore and world previously established, providing a unique narrative arc.
Breaking it Down: Key Game Features
To better grasp the connections between the two games, let’s look at some key features of each title:
| Features | Ori and the Blind Forest | Ori and the Will of the Wisps |
|---|---|---|
| Plot | Introduces Orignal protagonist, Naru, and the world’s mythology | Expands on the original story, including Ku’s character and Niu’s role |
| Game Mechanics | Focus on platforming, exploration, and combat | Adds new challenges, such as the dash ability and improved combat dynamics |
| World | Forestry, with a dense forest environment | Expansive world, featuring forest, tundra, and water environments |
Gaining the Most from Either Game
To maximize enjoyment, we recommend playing:
- Ori and the Blind Forest First: For those new to the series, playing Ori and the Blind Forest yields the most narrative depth. Character development and a comprehensive understanding of the game’s world are core to the experience.
- Ori and the Will of the Wisps Alone: For those solely interested in the sequel’s improvements and new features, Ori and the Will of the Wisps maintains a high level of immersion, with its engaging characters and expanded world.
In conclusion, while playing the original Ori and the Blind Forest enriches the understanding of the series, playing Ori and the Will of the Wisps alone is by no means a compromised experience. The games work as standalone titles, inviting players to explore the wonders of Ori’s world independently.
The Verdict
In summary, don’t feel obligated to play Ori and the Blind Forest to enjoy Ori and the Will of the Wisps. Both games exist as unique experiences, ready to captivate players alike. Whether you choose to embark on the journey together or separately, the adventures within the Ori series offer hours of captivating gameplay.
By understanding the connections and key features of each title, you’ll be poised to appreciate the Ori experience to its fullest extent.
Additional Tips:
- Save multiple times: Both games utilize autosave features, allowing for seamless progress. Secure your progress by saving in each game.
- Pay attention to environmental hints: Ori’s world provides subtle clues to guide progress, especially in the challenging boss battles.
- Master the dash ability: The dash mechanic, new in Ori and the Will of the Wisps, unlocks new paths and enemies to defeat.
Keep Exploring!
There’s no denying the sheer magnitude of Ori’s incredible worlds, characters, and mechanics. Whether you follow the series from start to finish or jump into its world anew, the game is sure to captivate.