Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess Review

Introduction

In a world where new and innovative games are released regularly, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess stands out as a truly unique experience. This game combines action-strategy and tower defense elements in a mystical feudal Japan setting, offering players an engaging and fascinating gameplay experience.

A Captivating Story

Kunitsu-Gami tells its story without a single line of dialogue, immersing players in a world corrupted by defilement and the “Seethe” – a manifestation of demons, spirits, and yokai. As Soh, the guardian of Yoshiro, players must guide her safely down a treacherous mountain path to fulfill her duty of rescuing villages and their inhabitants. Along the way, players must also face powerful Seethe to secure stolen masks containing the power of the Goddess, enabling the assignment of villagers to different roles to aid in the journey.

Gameplay Overview

Each stage in Kunitsu-Gami is divided into Day and Night phases. During the Day, players collect crystals, purify defilement, rescue villagers, and create a Spirit Path for Yoshiro. In the Night phase, Seethe emerge from corrupted torii gates to wreak havoc, challenging players to protect Yoshiro with Soh’s sword and abilities. Strategic placement and role assignment of villagers saved during the day are crucial for defense and success.

The game introduces new mechanics regularly, ensuring that gameplay remains fresh and engaging. From repairing contraptions to defeating boss enemies, each stage offers unique challenges that require strategic thinking and adaptability.

Resource Management and Base Building

Kunitsu-Gami requires players to carefully manage resources, balancing the creation of Yoshiro’s Spirit Path and the allocation of villagers in different roles. Base building becomes essential for upgrades, repairs, and collecting rewards between stages. While initially a relaxing break in gameplay, the repetition of base management tasks can become tiresome over time.

Replayability and New Game+

The game offers significant replayability with hidden chests, side objectives, and a New Game+ option that retains progress and introduces new challenges and rewards. Skipping cutscenes and fast-forwarding through phases streamline replaying stages, making it less tedious despite some early stages becoming easier with increased strength.

Design and Art Direction

Capcom’s “kagura action-strategy” game captures the essence of Shinto ritual dances and mythology, incorporating authentic details and fantastical elements seamlessly. The meticulous attention to detail in character and environment design, along with a diverse yet cohesive color palette, creates a visually stunning experience that sets Kunitsu-Gami apart.