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Capcom, known for its diverse portfolio of games, has once again ventured into uncharted territory with Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess. This intriguing title, with its distinct Japanese folklore setting and innovative gameplay, has garnered considerable attention since its demo release. But does the full game live up to the hype? This review delves into the strengths and weaknesses of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, exploring its unique mechanics and captivating presentation.

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess

Strategic Depth and Freedom in Gameplay

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess features a compelling gameplay loop centered around preparation and defense, divided into day and night cycles. During the day, players scout the terrain, rescue villagers, and establish defenses before nightfall. These villagers act as your towers, offering various classes to counter the demonic Seethe. From frontline Swordsmen to distracting Sumo wrestlers and powerful Archers, strategic deployment is key, especially considering the limited number of villagers available.

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess

Some levels also feature defensive structures like barricades and watchtowers. Repairing these structures, while free, requires valuable time, forcing players to prioritize their actions. Managing resources to pave the way for Yoshiro, your mobile “castle,” is another crucial element. Her positioning is critical for the ensuing night defense.

As night falls, hordes of Seethe attack Yoshiro. This is where Soh, your warrior protector, comes into play. While his moveset is relatively basic, customizable skills add a tactical layer, allowing for armor-piercing attacks against bosses or support abilities for your troops.

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess

The game’s strength lies in the strategic freedom it offers. Players can direct troops to defend key points while weakening powerful enemies with Soh. This blend of action and strategy creates dynamic gameplay, demanding adaptability and quick thinking. The cycle continues until Yoshiro reaches the Torii gate for the purification ritual.

The difficulty curve is well-balanced, starting with introductory levels and gradually introducing new enemy types, challenges, and unit upgrades. The inclusion of boss battles keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging. The post-purification base-building aspect, however, feels less impactful, primarily serving as a resource management hub.

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess

A Feast for the Senses: Immersive Presentation

Beyond its strategic gameplay, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess boasts a captivating presentation. The game’s visuals and sound design evoke a strong sense of Japanese folklore, reminiscent of Capcom’s Okami. The rhythmic drumming, the elegant swordplay, and the grotesque yet fascinating Seethe designs all contribute to an immersive experience.

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess

The level design further enhances the presentation, creating memorable boss encounters. The Mukadejoro fight, for example, stands out with its oppressive darkness, punctuated by the rallying drums and the terrifying presence of the boss. While the combat itself might not appeal to everyone, the game’s visual and auditory elements are undoubtedly a highlight.

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess

Minor Gripes: Controller Layout and UI

Despite its strengths, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess has a few minor drawbacks. The controller layout, in particular, can feel unintuitive, requiring some time to adjust. Managing units and healing felt cumbersome, often requiring a pause to recall the correct button combinations. Similarly, the skill indicators could be more prominent, especially during intense combat.

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess

Conclusion

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess offers a unique and engaging blend of strategy and action, wrapped in a visually stunning package. While the controller layout could use some refinement, the game’s strategic depth, captivating presentation, and challenging gameplay make it a worthwhile experience for those seeking something different. If you’re looking for a game steeped in Japanese folklore with a fresh take on the strategy genre, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is definitely worth considering.