Wanderstop

Wanderstop is a cozy, narrative-driven game where you play as a fallen fighter named Alta, tasked with managing a tea shop in a whimsical forest. More than just brewing tea, you'll build relationships with quirky locals, uncover Alta's past, and navigate the emotional complexities of healing and finding peace. The game blends management elements with heartfelt storytelling, offering a relaxing and introspective experience I didn't expect.

• Short Sessions (20-45 minutes): Wanderstop is perfect for short, relaxing sessions. Brewing tea, chatting with customers, and tending to the tea shop can easily be done in bite-sized chunks. The game's gentle pacing and clear objectives make it easy to jump in and out without feeling overwhelmed. You can only progress the storyline but there is no winning in the game, which surprisingly is the best part about it.

• Fulfillment: Even in short sessions, Wanderstop provides a sense of calm and accomplishment. Building relationships with the charming characters and witnessing Alta's emotional growth are deeply rewarding. I immediately felt emphathy towards her and her journey. Players will find it hard not to get invested in the journey of the game and not the destination.

• Playability: The game's mechanics are simple and intuitive, making it easy to pick up and play. The focus is on narrative and character interactions, rather than complex gameplay systems. The art style is charming and whimsical, creating a visually appealing and relaxing experience.

• Time Commitment: While the overall story unfolds over time, Wanderstop is designed for flexible play. You can progress at your own pace, and short sessions are just as rewarding as longer ones. The game forces players to slow down and complete tasks around the shop without any time limits or the pressure to do things right the first time. This is the first 100% rated game we reviewed because of it's flexibility. The game adapts to your time, not the other way around.

Verdict:

Wanderstop may be the first cozy game, or any game for that matter, to make players feel like they just left an amazing therapeutic session. Players will find it easy to invest in the characters with diverse personalities and look forward to each one's story. The graphics are great and they did an amazing job choosing the right colors to make the environment feel connected to the storyline. This is a definite pickup for anyone with limited time, but want a fulfilling RPG. Wanderstop offers a cozy and fulfilling experience that will make players feel every emotion but in the end leaving them refreshed and at peace.