The Stanley Parable creator Davey Wreden’s new game, Wanderstop, promises a relaxing experience with its tea-making mechanics and musings on fatigue and burnout. However, the game fails to deliver a cohesive narrative and witty humor, instead presenting a mixed bag of interactions with characters who feel more like caricatures than relatable individuals.
In Wanderstop, players control Alta, a warrior who has lost her mojo after pushing herself too hard. She starts managing a tea cafe to clear her mind, but the gameplay quickly becomes repetitive and unengaging. The game’s attempt at satire on the daily grind falls flat, with characters feeling more like one-dimensional archetypes than fully fleshed-out people.
The art in Wanderstop is admirable, with lush garden environments and whimsical details that invite contemplation. However, the writing lacks a clear tone, veering between witty humor and condescending philosophy. The game’s attempts at character development are similarly underwhelming, making it difficult to sympathize with Alta’s plight.
Despite its relaxing atmosphere, Wanderstop feels more like a therapy session than an engaging experience. Players are tasked with urging characters to open up, rather than guiding them towards individual enlightenment. Overall, Wanderstop is a mediocre game that fails to deliver on its promise of a soothing experience.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/11/arts/wanderstop-review.html