After revealing a demo of its game at the Summer Game Fest, Capcom is back with a preview session, which we were able to take part in. Kunitsu-Gami : Path of the Goddess was then revealed in detail during the two hours we were able to get our hands on the controller. The title, which is part of the trend for games with a Japanese universe, approaches Japanese culture with original gameplay. But does difference always pay off?
Contrary to what one might have thought, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is what we can call a real-time strategy and action gamewhich immerses players in a rich and mystical universe. The story takes place around the sacred mountain Kafuku, a once peaceful land now plagued by a mysterious plant corruption. This corruption imprisons the villagers and transforms the valley into a battlefield where day and night bring different challenges. Players must liberate these villageseach representing a unique level of the game, and restore balance using strategy and physical strength.
To do this, you take on the role of protector, guiding a miko (priestess) in her quest to purify the lands. During the day, you free villagers and collect resources, while at night, strange monsters emerge from mystical gates. These creatures only appear at night, adding a strategic dimension where time and resources must be managed precisely to ensure survival and progression.
A captivating visual identity
Visually, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is breathtaking. Capcom demonstrates once again his mastery of creating immersive worlds and fascinating creaturesbordering on “disturbing”. Each object and setting is meticulously designed, punctuated with details that capture the essence of Japanese folklore. The landscapes are colorful, and the lighting effects create an atmosphere that is both serene and disturbing, depending on the time of day.
The monsters, the central elements of the night, are impressively creative. Capcom has designed creatures that are both beautiful and terrifying. Each encounter with these entities is a unique visual experience, where players can admire while preparing to fight. As beautiful as they are, these monsters are not here to joke around. The fluid animations and special effects add an extra layer of depth, making each battle very immersive.
Gameplay between strategy and action
The gameplay of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess combines real-time strategy with dynamic action elements. Each level offers unique challenges that players must overcome to progress. The day/night cycle plays a crucial role in strategy. You have to know how to place your defense, assign roles to each character that will influence their in-game behavior, but also know how to take the enemy head-on to protect the miko.
Real-time combat is intense, requiring precise resource management and strategic ally placement. Players must be astute to optimize every move and attack, especially on a day when time management is more difficult than you might think. The miko performs a dance to reach the door and purify it, but it takes time.
It is possible to speed it upbut beware of anyone who does not take into account the location of the miko once night falls. This simple element can upset an entire strategy, and make you review your plans regarding the allocation of professions to your villagers, at the risk of your resources. The progression of the difficulty is well measured, each level becoming progressively more complex, which maintains the interest and the challenge for the players.
Daytime base management adds an extra dimension to the gameplay. Once a village is liberated, it becomes a base where infrastructure can be repaired, equipment upgraded, and rewards collected. This part of the game encourages players to go back, optimize their strategies, and perfect their techniques. Challenges can be completed, which promotes replayability, although it is not infinite given the repetitive nature of the game.
A good first impression
During our two-hour preview session, we were able to appreciate the depth and richness of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess across 3 different levels. The time frame is balanced, each phase bringing its share of challenges and satisfactions. The strategy needed to manage resources and villagers, combined with the intense action of nighttime combat, creates a captivating, almost addictive gameplay loop.
The only potential downside could be a certain repetitiveness. It may not suit all players, who may also get tired of such linear gameplay. But each level introduces subtleties that we think keep the game fresh and engaging. The title will be released next July 19th on consoles and PC.
To not miss any news on the Journal du Geek, subscribe on Google News. And if you love us, we have a newsletter every morning.
