Available on the PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, Wanderstop is the latest title I’ve been eagerly anticipating. The game, intriguingly described on its Steam page as centered around “change and tea,” piqued my interest for several reasons. One of the key factors is that it’s the debut offering from Ivy Road, a studio established by Davey Wreden. Wreden is known for crafting unique gaming experiences with his past works like The Stanley Parable and The Beginner’s Guide, both of which are renowned for their originality. At a glance, the trailers give off the vibe of a typical “cozy game,” where you leisurely enjoy the serene ambiance while managing a tea shop. But knowing Wreden’s style, I’m expecting Wanderstop to be more than it seems—perhaps it’s poised to surprise us with unexpected twists, and I’m definitely up for that kind of experience.
Another aspect that heightens my anticipation is the broad spectrum of critiques it’s garnered—ranging from modest approvals to enthusiastic accolades. Although I haven’t delved into any of these reviews myself to preserve an unbiased experience, the variety of opinions suggests that there’s something noteworthy about this game. I’ve long believed that the gaming industry benefits from a diversity of critical perspectives, but given the tendency in mainstream game criticism to default to a consensus, encountering a game that stirs such a varied response is refreshing and indicates it’s doing something intriguing.
This doesn’t guarantee I’ll fall in love with the game; however, it does imply that even if Wanderstop doesn’t fully resonate with me, it’ll probably be in a way that’s thought-provoking. I much prefer games that dare to be different—even if they falter—over those that play it safe and merely succeed. Of course, there’s also the chance that Wanderstop might end up being a favorite. This weekend, I’ll finally dive in and see for myself. But right now, in this moment just before starting, there’s a unique excitement—a thrill of the unknown that comes with embarking on a new gaming adventure. — Carolyn Petit
