Terrance Shaw

Wukong is an absolutely beautiful game that offers a great bit of challenge without being uppity about it. Graphics and audio are top notch and the story that’s told through it is incredibly compelling. I’d assumed from that initial gameplay trailer years ago that the game was trying to be another souls-like, but that’s not the case. Yes, there’s similar mechanics, but when you die you’re not punished through the loss of experience or currency. 10/10 would highly recommend to those interested in a solid game with solid lore and storytelling.

For context, I’m in my late 30s. I think the game is absolutely beautiful and follows the FromSoftware formula flawlessly, but the sheer number of controls to remember (between boosting, dodging, flying, small and large arms fire, etc.) are absolutely daunting. Managed to get past the tutorial boss after being reminded from a Polygon article that you've other weapons at your disposal than the one I was trying to use, but… I just can’t wrap my mind around which controls to use when. All in all: just too busy for someone of mindset. Still a beautiful game, but one I’m gonna shelf for now.

It’s a great idea with smooth execution, but I just didn’t have the patience to dedicate to the thing. The most recent interactive adventure I can think of to compare with this is Quantic Dream’s Detroit. What that particular story had going for it was that it was a game that helped to establish a bond with the characters, as well as balance the narrative with interaction. Bandersnatch didn’t have compelling characters, nor was there decent balance. I love me some Black Mirror, but I think I’ll stick with their more traditional offerings for a while.