The sun goddess return! 
In 2006 Capcom released  Okami, a Zelda like game, on the ps2. Now Okami will be released on the Wii which suits the game even better.

Background

The basics of Okami are similar to the Zelda. More than one game has tried to copy the formula but no game has pulled it of as well as Okami. It must be said that the developers admit they’re highly influenced by the Zelda series.

So if you don’t know Zelda expect: Lots of running around in a fairly open world, exploring beautiful inventive dungeons, collecting power ups and defeating lots of bosses.

If you do know the Zelda series and feel a lack of freshness in the latest games, this game might be just for you.

Story

You play as a legendary white wolf infused with the spirit of the sun god, Amaterasu. Only you can save the world from a great evil. Only after you cleared the world dungeon after dungeon naturally. Defeating a dungeon boss restores life to the map. After that, the area is free to explore for hidden items, side quests and more. There’s a lot to do besides running trough dungeons.

Visuals

As can be seen from the images on this page the visual presentation is unique. The whole game has a sumi-e Japanese watercolor feel which works brilliant in this game. And truly sets itself apart from a lot of games out there. And the visuals look even better on Wii than the original on ps2. Wide screen really adds impact. As beautiful the screens look it’s even more impressive when you see this game in motion. Every image you can take from your TV could be a perfect painting.

As in the original you have to use ink as well. The Wii remote feels feels like it was developed for this purpose. And feels way better than the clunky and less intuitive ps2 controller. We have to admit though, the controls could have been slightly tighter. Painting is essential is in this game and what can be done with it is amazing. Simple examples of what you can do is: drawing a big circle in the sky for a sun, making withered trees burst into bloom in a shower of blossoms, daub missing stars onto constellations, drawing straight lines through things to cut them in half. And you can expect even more innovative functions later on in the game.

 

Closing comments:

Okami is unique. In style it is brilliant. In gameplay it has the level of a Zelda game, and in some areas it improves on it. That’s an achievement on its own. But Okami excels on every level. This game feels perfectly comfortable with the Wii remote. And the unique sumi-e style makes this game a pleasure for your eyes. We can’t conclude otherwise….this is absolutely a must have game.

Rating:

10+