Available for PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, I’m eagerly awaiting my chance to dive into Wanderstop, that intriguing new game centered around “change and tea,” as its Steam description so succinctly puts it. The anticipation is heightened by the fact that this is the debut game from Ivy Road, the brainchild of Davey Wreden. Fans might remember him as the creative force behind The Stanley Parable and The Beginner’s Guide, two incredibly original projects that didn’t shy away from exploring their unique narratives.
At first glance, Wanderstop seems to settle into the category of “cozy games,” those delightful, low-pressure experiences where you’re encouraged to absorb a pleasant atmosphere while managing some sort of business—this time, a quaint tea shop. However, knowing Wreden’s flair for the unexpected, I’m betting there’s more hiding beneath the serene surface, waiting to disrupt the status quo. That’s precisely what I’m hoping for, too—a twist that catches me off guard and defies what I expect from the genre.
Another reason for my excitement is the diverse critical reception the game has garnered. Opinions range from moderately positive to downright ecstatic, and while I’ve avoided reading too many reviews to maintain my unbiased perspective, this spectrum of feedback signals to me that Wanderstop is stirring things up. It’s refreshing to see a game provoke such a broad array of commentary, especially when mainstream game reviews often lean towards a narrow consensus. When I see varied opinions, it usually indicates the game is doing something compelling that inspires discussion.
However, this doesn’t guarantee I’ll fall head over heels for it; it simply suggests that whether I adore it or find it lacking, the game will at least engage me in an unconventional way. Personally, I’d rather spend time with a game that bravely ventures into new territory, even if it misses the mark, than one that opts for predictability and achieves it. But who knows? Wanderstop may end up winning my heart. This weekend, I’ll make it my mission to find out. Yet, right now, there’s a certain magic in the air—standing at the threshold of a new gaming experience, full of possibilities and the thrill of not knowing what lies ahead. — Carolyn Petit
