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CRITIK

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess
Item: Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableJul 19, 2024

PlatformXbox One, PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5

DeveloperCapcom

Overview

Fend off foul creatures and lead the Spirit Stone Maiden on her path. Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is a brand new title which upholds Capcom's legacy of original and innovative works. This labor of love follows in the tradition of truly unique titles such as Okami and Shinsekai – Into The Depths. Explore an incredible world in which traditional Japanese aesthetics are brought to stunning life by the power of RE Engine. Enjoy a unique gameplay experience blending action and strategy. Witness an epic clash between the spirit realm and mortal man.

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Game analysis

Critik Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

54%

Mixed (50-79)

46%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The Story of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess has received mixed reviews regarding its narrative. Critics such as Digitally Downloaded, PCGamesN, and CGMagazine praise the game for its unique and engaging story rooted in Japanese folklore and mythology. They appreciate the focus on protecting a shrine maiden from evil forces, showcasing elements of Japanese culture and traditions. The use of silent characters and visual storytelling, as highlighted by Cubed3 and TechRadar Gaming, adds to the immersive experience and effectively conveys emotions without the need for extensive dialogue. On the other hand, some critics express concerns about the depth and complexity of the story in Kunitsu-Gami. But Why Tho?? and SpazioGames note the lack of depth in the narrative, with a focus primarily on gameplay rather than a rich storytelling experience. Wccftech criticizes the shallow narrative, citing a lack of character development and depth in the traditional Japanese setting. Metro GameCentral and GameGrin also point out the story's simplicity and missed opportunities to delve deeper into the rich Japanese history and mythology, leaving the plot feeling underdeveloped and confusing. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards appreciating the unique setting and thematic elements of Kunitsu-Gami's story while acknowledging its shortcomings in depth and character development. The game successfully immerses players in a world inspired by Japanese folklore, offering a different approach to storytelling through visual cues and silent interactions. However, the narrative could benefit from more intricacies and fleshed-out character arcs to elevate the overall experience, as suggested by critics like GameGrin and Metro GameCentral. Despite its flaws, the game manages to captivate players with its engaging premise and cultural influences, resonating positively with those who value a different storytelling approach in video games.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess gets mixed reviews for its narrative. Critics praise the engaging story rooted in Japanese folklore but criticize its lack of depth and character development. The game immerses players in a unique world but falls short in delivering a fully fleshed-out experience.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

88%

Mixed (50-79)

13%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The majority of critics praised the gameplay of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, highlighting its engaging mix of tower defense, hack-and-slash, and real-time strategy elements. Critics like PCGamesN and PC Invasion appreciated the seamless integration of different gameplay mechanics, creating a satisfying and immersive experience. The gameplay loop involving managing villagers, assigning roles, and strategic decision-making during battles was commended for its depth and complexity. Reviewers such as Digitally Downloaded and GAMES.CH noted the strategic elements evolving with unlocked classes and levels, adding layers of progression and variety to the gameplay. On the flip side, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks in the gameplay of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess. Metro GameCentral criticized the simplistic strategy elements, suggesting that the game structure undermined their potential. Additionally, PlaySense mentioned that while the game offered a mix of real-time strategy, tower defense, and hack-and-slash elements, some boss fights lacked strategic depth, potentially leading to repetitive gameplay experiences for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the gameplay of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess. The game successfully combines various genres such as tower defense, hack-and-slash, and real-time strategy to deliver a unique and engaging experience. Critics appreciated the depth of gameplay mechanics, the strategic decision-making required during battles, and the progression system that kept the gameplay experience fresh and rewarding. Despite some minor criticisms, the majority of reviewers found the gameplay to be a standout feature of the game, showcasing a well-balanced mix of action and strategy that captivated players throughout their playthroughs.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics loved the engaging mix of tower defense, hack-and-slash, and real-time strategy in Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, praising its depth, complexity, and progression system. While some noted drawbacks like simplistic strategy elements and repetitive boss fights, overall, the gameplay received overwhelmingly positive reviews for its unique blend of genres and captivating gameplay experience.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

92%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of critics unanimously praised the Graphics and Visual Design of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, highlighting various positive aspects. Critics such as But Why Tho?? and Digitally Downloaded commended the intricate and attractive character designs faithful to the feudal Japanese setting, with impressive monster and boss designs inspired by Yokai. Eurogamer Germany and GamesHub appreciated the detailed and colorful visuals, showcasing picturesque landscapes and stunning diorama-like environments. PC Invasion and Siliconera praised the visually stunning art style inspired by traditional Japanese Edo period, with beautifully designed foes and striking designs for the Seethe and yokai. Additionally, TechRadar Gaming noted the lavishly detailed visuals with woodblock-style illustrations and real-world miniature diorama-like environments, showcasing a high level of care and unique art direction. However, there were some criticisms regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess. COGconnected pointed out that while the game features a unique visual style with horror elements, the graphics were considered dated, resembling a PS3 game. Push Square mentioned a lack of environmental detail in the top-down perspective, although they appreciated the visually appealing demon models. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment towards the game's Graphics and Visual Design remained overwhelmingly positive. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess excels in its Graphics and Visual Design, with the majority of reviewers praising the game for its stunning and immersive art style inspired by Japanese myths and legends. Critics such as CGMagazine and TheSixthAxis highlighted the visually striking art direction, beautiful effects, and designs of enemies that capture the essence of historic Japanese aesthetics and mythology. The game's attention to detail, creative enemy designs, and unique visual elements were widely appreciated, making it one of Capcom's most visually impressive games, as noted by VG247. Overall, the positive reception towards the Graphics and Visual Design of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess showcases the game's strong visual identity and its successful execution in bringing the world of feudal Japan to life in a captivating and visually appealing manner.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics raved about the stunning Graphics and Visual Design of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, praising its intricate character designs, impressive monster creations, and picturesque environments inspired by feudal Japan. While some critics found the graphics slightly dated and lacking in detail, the overwhelming sentiment was positive, with the game lauded for its immersive art style drawing from Japanese myths and legends. Kunitsu-Gami shines as one of Capcom's visually impressive games, capturing the essence of historic Japanese aesthetics and mythology with creative enemy designs and unique visual elements.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

86%

Mixed (50-79)

14%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The majority of critics praised the Sound Design and Music of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, highlighting various positive aspects. Eurogamer Germany appreciated the serene and Zen-like music that enhanced the gameplay experience, especially during intense battles against the Damned. GamesHub commended the stunning musical score that elevated the audio-visual experience, particularly when played with English-subtitled Japanese for immersion. PC Invasion enjoyed the mix of Japanese fast-paced jams, traditional music, and peaceful village tunes that added tension and complemented the gameplay. Siliconera noted the limited but beautiful music that enhanced the overall experience, while Wccftech highlighted the soothing piano tracks in purified villages that enhanced the player's experience. On the flip side, some critics did point out certain negatives regarding the Sound Design and Music of the game. Push Square mentioned the obnoxiously constant use of the DualSense controller's speaker, which detracted from the otherwise impressive soundtrack blending smooth and calm melodies with funky prog-rock. While this was a specific criticism, it did not seem to be a prevailing sentiment among the majority of reviewers. Overall, the consensus among the critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the Sound Design and Music of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess. Critics like COGconnected, GameGrin, and Metro GameCentral praised the gorgeous orchestrations, authentic Japanese music, and varied soundtrack that effectively complemented the game's Japanese cultural influence. The majority of reviewers appreciated how the music enhanced different gameplay moments, added tension during combat, and contributed to creating an immersive atmosphere. The positive reception towards the Sound Design and Music indicates that it was a standout aspect of the game that significantly added to the overall experience, resonating well with the majority of critics.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics raved about the Sound Design and Music of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, praising its serene and Zen-like tunes that immersed players in intense battles. While some criticized the overuse of the DualSense controller's speaker, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive. The stunning musical score, mix of Japanese jams, and soothing piano tracks were lauded for enhancing the gameplay and creating an immersive experience.

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

56%

Mixed (50-79)

33%

Negative (0-49)

11%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of technical performance on PC, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess received positive feedback from multiple critics. Eurogamer Germany highlighted that the game ran smoothly on the Steam Deck at 40 frames per second on low detail settings, offering a playable experience. GamesHub also praised the game for running terrifically on an OLED Steam Deck, ensuring a smooth gaming experience without any technical issues mentioned. PC Invasion commended the game for running smoothly even on aging GPUs, demonstrating good technical performance and stability. Wccftech further added to the positive feedback by noting that the PC port was well-optimized, offering features like DLSS, ray tracing, and good graphics options, running smoothly on high-end hardware. On the other hand, some negative aspects were pointed out by critics regarding the technical performance on console platforms. Metro GameCentral, who played on PS5, highlighted issues with the UI design, particularly criticizing the selection screen for villagers as one of the worst seen in years. PlaySense also playing on PS5, mentioned graphical pop-in issues and minor blur around the character during camera movement, detracting from the overall experience. Despite these drawbacks, Cubed3's review of the game on Xbox Series X did not mention any technical issues or performance concerns, suggesting a stable gameplay experience on this platform. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess delivers solid technical performance on PC, with smooth gameplay, good optimization, and a range of graphical features enhancing the experience. However, on console platforms, particularly on PS5, there were some noted technical issues such as UI design problems and graphical imperfections that impacted the overall gameplay experience. Despite these criticisms, the general sentiment is that the game offers a stable performance across different platforms, with varying degrees of technical polish depending on the platform.

TL;DR

technical performance

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess shines on PC with smooth gameplay, DLSS, and ray tracing, but faces UI and graphical issues on PS5. Xbox Series X offers a stable experience.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

42%

Mixed (50-79)

58%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of the critics regarding the Replay Value of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess highlight several positive aspects. Critics like GamesHub and PCGamesN appreciate the game's encouragement of methodical and experimental gameplay, offering challenges, hidden treasures, and varied enemy types that provide reasons to revisit levels and explore different strategies. COGconnected praises the RPG elements that enhance replay value, allowing players to level up units, unlock new units, and replay levels for more experience. The evolving gameplay with unlocked classes and levels, as mentioned by GAMES.CH, adds to the replayability by offering strategic challenges and diverse gameplay experiences. Additionally, TechRadar Gaming notes the city-building mode that provides additional content and upgrade materials, further enhancing the overall replay value of the game. On the other hand, some critics point out potential negatives related to the Replay Value of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess. SpazioGames mentions that the game may feel tedious for those aiming for shrine rewards, requiring dedication and attention to master the game. PlaySense criticizes the forced nature of replaying levels to earn skill points through extra challenges, which can artificially lengthen the gameplay experience. Noisy Pixel highlights that some gameplay phases, like base rebuilding, may feel unfulfilling, potentially impacting the overall enjoyment of replaying certain aspects of the game. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess offers substantial replay value through its unique gameplay mechanics, varied enemy types, strategic depth, and RPG elements. Critics like CGMagazine and GameGrin appreciate the strategic challenges, variety of units, and boss encounters that add depth to the gameplay experience. While some critics point out potential drawbacks such as tedious objectives and unfulfilling gameplay phases, the majority of reviewers acknowledge the game's ability to keep players engaged through multiple playthroughs. The mix of genres, satisfying gameplay loop, and noticeable upgrades, as highlighted by PC Invasion, cater to both seasoned gamers and newcomers, ensuring an enjoyable and replayable experience for fans of tower defense games and strategic challenges alike.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics praise Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess for its strategic depth, varied enemies, and RPG elements that enhance replay value. Some mention potential downsides like tedious objectives and unfulfilling gameplay phases, but overall, reviewers agree that the game offers engaging and diverse experiences that cater to both seasoned gamers and newcomers.

Overall Verdict

CRITIK

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Critik Score

Positive (80-100)

84%

Mixed (50-79)

16%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

In analyzing the opinions of the critics regarding the Overall Verdict of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, it is evident that the game received a predominantly positive reception. Many critics praised the game for its unique blend of gameplay genres, stunning visuals, engaging gameplay mechanics, and captivating music. For instance, GamesHub commended the game for its "engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and captivating music," while PC Invasion highlighted its "delightful gameplay experience" and visually enjoyable design. The game's innovative take on the tower-defense genre, exciting action combat, and visually stunning art style, as mentioned by Siliconera, also contributed to its positive reception. On the downside, some critics pointed out certain shortcomings in Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess. While the majority of critics appreciated the game's unique gameplay structure and creative world-building, there were mentions of a thin narrative, basic combat mechanics, and moments of waning interest. COGconnected noted that the story is thin and the combat is basic, while Metro GameCentral mentioned underdeveloped strategy elements and feeling undercooked. These criticisms suggest that while the game excelled in various aspects, there were areas where it fell short of delivering a fully immersive and consistently engaging experience. Overall, the consensus among the critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority of them praising Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess as a standout title that offers a unique and captivating experience. Eurogamer Germany described it as a "unique and captivating experience" that blends tower defense with sword combat in a visually stunning world, while TechRadar Gaming hailed it as "innovative, exciting, and endlessly entertaining," transcending genres for a highly memorable experience. Despite some minor flaws and criticisms, the game was widely recognized for its creativity, engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and immersive storytelling. In conclusion, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess was celebrated by critics as a refreshing and enjoyable title that successfully pushed boundaries and offered something new and exciting for players.

TL;DR

Critics overwhelmingly praise Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess for its unique gameplay blend, stunning visuals, and captivating music. Despite some flaws like a thin narrative and basic combat, the game excels in innovation and creativity, offering a refreshing and enjoyable experience that pushes boundaries.

CRITIK

Reviews

134 reviews found

100

GamesHub

Jul 15, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is praised for its uniqueness, engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and captivating music. The reviewer highly recommends taking a chance on this overlooked gem.

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100

Eurogamer Germany

Oct 8, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is highly recommended as a unique and captivating experience, blending tower defense with sword combat in a visually stunning world inspired by Japanese folklore. Despite its initial ease, the game's charm and attention to detail make it a standout title.

PCGamesN

Jul 15, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is a unique and captivating experience that successfully blends different genres and thematics, offering something completely new and exciting for players.

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Inverse

PlayStation 5

Jul 15, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is a unique and ambitious game that blends strategy and action in a captivating way. With its innovative gameplay, rich storytelling, and immersive art style, it stands out as one of Capcom's best games in years, offering a classic experience that grows more complex and delightful as you progress.

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TechRadar Gaming

PlayStation 5

Jul 15, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is described as innovative, exciting, and endlessly entertaining, transcending genres for a highly memorable experience with the makings of an instant classic. Despite some minor drawbacks like forgiving difficulty, the game is well worth experiencing for its unique gameplay and beautiful visuals.

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Digitally Downloaded

Jul 24, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess offers an authentic interpretation of Kagura through the video game medium, with engaging gameplay and stunning visuals. It deserves recognition beyond being labeled just an 'action tower defense' game.

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Cubed3

Xbox Series X

Jul 26, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is praised for its fun gameplay loop, polished presentation, and entertaining story, making it a memorable experience worth playing.

Wccftech

Jul 15, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess offers a unique and engaging gameplay experience with great visuals and replay value, despite minor issues like a shallow narrative and low challenge level.

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GAMES.CH

Xbox Series X

Jul 15, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

'Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess' is praised for its unique blend of gameplay genres, stylized graphics, and storytelling approach, offering a playable work of art that may not appeal to a broad audience but provides a refreshing departure from modern gaming trends.

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PC Invasion

Jul 24, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess successfully combines genres, offers a delightful gameplay experience, and stands out with its visually and audibly enjoyable design, making it a refreshing and enjoyable title.

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