Introduction
Are you a fan of platformers and looking for a new gaming experience? If so, the Ori series may be just what you’re looking for. However, it can be challenging to determine which game to play first. This guide will walk you through the Ori series and provide you with all the information you need to decide which game to play first.
The Ultimate Ori Timeline: Tracing the Series’ Origins
The Ori series is a two-part video game series developed by Moon Studios. The first Ori game, Ori and the Blind Forest, was released in 2015, and its sequel, Ori and the Will of the Wisps, was released in 2020. The series features a Metroidvania-style gameplay and follows the journey of Ori, a small spirit-like creature, on a quest to save the forest from ruin.
Playing the games in order helps players to understand the intricate narrative connections between the games. Ori and the Blind Forest sets the foundation for the series, while Ori and the Will of the Wisps expands upon it. The two games combine to tell a story about hope, resilience, and sacrifice.
Ori and the Blind Forest
Ori and the Blind Forest takes place in the mystical forest of Nibel, where the white guardian spirit Ori lives. The game focuses on Ori and her quest to restore the forest and save the Spirit Tree from dying. The gameplay includes solving puzzles to progress through different levels and battling enemies with light-based attacks. Ori and the Blind Forest is a beautifully designed, emotionally driven adventure that became an instant classic due to its innovative gameplay and captivating storyline.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Ori and the Will of the Wisps takes place after the events of Ori and the Blind Forest. Ori and her new friend Ku must navigate the vast land of Niwen, which is in peril due to the recent events in the forest. The gameplay includes exploring new locations, battling enemies, and completing quests. The story of Ori and the Will of the Wisps builds upon the foundation of the first game but also gives players a standalone experience with a new story and unforgettable challenges.
A Definitive Guide to Playing Ori in Chronological Order
If you want to experience the Ori series’ story in full, we suggest playing the games in chronological order. When played in order, the games make more sense, and players will have a better understanding of the story and its characters.
Step One: Ori and the Blind Forest
Start with Ori and the Blind Forest. This game sets the foundation for the story, and starting with it will give you a better understanding of the world of Ori. It also introduces the game’s base mechanics, including running, jumping, and solving puzzles. Playing this game first will help you understand some of the references and characters that appear in Ori and the Will of the Wisps.
Step Two: Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Play Ori and the Will of the Wisps next. This game delves deeper into the story of the Ori universe and builds upon the mechanics and features in the first game. You’ll be introduced to new characters, creatures, and locations, each with their unique challenges and storylines. Playing Ori and the Will of the Wisps after Ori and the Blind Forest provides the full storyline experience and allows the players to feel the great sense of accomplishment when they’ve explored every corner of Niwen.
Step Three: Playing Through Both Games Again
Replay both games. One of the great things about Ori games is that they are very replayable. The first playthrough is usually more nerve-racking and challenging since you don’t know what to expect. However, on your second playthrough, you will have a more in-depth understanding of the concepts and gameplay mechanics, which can increase the enjoyment of the game.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps vs. Ori and the Blind Forest: Which One Should You Play First?
If you’re entirely new to the Ori series, you might be wondering which game you should play first, Ori and the Will of the Wisps or Ori and the Blind Forest. Both games have their strengths, but there are a few differences that can help you choose the right game to start with.
Gameplay Mechanics
Ori and the Blind Forest was the first game released, and its gameplay mechanics may seem outdated compared to its sequel. The sequel introduces new mechanics like the ability to swim, has larger areas to explore, and is a more polished experience overall. Therefore, starting with Ori and the Blind Forest allows you to appreciate the series’s evolution and see how the gameplay has improved over time.
Plot
Playing the games in chronological order provides the player with a better understanding of the overall story and characters. However, each game has its complete story that can be enjoyed without playing the other, although players might miss references and story pieces without playing both.
Art Style
One of the most significant differences between Ori and the Blind Forest and Ori and the Will of the Wisps is the art style. Ori and the Blind Forest has a more muted, pastel color scheme while Ori and the Will of the Wisps has a more vibrant color palette. Starting with Ori and the Blind Forest allows you to appreciate the series’s development from the first game to the second gradually.
Discovering the Start of Ori’s Epic Adventure: A Beginner’s Guide
If you’re new to the Ori series, Ori and the Blind Forest is an excellent game to start with. It’s the first game released in the series, and it provides the foundation for the overall story. Additionally, Ori and the Blind Forest is a well-crafted introduction to the series, with a moderate level of difficulty that gives players a sense of accomplishment without being too challenging.
One of the unique things about Ori and the Blind Forest is its art style. The hand-drawn landscapes and character art are breathtaking and immersive, and the music enhances the overall experience. The game’s story is also compelling, with the themes of rebirth and hope resonating with players.
The Mystery of Ori’s Origins: Unpacking the Series’ Timeline
One of the most significant elements of the Ori series is how the games connect and build off each other’s narratives. Ori and the Blind Forest sets up an overarching storyline that is continued in Ori and the Will of the Wisps. Each game has its own unique story, but playing the games in chronological order provides a more complete picture of the overall plot.
The origins of Ori’s universe are significant to the series. The game’s narrative centers around Ori, a small spirit-like creature, and her quest to save the forest from ruin. The series is filled with themes of hope, resilience, and sacrifice, with each game exploring different aspects of these themes. The significance of Ori’s origins is evident in both Ori and the Blind Forest and Ori and the Will of the Wisps.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve learned about the Ori series, its development history, and the benefits of playing the games in chronological order, you’re ready to dive into the world of Ori. Start with Ori and the Blind Forest for a well-tempered adventure, and follow it up with Ori and the Will of the Wisps for an even better experience. Then, replay both games and appreciate how well crafted they are.
If you’re already a fan of the Ori series, hopefully, this article has provided some insights into the Ori universe’s origins and helped you appreciate how all the pieces connect. The series is a masterpiece of storytelling, gameplay, and art, and any gaming enthusiast would do themselves a favor by diving into this magical world.
For further reading, we suggest exploring the Ori subreddit or the official Ori website for more information about the series.