You can dive into Wanderstop on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. The premise? Simply brewing a nice cup of tea.
I’m really looking forward to giving Wanderstop a try. It’s the debut game from Ivy Road, which was founded by Davey Wreden. If that name sounds familiar, it’s because he’s the mind behind the uniquely innovative games The Stanley Parable and The Beginner’s Guide. From the trailers, Wanderstop might seem like your typical “cozy game” where you enjoy tranquil vibes while managing some sort of business—in this case, a charming tea shop. But, knowing Wreden’s flair for the unexpected, I have a sneaking suspicion there’s more to it. I’m anticipating some surprises, perhaps a twist that will catch me completely off guard. That’s exactly what I’m hoping for: a game that flips the script and keeps me engaged.
Another reason for my eagerness stems from the diverse feedback the game has received. Reviews have ranged from moderate praise to glowing accolades. Though I’ve avoided reading them to keep my experience fresh, it’s clear the game has sparked a variety of opinions. I believe more games should inspire a spectrum of critical responses, but the reality is that mainstream game criticism often leans towards consensus. When a game does break that mold, it signals to me that it’s doing something worthwhile.
This doesn’t necessarily guarantee I’ll love it; even if I don’t, I might at least appreciate its effort in trying something different. I’d rather engage with a game that reaches for originality and misses than one that plays it safe and succeeds without any bold moves. There’s also the possibility that I might find myself truly loving Wanderstop. This weekend, I’ll dive in to see for myself. But for now, this moment before starting—the anticipation—is one of the most thrilling parts: the excitement of embarking on a new game journey without any clue of where it might lead. — Carolyn Petit
