Playable on the PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, the main objective of Wanderstop is surprisingly simple: brew a decent cup of tea.
There’s a buzz of anticipation in the air as I get ready to dive into Wanderstop, a game that intriguingly pairs themes of “change and tea,” as its Steam description notes. This game marks the debut of Ivy Road, the brainchild of Davey Wreden, the creative force behind unique titles like The Stanley Parable and The Beginner’s Guide. These games have set quite a standard with their original visions. From what I’ve gathered through trailers, Wanderstop might seem like a standard cozy game—a calming experience where you manage a charming tea shop. But knowing Wreden’s penchant for surprises, I have a hunch that Wanderstop is going to veer off the well-trodden path and offer some unexpected twists, which is exactly what I’m hoping for. I love when a game can surprise me, disrupting my expectations in the best way.
Another reason my excitement is piqued is due to the diverse reviews the game has already garnered. They range from modest nods to outright enthusiasm. Although I’ve avoided diving into those reviews to preserve my fresh perspective, the mixed reception signals that the game’s doing something distinctive—something that sparks conversations. In a landscape where many game reviews tend to cluster around a consensus, a broad spectrum of critical reactions genuinely captivates me. It hints at a game that might take risks and provoke thought.
Of course, there’s no guarantee I’ll fall in love with Wanderstop. There’s a chance I might find it fascinatingly flawed. Yet, I often find it more rewarding to engage with a game that dares to innovate and perhaps stumbles, rather than one that settles for safe ground and easily succeeds. Who knows, Wanderstop might end up being a title I adore. This weekend, I’ll immerse myself and find out. But right now, there’s a sense of delight in this pre-game moment—a mix of curiosity and excitement about the unknown possibilities ahead. — Carolyn Petit
