Available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, Wanderstop offers players a unique goal: to brew a perfect cup of tea.
I am genuinely thrilled to dive into Wanderstop, a game intriguingly described on its Steam page as centering around “change and tea.” My excitement largely stems from the fact that it marks the debut of Ivy Road, a studio established by Davey Wreden. Wreden is the creative mind behind The Stanley Parable and The Beginner’s Guide, both of which are renowned for their originality and unique perspectives. On first glance, through the snippets and trailers I’ve seen, Wanderstop seems to fit neatly into the category of “cozy games”—those low-pressure, feel-good titles where you manage a business—in this case, a tea shop—while basking in a relaxing atmosphere. Nevertheless, given Wreden’s track record, I suspect there’s something more beneath the surface. I wouldn’t be surprised if Wanderstop veers off into unexpected territory, and that thrill of unpredictability is exactly what I’m hoping for. I’m eager for the game to defy my expectations and keep me guessing.
Another reason I’m looking forward to experiencing Wanderstop is the diverse critical reception it has garnered. Reviews range from mild approval to outright admiration. While I’ve resisted reading these reviews to preserve the element of surprise, it’s evident from the varied responses that the game is generating a lot of discussion. I often feel that games deserve a broader spectrum of critical opinion, but with today’s tendencies towards consensus in mainstream gaming criticism, a wide range of reactions usually signals that the game dares to stand out.
Now, this doesn’t necessarily mean I expect to adore it. It’s possible I’ll find it lacking. However, I’d much prefer a game that bravely attempts something groundbreaking—even if it fumbles a bit—over one that sticks to a conventional formula and plays it safe. Of course, there’s always the possibility I might end up loving Wanderstop. I’ll be diving into it this weekend, eager to form my own opinion. But there’s something uniquely delightful about this pre-play moment—the anticipation of starting a fresh game adventure, completely unsure of what’s in store. — Carolyn Petit
