Ori and the Blind Forest
News, coverage and analysis tracking Ori and the Blind Forest across the outlets.
Latest coverage
Multiplayer ‘precision ARPG’ No Rest for the Wicked shows off a new class system as it heads for 1.0 next year
Moon Studios has revealed a new class system for their precision ARPG, No Rest for the Wicked, which will replace the current progression system in the 1.0 release. The game's launch has been delayed to March 2027, with the developers prioritizing this extensive class update and other features like Cerim Cores and a factions system.
Recension – Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse
Castlevania: Belmont's Curse is a strong return to the Metroidvania genre for the series, offering 20 hours of engaging gameplay. Developed by Evil Empire and Motion Twin, it features a vibrant art style inspired by the Netflix series, a dynamic soundtrack, and fluid combat mechanics. The game excels with its whip-based traversal and combat, rewarding exploration with new abilities and weapons, though finding the final secrets can be challenging.
Timeloop metroidvania Echo Weaver is the brave game that locks almost nothing off and challenges you to break it
Echo Weaver is a 2D timeloop metroidvania that allows players significant freedom to break its mechanics from the outset. Developed by Moonlight Kids, the game challenges players to learn and exploit its systems, particularly the versatile glaive, rather than relying on traditional skill unlocks. While the core gameplay is enjoyable and the world visually striking, the narrative writing is considered less effective than the environmental storytelling.
A dying man's quest to finish the Zelda Ocarina of Time remake: "This will be the first, and likely only,…
A terminally ill man named Blake plans to fully complete the upcoming remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time for the Nintendo Switch, a goal he has set for himself as his time winds down. The story highlights the profound impact gaming can have on individuals, with Blake sharing his personal journey with ALS and his cherished moments gaming with his daughter.
Nintendo Switch eShop charts – September 12, 2026 – Metroid Dread makes a comeback
The Nintendo Switch eShop charts for the week of September 12, 2026, show a resurgence for Metroid Dread following the announcement of Metroid Ravenous. Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream remains the top seller, while the new release Dragon Quest Heroes: Torneko’s Mystery Dungeon – Classic HD also charted.
Nintendo Switch eShop charts – September 5, 2026 – Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream on a crazy run
The Nintendo Switch eShop charts for the week of September 5, 2026, show Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream continuing its strong performance with nearly eight million copies sold. The game remains at the top of the overall charts, followed by other popular titles like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Minecraft.
How 40 Years of Metroid Have Impacted The Biggest Metroidvania Developers
This article explores the profound impact of the Metroid series, particularly Super Metroid, on the development of the Metroidvania genre. Developers from various studios discuss how Metroid's interconnected worlds, exploration mechanics, and atmospheric design have inspired their own games, shaping core design philosophies and influencing everything from level design to player agency.
Metroidvania Still Feels Like A Niche Genre That Deserves Better
Despite the enduring legacy of Metroid and Castlevania, the Metroidvania genre remains niche, lacking significant AAA support and blockbuster sales. While indie developers have kept the genre alive with titles like Hollow Knight: Silksong, the author argues it deserves more mainstream attention without becoming oversaturated.
Ori 3 is Not in Development at Saber Interactive, Says Chief Creative Officer
Saber Interactive's Chief Creative Officer Tim Willits has denied that the studio is developing Ori 3, refuting recent rumors. While Saber is working on other exciting projects, Moon Studios' CEO Thomas Mahler stated that they would make a new Ori game if given the go-ahead, calling the rumors nonsense.
Nintendo Switch eShop charts – August 29, 2026 – Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 2 debuts
The Nintendo Switch eShop charts for the week of August 29, 2026, show "Tomodachi Life: Living the Dream" retaining the top spot. "Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 2" debuted at #21 overall and #7 on the download-only chart. Other top titles include "Super Smash Bros. Ultimate," "Minecraft," and "Mario Kart 8 Deluxe."
Moon Studios kallar rykten om ett Ori 3 för "nonsens"
Moon Studios CEO Thomas Mahler has denied rumors circulating about a third Ori game being developed by Saber Interactive for Microsoft. While Moon Studios would be interested in making Ori 3 if Microsoft approved, they are currently focused on their action RPG, No Rest for the Wicked.
A Third Ori Game Could Be Coming, But The Series’ Creator Doesn’t Believe It
Rumors suggest a third Ori game may be in development, but Moon Studios CEO Thomas Mahler has dismissed them as "nonsense." Mahler stated that Moon Studios has discussed purchasing the Ori intellectual property back from Microsoft and believes only their studio can do justice to the series. He also commented on Microsoft's perceived mishandling of its studios and legacy IPs.
Rumours of a third Ori game are "nonsense", confirms series creator
Moon Studios CEO Thomas Maher has debunked rumors of a third Ori game, stating they are "nonsense." He confirmed the studio's focus remains on their action-RPG, No Rest for the Wicked, which recently launched into Early Access and is scheduled for a 1.0 release in October for PC and PlayStation 5. The last Ori title, Ori and the Will of the Wisps, was released in 2020.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time leaker says Xbox is working on a new Ori game, 6 years after its last excellent…
A prominent leaker suggests that Xbox is working on a new installment in the Ori series, a franchise known for its Metroidvania gameplay and stunning visuals. The original developer, Moon Studios, is currently focused on their ARPG 'No Rest for the Wicked', indicating an external studio may be involved in the new Ori project.
NateTheHate: A new Ori game is in the works though not sure if at Gamescom
Reliable leaker NateTheHate has indicated that a new game in the Ori series is in development. While not confirmed if it will be shown at Gamescom, the title is expected to release on the Nintendo Switch and potentially its successor, the Nintendo Switch 2.
Surprise first party Xbox sequel to get reveal next week hints trusted insider
A trusted insider, NateTheHate, has hinted at a surprise first-party Xbox sequel reveal expected at Gamescom's Opening Night Live on August 25. While the specific game remains undisclosed, theories suggest it could be a new installment in the Ori or Sunset Overdrive series, developed by a third-party studio and potentially releasing by year's end.
"Rockstar literally just spent over a billion dollars": Ori studio founder wants you to stop demanding 60 FPS on Xbox Series S just because GTA 6 can run on it
Moon Studios founder Thomas Mahler criticized players demanding 60 FPS on the Xbox Series S, using Grand Theft Auto 6 as a benchmark. He highlighted the vast difference in resources between Rockstar Games and smaller studios, emphasizing that GTA 6's performance is not a guaranteed standard for all games on the console. Mahler also pointed out the technical limitations of the Xbox Series S compared to PC hardware like the Steam Deck.
Phasmophobia Studio Launches A Publishing Label With These Five Exciting Games
Phasmophobia developer Kinetic Games has launched a new publishing label, Kinetic Publishing, and announced its initial lineup of five games. The diverse slate includes the FMV thriller Precognition, the cozy mage life-sim Aether Wizard Life, the unique metroidvania Shellbound, the tense space simulator Contact Protocol, and the witchy racing game Crescent County. These titles are slated for release between 2027 and 2028 on PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch 2.
Indie Selects for August 2026: Adventure is Calling This Summer
Microsoft's ID@Xbox team has highlighted six indie games available in August, including "Deer & Boy," "Hell Clock," "D-topia," "Cozy Grove: Camp Spirit," "Backrooms: Escape Together," and "Moss: The Forgotten Relic." These titles span various genres from narrative adventures and roguelites to puzzle games and co-op horror, offering diverse experiences for players on Xbox platforms.
The Xbox Characters That Defined 25 Years of Gaming
This article examines the iconic characters that have defined Xbox's 25-year history, from Master Chief and Marcus Fenix to Minecraft Steve and Ori. These characters represent the evolution of Xbox from a console newcomer to a multi-platform gaming brand, highlighting shifts in game design, company acquisitions, and the importance of personality in brand identity.
