So, you’ve got this game called Wanderstop where a warrior runs a tea shop. Seriously? We’ve got knights serving chamomile, then boom, flashbacks of battle? Great, because nothing screams relaxing cup of tea like PTSD. What’s next, dragons in aprons? I’m amazed that someone’s brain thought ‘you know what this peaceful genre needs? Trauma.’ The game’s creator is the same mind behind The Stanley Parable. I get the whole deconstruct-the-genre thing, but good grief. Ever heard of too much irony?
The punchline is managing the tea shop while your inner demons play dodgeball with your sanity. Who thought that was a good mix? I bet somewhere someone is nodding ‘artistic brilliance,’ but spare me. Sure, inject some tension into cozy games, because otherwise, we might actually relax. Also, are customers going to ask awkwardly if the warrior’s okay mid flashback? Imagine the Yelp reviews: ‘Tea was great, but the owner’s thousand-mile stare freaked me out.’ Here’s where you can read more on this trainwreck.
Oh, and let’s remember the ‘managing’ aspect. Like doing inventory while your mind is spinning combat narratives is just what every shop owner dreams of. What’s next in gaming? Chef Sharknado? I’m done.