The Best Xbox Game Every Year 2001 - 2024
5. 2020 - Ori and the Will of the Wisps
2020's long-awaited Ori and the Will of the Wisps was the perfect example of what a sequel can and should do. Instead of being a very pretty homage to the genre, like the first game was, Will of the Wisps expanded its influences to include more contemporary titles, unlocking the franchise's full potential.
With a larger map, there was adequate space for the studio to expand the scope of what an Ori game could be. A selection of well-realised NPCs fleshed out the new location of Niwen, almost all of whom served purposes like tracking stats or offering side quests. Boss battles entered the fray for the first time, giving the pace of the game a more precise flow. In turn, these gelled perfectly with Ori's new blade and projectile-based offence which overhauled the combat into something ultimately more satisfying.
It would be impossible not to talk about Ori without complimenting its art direction and Will of the Wisps was gorgeous in every regard - a brilliant soundtrack, jaw-dropping visuals and captivating animation. There was something indelibly warm and sincere about the game's presentation and touching story beats.
Both Ori titles are a testament to games as art, but it's easy to argue that Will of the Wisps remains the most complete feeling Metroidvania still today.