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Review of The Forest Cathedral on PS5

by Gemma Looksby Gemma Looksby photo Nov 2023
Cover image of The Forest Cathedral on PS5
Gamefings Score: 6.5
Platform: PS5 PS5 logo
Released: 06 Nov 2023
Genre: Adventure/Puzzle
Developer: Brian Wilson
Publisher: Whitethorn Games

Introduction

Welcome to The Forest Cathedral, where you can explore the greenest things in life-trees, foliage, and, apparently, existential dread! Stepping into this eco-vigilante adventure feels a bit like being handed a book report on pesticides-but with a better graphics engine. Our journey has us petting fluffy squirrels and solving puzzles worthy of a Mensa level IQ, all while channeling the spirit of environmentalist and arachnophobe (probably?) Rachel Carson. Grab your biodegradables; it's time to dive in!

Gameplay

In this 3D adventure, you play as the detective of the damp-yep, it's Rachel Carson herself! Enter the world of Science Island, where you're equipped with an arsenal of eco-tools to scan, detect, and possibly argue with the wildlife about climate change. Your mission? To reveal the hidden anomalies of the island by solving dated 2D puzzles that are not just a walk in the park-because let's be real, when's the last time you saw a 2D puzzle in the wild? As you engage with this vibrant playground, expect to tackle environmental puzzles that make you feel like a tree-hugging genius and a confused raccoon at the same time. Plus, the voice acting... Oh boy, it's like Grandma reading the phonebook-compelling, but you're not quite feeling it. Navigating platforming sections requires great precision, and I mean ninja-level precision, or you might just find yourself plummeting off digital cliffs. Ouch! But if you like a little frustration with your fun, then this game is basically your new best friend.

Graphics

Let's talk graphics! The Forest Cathedral is beautifully rendered, like a Pinterest board exploded in a field of green. The colorful aesthetics do a decent job of immersing you in the world. It's visually stunning, capturing the serenity of nature while simultaneously serving up a cold dish of 'what have we done to our planet?' It'll have you feeling calm and anxious, all at once. Trees sway gently as if they're whispering secrets-probably about how they are not happy with humanity. Pro tip: don't ask them to do a TikTok dance.

Conclusion

Overall, The Forest Cathedral attempts to blend heartfelt environmental messages with puzzling gameplay, but it often finds itself in the weeds (pun intended). It's both an educational experience and a brain teaser that can feel disjointed at times. Think of it like getting a salad when you ordered a burger-healthy, but may not be what you were truly craving. Sure, it has its flaws and wobbly platforming segments, but for those who appreciate a sprinkle of eco-panic with their puzzle-solving, it's worth your time. So gear up, channel your inner Rachel Carson, and prepare to grapple with nature, all while haphazardly dodging her scornful gaze. Just remember: every tree really does have a story, especially when they're judging your gaming skills!

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