Mini Review: The Wandering Village (PS5) – A Colossally Good City Builder

Perched high upon a massive creature known as an Onbu, The Wandering Village is set in a post-apocalyptic landscape where lethal spores have decimated the familiar world we once knew. First introduced on Steam in 2022, this widely acclaimed city-building simulation has now been launched for PlayStation 5.

In this landscape called the Onbu, various types of terrain abound, offering resources for its inhabitants. These resources include an abundance of wood, clay, and stone. By tapping into the knowledge provided by a research tree, you can access multiple construction sites to refine these raw materials more effectively.

Although it appears straightforward, the Onbu journey encompasses a variety of terrains that present unique difficulties. For instance, deserts are not suitable for cultivating specific crops or harvesting atmospheric water, whereas the sea offers abundant water sources yet tires the Onbu more rapidly.

What makes The Wandering Village unique is the extra hurdles it presents beyond typical city-building, such as managing the Onbu’s stats and its journey through the world map. You need to be vigilant because, just like real animals, the Onbu doesn’t always obey commands.

In The Wandering Village, there’s a lot of room for strategic decision-making, making each playthrough unique: you can uncover research paths in various ways, guide Onbu towards beneficial territories, and send scouts to distinctive locations. Each choice yields different results, offering diverse experiences. This depth may be what sets The Wandering Village apart from other city builders when it comes to replay value.

The enchanting visuals reminiscent of Studio Ghibli’s artistry, The Wandering Village is an engaging city-building simulation that carries a genuine heart. Beneath its surface lies a profound metaphor, weaving a deeper message about the interconnectedness between civilization and its surroundings, offering insights into their mutual relationship.

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2025-07-18 23:06