Ni No Kuni, Wrath of the White Witch.

For as long as I can remember, Hayao Miyzaki has been a personal hero of mine. With the aid of Studio Ghibli, he has created some of the most celebrated animations of all time.

That’s why I preordered a game called Ni No Kuni.

Ni No Kuni is a collaboration effort between Level-5 entertainment and Studio Ghibli. It centers around a young boy, Oliver, who with the aid of some unlikely sidekicks, sets out on a quest to save his mother. If you own a Playstation 3, let me lay down the facts as to why Ni No Kuni should be your next purchase.

            The first reason is story. It’s grand; it’s full of adventure and peril, and it rocks. I think portal fantasy has been lacking the past couple years. I really do. The last good portal fantasy for me was, The Magicians, by Lev Grossman. Before that, Harry Potter. So for me, this got me wrapped up in another great portal fantasy. The plot is compelling and heartfelt without feeling cheesy, generic or overdramatic. As you progress through the game, you get totally attached to the characters in your party and there’s a sense of loss when it’s time to part ways, even if it’s only for a moment.

            The Tokyo Philharmonic executed the in-game music. Enough said.

            Art direction in this game is flawless. It’s absolutely gorgeous and it feels as if you’re playing a Studio Ghibli film. I’d like to add that the transition between playing the game and the in game cut-scenes was as smooth as can be.

            Mechanics and gameplay are another reason why I love this game. It’s just so fun to play and there are no bumps or hiccups along the way. If you’re curious as to what it’s like. Imagine the monster collection and evolution of Pokémon, combined with the turn based/ real time strategy of the early final fantasy series and that’s what it’s like. Fights always feel fresh and engaging and the skill curve as you progress throughout the game is rewarding and just challenging enough.

            If you had any doubts about the game don’t. Enjoy some great entertainment this winter break. I give this game an 8.5/10.