Woodo Review

I adore a melancholy experience. It makes you reflect on life and brings you closer to your emotions. Woodo does just that with its excellent storytelling, fine visuals, and slow gameplay. It’s not going to be for everyone. However, if you want a change of pace and something that’ll touch your soul, this is the game for you.

Tiny Monk Tales developed this artistic, diorama game. It is a single-player experience that is as supportive or hands-off as you want. Each of the levels has multiple layers that must be explored if you wish to move on. Furthermore, there are plenty of secrets to discover.

Woodo is a story of reflection.

Looking back on your life is something we all do. Occasionally, there is regret, but most of it is experienced through rose-tinted spectacles. The result is a warm feeling that leaves you smiling. This is exactly what happens when you play Woodo. It taps into that sense of nostalgia that keeps us all in a good place.

You play the role of a cute and fluffy animal called Foxy. They are looking back at key moments in their life. However, their memory is fuzzy, and they need help to piece together key elements. As you drop the jigsaw pieces in place, the memories become animated. This simple layer of energy is cute, and I loved every second.

Piecing things together.

I’m not normally a massive fan of jigsaws. Nor do I like to search for the most minor of details. However, Woodo does this so well that it doesn’t feel like a chore. Instead, it has a magical edge that is rewarding and relaxing.

Each of the levels asks you to build more complex pictures of the protagonist’s life. Friends come to call, geese become aggressive, and things get a little out of hand. However, at its core, it is beautifully calm and reflective. On top of this, the story punctuates key moments to great effect. The result is a gentle game that tells an amusing and touching story.

Woodo looks great.

Each stage starts out as a bland and colourless canvas. As you drop in pieces, you build up a new and vibrant world. Items can be interacted with, and creatures start to walk. The simple animation is truly fantastic, and I loved the cute and secretive moments. The audio is where Woodo thrives. The narration is warm and reassuring. Furthermore, it captures the on-screen vibes perfectly. Each level feels unique and personal. Although they are complex, they are never overwhelming or a chore to complete.

The control system is understandably simple. You must rotate the camera, grab pieces, and work through the puzzles. It demands accuracy, but this wasn’t a problem. If you struggle, there is a hint system, and you can get automatic help as well. Replay value is sadly limited to achievement hunters. I flew through the levels, and I’m unlikely to return for more. If the developer incorporates new DLC, I would definitely want to dive back in.

Woodo is fantastic.

Woodo won’t be for everyone. It is too relaxing, calm, and deep for lovers of short, sharp action. However, if you want something that is reflective, wholesome, and safe to play, this is the game for you. I think it’s brilliant, and I recommend grabbing a copy from the Xbox Store!