Ori and the Will of the Wisps guide: Must-know tips and tricks

Ori and the Will of the Wisps is here, and it’s tremendous. If you’re diving into this franchise for the first time (or are a returning vet that’s a bit rusty), here are my best tips and tricks.

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Ori and the Will of the Wisps is here, and it is a platforming triumph. Taking place in the events following the first game, Will of the Wisps takes everything Moon Studios built and dials it up several notches, with ecstasy-inducing combat, razor-sharp platforming, and Metroidvania-style exploration. Some technical issues hold it back, but they’re being rapidly smoothed out via patches.

If you’re jumping in for the first time, or are a returning Ori veteran, I have some tips and tricks (spoiler-free) to help guide you on your way.

Ori and the Will of the Wisps Combat tips and tricks

Ori and the Will of the Wisps Combat tips and tricks

Ori and the Will of the Wisps has an all-new combat system that goes far further than the previous game in terms of variety and complexity. As you progress through the game, you’ll end up with a vast array of attacks and abilities that can help you dispatch enemies.

A lot of the time, you don’t need to kill anything and can speedrun to the end if that’s your desire. Enemies drop currency that can be spent on upgrades, though, and honestly, it’s just so damn satisfying to kill things.

Ori and the Will of the Wisps Exploration tips and tricks

Ori and the Will of the Wisps Exploration tips and tricks

Ori and the Will of the Wisps, like any self-respecting Metroidvania-like puts a big emphasis on exploration. I’m sure it won’t be long until there are full-blown collectible guides up on the internet, but if you’re like me, you may decide finding them for yourself makes up part of the fun. That said, some of the mechanics that hide Ori’s secrets aren’t as easy to find as they probably could be.

Ori and the Will of the Wisps Progression tips and tricks

One of the most significant new features in Ori and the Will of the Wisps is the inclusion of a currency-based progression system, which you buy via vendors and characters rather than in a menu screen. This change makes Ori’s world feel a little more inhabited while giving you far more options to tailor your playstyle.

Ori and the Will of the Wisps is awesome

Will of the Wisps has a few rough edges, but it does little to hinder the overall experience, which is simply sublime cover to cover. Hopefully, these tips and tricks will get you started without making thingstooeasy like a full-blown guide might, but some things in Ori definitely aren’t obvious. The fact the game doesn’t hand-hold adds to the challenge, and thus, the fun!

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If you need any other tips, hit the comments and let me know!

A work of art.

Ori and the Will of the Wisps is tight, deep, stunning, and evocative. A vast artistic achievement, and a must-buy Xbox and PC game. At least until after we see how the day one patch handles things.

Jez Corden is the Executive Editor at Windows Central, focusing primarily on all things Xbox and gaming. Jez is known for breaking exclusive news and analysis as relates to the Microsoft ecosystem while being powered by tea. Follow onTwitter (X)andThreads, and listen to hisXB2 Podcast, all about, you guessed it, Xbox!