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MONSTER

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess
Item: Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Strategy, Single Player

AvailableJul 19, 2024

PlatformXbox Series X, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, PC, PlayStation 4

DeveloperCapcom

Overview

Fend off foul creatures and lead the Spirit Stone Maiden on her path. Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is a brand new title which upholds Capcom's legacy of original and innovative works. This labor of love follows in the tradition of truly unique titles such as Okami and Shinsekai – Into The Depths. Explore an incredible world in which traditional Japanese aesthetics are brought to stunning life by the power of RE Engine. Enjoy a unique gameplay experience blending action and strategy. Witness an epic clash between the spirit realm and mortal man.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess impresses with its rich cultural roots in Japanese folklore, offering a captivating visual storytelling experience. Critics praise its unique setting and engaging protagonist journey, but many lament the shallow narrative and lack of character development, viewing it as a mere gameplay vehicle. The game’s simplistic plot, reliance on minimal dialogue, and brief cutscenes leave players craving deeper storytelling. Overall, while its cultural inspirations shine, execution falls short, leaving a mixed reception among reviewers.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

55%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions surrounding the story of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess reveal a notable appreciation for its unique setting and thematic inspiration from Japanese folklore and mythology. Critics like Digitally Downloaded and PCGamesN highlight the game's roots in cultural elements, such as Kagura dance and Shinto beliefs, which provide an authentic backdrop for the narrative. The journey of the protagonist, Soh, and the divine maiden, Yoshiro, as they cleanse the mountain of evil spirits, is described as engaging and unique by several reviewers, including GamesHub and CGMagazine. Many critics, such as TechRadar Gaming and Inverse, commend the game's visual storytelling approach, where body language and environmental cues convey the narrative, allowing for player interpretation and immersion. However, a significant number of critics point out the story's shortcomings, primarily its lack of depth and character development. Reviewers like But Why Tho? and Wccftech emphasize that the narrative feels shallow and serves more as a vehicle for gameplay than a compelling story in its own right. Critics such as SpazioGames and COGconnected echo this sentiment, noting that the plot is simplistic and often confusing, with minimal dialogue and character interactions. The reliance on brief cutscenes to introduce missions, as mentioned by SpazioGames and others, further highlights the game's narrative deficiencies, leaving some players wanting more substantial storytelling. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a divide between those who appreciate the cultural aspects and unique visual storytelling and those who lament the lack of narrative depth and character engagement. While many reviewers, including PlaySense and VG247, acknowledge the engaging premise and the game's beautiful visuals, the overarching sentiment leans towards disappointment regarding the story's complexity. Critics like GameGrin and Loot Level Chill suggest that the game could have benefited from a deeper exploration of its rich cultural inspirations, indicating that while the foundation is strong, the execution leaves much to be desired.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Tl;dr: Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is hailed by critics for its engaging mix of genres, offering strategic depth through tower defense, hack-and-slash, and real-time strategy elements. Reviewers praise its resource management, character development, and dynamic day-night cycle that enriches gameplay. However, some note issues like simplistic strategies, lackluster boss fights, and potential repetitiveness. Overall, it’s a solid, enjoyable game that successfully blends mechanics, making it a worthwhile experience for players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who praise its intricate blend of genres and engaging mechanics. Reviewers from outlets like But Why Tho? and Digitally Downloaded highlight the game's strategic depth, with elements of tower defense, hack-and-slash action, and real-time strategy coming together to create a compelling experience. Critics such as PCGamesN and Siliconera commend the variety of gameplay mechanics, including resource management, character development, and the dynamic day-night cycle that adds layers to the strategy involved in defending the Shrine Maiden. The emphasis on tactical planning and unit management, as noted by GamingTrend and Push Square, contributes to a satisfying gameplay loop that keeps players engaged. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics have pointed out certain shortcomings in the gameplay. For instance, Metro GameCentral and Digital Chumps express concerns about the simplicity of the strategic elements, suggesting that they can undermine the potential depth of the game. Additionally, GameGrin and PlaySense note that while the gameplay is enjoyable, some boss fights lack the strategic complexity that players might expect, which can detract from the overall experience. Furthermore, Pure Nintendo mentions a sense of repetitiveness that can set in over time, suggesting that while the gameplay is initially engaging, it may not maintain its freshness throughout the entirety of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess offers a well-crafted and enjoyable gameplay experience that successfully blends various genres. The majority of reviewers, including Wccftech and GameSpew, agree that the game’s engaging mechanics and strategic depth provide a rewarding challenge for players. While there are criticisms regarding the depth of certain gameplay elements and potential repetitiveness, the positive reception far outweighs the negatives, indicating that the game is a strong addition to the genre that many players will find enjoyable.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is visually stunning, earning high praise for its vibrant art and faithful depiction of feudal Japan. Critics admire its intricate character designs and atmospheric use of the RE Engine, likening its aesthetic to titles like Monster Hunter and Ghostwire Tokyo. However, some note dated graphics and reduced fidelity on the Nintendo Switch 2. Overall, the game excels in visual appeal, capturing Japanese culture and mythology while establishing itself as one of Capcom's most impressive titles.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

90%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who consistently praise the game's intricate and vibrant aesthetic. Reviewers from outlets like But Why Tho? and Digitally Downloaded highlight the game's faithful representation of feudal Japan, with character designs and environments that are both attractive and immersive. The use of the RE Engine has been noted by Eurogamer Germany and Wccftech for delivering captivating visuals, showcasing picturesque landscapes and detailed character models. Critics like PCGamesN and Siliconera appreciate the unique blend of Japanese folklore and horror elements, with striking enemy designs that enhance the overall visual experience. The game's art direction has been described as absorbing and reminiscent of notable titles like Monster Hunter and Ghostwire Tokyo, further solidifying its strong visual identity. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics have pointed out a few shortcomings. COGconnected mentions that while the game features a unique visual style, certain graphics may appear dated, resembling those of a PS3 game. This sentiment is echoed by Push Square, which notes a lack of environmental detail despite the unique designs of demon models. Additionally, while many reviews praise the visuals, a few, such as Loot Level Chill, indicate that the visual fidelity on the Nintendo Switch 2 is somewhat reduced compared to other platforms, though the performance remains solid. These critiques suggest that while the game excels in many areas, there are aspects that could benefit from further refinement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess presents a visually stunning experience that effectively captures the essence of Japanese culture and mythology. With numerous reviewers, including VG247 and GameGrin, lauding its impressive art direction and character designs, it is clear that the game's graphics are a standout feature. The combination of vibrant colors, intricate details, and a unique blend of traditional and modern elements has resonated well with players and critics alike, establishing it as one of Capcom's most visually impressive titles. Despite minor criticisms regarding graphical fidelity on certain platforms, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, showcasing the game's strong visual appeal.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess boasts a stellar soundtrack and immersive sound design, enhancing gameplay with serene music and tension-building scores noted by critics like Eurogamer Germany and GamesHub. While praised for its cultural authenticity and diverse compositions, some critiques point to limited variety and potential distractions from the DualSense speaker. Overall, the game's audio elements are a standout feature, effectively merging traditional Japanese music with modern flair, making it a highlight in Capcom's offerings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess have garnered a predominantly positive reception from critics, highlighting the game's ability to enhance the overall gameplay experience. Eurogamer Germany praises the serene and Zen-like music that complements the gameplay, particularly noting how it swells during battles, adding tension and atmosphere. Similarly, GamesHub lauds the stunning musical score that enriches the audio-visual experience, while PC Invasion appreciates the enjoyable auditory landscape created by a blend of fast-paced jams, traditional music, and peaceful village tunes. Critics like COGconnected and GameGrin emphasize the gorgeous orchestrations and authentic Japanese music that effectively immerse players in the game's cultural setting. The overall sentiment is that the soundtrack, featuring soothing piano tracks and varied compositions, significantly elevates the player's experience. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics point out limitations in the music's variety and execution. Siliconera mentions that while the music is beautiful, it is somewhat limited, which could detract from the overall experience for some players. Additionally, Push Square expresses concern over the constant use of the DualSense controller's speaker, which could be perceived as distracting rather than enhancing. While the soundtrack is generally well-received, these critiques suggest that there are areas where the audio experience could be further refined. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess excels in its sound design and music, creating an immersive atmosphere that resonates with players. The majority of reviewers, including TechRadar Gaming and Metro GameCentral, highlight the effective blending of traditional Japanese music with modern elements, contributing to a fantastic and varied soundtrack. The positive remarks significantly outweigh the criticisms, suggesting that the game's audio elements are a strong point that enhances both peaceful and intense moments throughout the gameplay, making it a standout title in Capcom's lineup.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess shines on PC and Nintendo Switch 2, praised for smooth performance and stability. Critics rave about its optimization and advanced features on these platforms. In contrast, the PS5 version struggles with UI issues and graphical inconsistencies, suggesting it needs more polish. The Xbox Series X offers a stable experience but lacks standout features. Overall, the game's technical performance is strong, but the PS5 falls short.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

21%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In analyzing the technical performance of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess across various platforms, the overall sentiment is largely positive, particularly for the PC and Nintendo Switch 2. Reviewers like Eurogamer Germany and GamesHub commend the game's smooth performance on the Steam Deck, with the latter emphasizing its excellent experience on an OLED display. PC Invasion also highlights the game's stability, even on older hardware, while Wccftech praises the well-optimized PC port, noting advanced features like DLSS and ray tracing. On the Nintendo Switch 2, critics such as Loot Level Chill and Nintendo Life report flawless performance, with no frame drops and impressive stability in both docked and handheld modes, further reinforcing the game's technical prowess on this platform. However, the PlayStation 5 experience presents a mixed picture. Metro GameCentral points out significant issues with the UI design, particularly criticizing the selection screen for villagers. PlaySense acknowledges stable frame rates but notes graphical pop-in issues and minor blurriness during camera movements. While Push Square reports no performance issues, the concerns raised by other critics suggest that the PS5 version may not be as polished as its PC and Switch counterparts. On the other hand, the Xbox Series X version, as reviewed by Cubed3, maintains a stable gameplay experience without any technical concerns mentioned, but lacks the detailed insights provided for other platforms. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess excels in technical performance on PC and Nintendo Switch 2, with both platforms receiving high praise for their smooth and stable gameplay experiences. In contrast, the PS5 version appears to have some notable issues that detract from its overall performance, despite some reviewers not reporting any major problems. The Xbox Series X seems to fall into a middle ground, offering a stable experience but without the standout features or concerns highlighted in other reviews. This analysis suggests that while the game is well-received across platforms, the PS5 version may require further optimization to match the performance levels seen elsewhere.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess" is praised for its strong replay value thanks to features like New Game+ and diverse gameplay mechanics that reward exploration and strategy. Critics highlight engaging enemy types and RPG elements, appealing to both veterans and newcomers. However, concerns about repetitiveness and grind, especially in base rebuilding and unlocking objectives, could dampen long-term enjoyment. While it excels in strategic challenges, players should be prepared for some tedious aspects.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of "Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess" is largely positive, with many critics highlighting several features that encourage players to revisit the game. Eurogamer Germany notes the inclusion of a New Game+ mode, which adds depth to the experience, while GamesHub emphasizes the methodical and experimental gameplay that rewards players with hidden treasures and challenges. PCGamesN and Wccftech also commend the variety of enemy types and tactical options available, enhancing the replayability for those interested in exploring different strategies. Critics like CGMagazine and COGconnected point out the strategic depth and RPG elements, which further enrich the gameplay experience, making it appealing for both seasoned gamers and newcomers. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the potential for repetitiveness and grind. Several reviewers, including GameGrin and GamingTrend, mention that while the game encourages replaying stages for optional objectives and upgrades, some gameplay elements, like base rebuilding, can feel unfulfilling or tedious. Loot Level Chill and Pure Nintendo highlight that the need for multiple playthroughs to unlock all objectives can lead to a grindy experience, which may detract from the overall enjoyment. This sentiment is echoed by critics who feel that the gameplay formula, while initially engaging, may become monotonous over time. In summary, the consensus among critics is that "Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess" offers a solid replay value through its diverse gameplay mechanics, strategic depth, and New Game+ features. While many reviewers appreciate the engaging aspects and the reasons to revisit levels, there is a shared concern about the repetitive nature of certain gameplay elements that could affect long-term enjoyment. Critics like Noisy Pixel and Nintendo Life encapsulate this duality, acknowledging the game's strengths while cautioning potential players about the grindy aspects that might diminish replay value in the long run. Overall, the game seems to cater well to players who enjoy strategic challenges and exploration, but it may require a commitment to overcome its more tedious elements.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment towards Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its unique blend of gameplay genres, stunning visuals, and engaging mechanics. Reviewers from outlets like Digitally Downloaded and Eurogamer Germany highlight the game's authentic interpretation of Japanese folklore and its captivating aesthetic, which immerses players in a visually rich environment. Critics such as PCGamesN and PC Invasion emphasize the game's successful fusion of action and strategy, noting that it offers a refreshing departure from conventional titles. The engaging gameplay loop and polished presentation have been recognized by multiple reviewers, including GamesHub and Wccftech, who recommend the game as a standout title worth exploring. Despite the strong praise, several critics point out notable shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. Common criticisms include a shallow narrative and a lack of depth in combat mechanics, as mentioned by But Why Tho? and COGconnected. Some reviewers, like SpazioGames and Noisy Pixel, also note that while the game is visually impressive, it suffers from a lack of challenge and an uneven difficulty curve. Additionally, the game's reliance on certain gameplay elements, such as forced replayability and grindy objectives, has been flagged by critics like PlaySense and Loot Level Chill, indicating that these aspects may hinder the overall enjoyment for some players. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is a commendable title that successfully blends various gameplay elements and showcases a beautiful art style, making it a memorable experience for many players. While there are valid concerns regarding its narrative depth and gameplay balance, the majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for its innovation and unique approach to genre blending. Critics like TechRadar Gaming and TheSixthAxis encapsulate this sentiment by describing the game as innovative and endlessly entertaining, solidifying its status as a noteworthy addition to Capcom's portfolio.

TL;DR

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is a visually stunning game praised for its innovative blend of action and strategy, immersing players in rich Japanese folklore. Critics commend its engaging mechanics but highlight flaws like a shallow narrative, uneven difficulty, and grindy gameplay, which may detract from the overall experience. Despite these shortcomings, it stands out as a commendable title in Capcom's lineup, making it worth a look for fans of genre-bending games.

MONSTER

Reviews

150 reviews found

100

GamesHub

Jul 15, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is praised for its uniqueness, engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and captivating music. The reviewer highly recommends taking a chance on this overlooked gem.

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100

Eurogamer Germany

Oct 8, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is highly recommended as a unique and captivating experience, blending tower defense with sword combat in a visually stunning world inspired by Japanese folklore. Despite its initial ease, the game's charm and attention to detail make it a standout title.

Inverse

PlayStation 5

Jul 15, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is a unique and ambitious game that blends strategy and action in a captivating way. With its innovative gameplay, rich storytelling, and immersive art style, it stands out as one of Capcom's best games in years, offering a classic experience that grows more complex and delightful as you progress.

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PCGamesN

Jul 15, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is a unique and captivating experience that successfully blends different genres and thematics, offering something completely new and exciting for players.

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TechRadar Gaming

PlayStation 5

Jul 15, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is described as innovative, exciting, and endlessly entertaining, transcending genres for a highly memorable experience with the makings of an instant classic. Despite some minor drawbacks like forgiving difficulty, the game is well worth experiencing for its unique gameplay and beautiful visuals.

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Cubed3

Xbox Series X

Jul 26, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is praised for its fun gameplay loop, polished presentation, and entertaining story, making it a memorable experience worth playing.

Digitally Downloaded

Jul 24, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess offers an authentic interpretation of Kagura through the video game medium, with engaging gameplay and stunning visuals. It deserves recognition beyond being labeled just an 'action tower defense' game.

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Loot Level Chill

Jun 17, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is praised for its engaging combat and unique gameplay blend, despite some flaws in story depth and grindy objectives.

Wccftech

Jul 15, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess offers a unique and engaging gameplay experience with great visuals and replay value, despite minor issues like a shallow narrative and low challenge level.

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Pure Nintendo

Jun 17, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is a visually stunning game with unique gameplay mechanics, though it suffers from a lack of story and potential repetitiveness.