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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

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5

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" captivates with its Japanese folklore and stunning visuals, but critics are divided on its narrative depth. While some praise the cultural backdrop and emotional visuals, many find the story shallow and lacking character development. Ultimately, the game offers a rich aesthetic experience but may leave players craving a more complex, engaging plot.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

41%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of "Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess" has garnered praise for its unique cultural inspirations and engaging narrative elements. Critics like Digitally Downloaded and Eurogamer Germany highlight the game's roots in Japanese folklore and Shinto mythology, which enrich the experience by providing a culturally authentic backdrop. The narrative follows the journey of Yoshiro and her protector, Soh, as they cleanse the sacred mountain of evil spirits, a premise that many reviewers found intriguing. GamesHub and CGMagazine commend the game's ability to convey emotion and story through visuals and character interactions, suggesting that the game successfully integrates its narrative with gameplay mechanics, creating a compelling atmosphere. However, a significant number of critics have pointed out the story's shortcomings, particularly its lack of depth and character development. But Why Tho? and Wccftech emphasize that the narrative feels shallow, with minimal dialogue and character backstory, which detracts from the overall experience. SpazioGames and COGconnected echo these sentiments, noting that the story often serves merely as a vehicle for gameplay rather than a driving force of the experience. Many reviews mention that while the premise is interesting, it ultimately fails to explore the rich tapestry of Japanese mythology in a meaningful way, leaving players wanting more depth and emotional connection. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a clear division between those who appreciate the cultural elements and unique storytelling methods and those who criticize the narrative's lack of complexity. While some, like Inverse and Nintendo Life, recognize the potential for player interpretation through visual storytelling, many others, including GameGrin and Pure Nintendo, express disappointment in the minimalistic approach to dialogue and character development. This dichotomy suggests that while "Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess" offers a visually stunning and culturally rich experience, it may not satisfy players seeking a deeply engaging story.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is lauded for its innovative blend of tower defense, hack-and-slash, and real-time strategy, creating a captivating gameplay experience. While critics praise its strategic depth and engaging mechanics, some note flaws like pacing issues, simplistic elements, and potential repetitiveness. Overall, it’s a compelling title for action and strategy fans, despite minor shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

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 been met with largely positive feedback from critics, who praise its intricate blend of genres. Reviewers from outlets such as Eurogamer Germany and PCGamesN highlight the effective combination of tower defense, hack-and-slash, and real-time strategy elements, creating a dynamic and engaging experience. The strategic management of villagers, resource gathering, and the day-night cycle contribute to a well-rounded gameplay loop that keeps players invested. Critics like But Why Tho? and Digitally Downloaded emphasize the depth of strategy involved, particularly during boss battles where positioning and unit management are crucial. The game’s ability to evolve through character upgrades and the introduction of new mechanics, as noted by GAMES.CH and Cubed3, further enhances its appeal, making it a compelling experience for players seeking both action and strategy. Despite the overall acclaim, some critics have pointed out certain shortcomings in the gameplay. Metro GameCentral and Digital Chumps note that while the game starts with exciting action, it can shift to slower strategic phases that disrupt the flow, with some strategic elements described as simplistic or underdeveloped. This sentiment is echoed by PlaySense and Metro GameCentral, who feel that certain boss fights may lack the depth expected from a game that emphasizes strategy. Additionally, some reviews mention that the gameplay can become repetitive over time, as highlighted by Pure Nintendo, which may detract from the long-term enjoyment of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess offers a compelling and enjoyable gameplay experience, successfully blending various genres to create a unique title. The majority of reviewers, including those from TechRadar Gaming and Nintendo World Report, appreciate the engaging mechanics and strategic depth, despite acknowledging some minor flaws in execution. The game stands out for its innovative approach to gameplay, and while there are areas for improvement, the positive feedback indicates that it is a worthwhile experience for fans of action and strategy games alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess boasts stunning graphics and intricate design inspired by Japanese folklore, earning widespread acclaim for its character and monster aesthetics. Critics praise its vibrant colors and immersive environments, particularly lauding the use of the RE Engine. However, some issues on platforms like the Nintendo Switch 2—such as frame rate drops and dated visuals—have been noted. Despite these drawbacks, the game’s art direction shines, solidifying its status as one of Capcom's most visually impressive titles.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is overwhelmingly positive, with many critics praising the game's intricate and immersive visuals. Reviewers from outlets like But Why Tho? and Digitally Downloaded highlighted the game's attractive character designs and the impressive monster aesthetics inspired by Japanese folklore, specifically Yokai. The use of the RE Engine has been commended for delivering captivating landscapes and detailed environments, as noted by Eurogamer Germany and Wccftech. Critics also appreciated the vibrant color palettes and unique art styles that enhance the player's experience, with PCGamesN and GamesHub emphasizing the striking visual elements that bring Japanese myths and legends to life. However, some criticisms have emerged regarding the graphical performance on certain platforms, particularly the Nintendo Switch 2. While many reviewers, such as Cubed3 and Hobby Consolas, acknowledged that the game maintains a respectable visual quality, they also pointed out issues like frame rate inconsistencies and aliasing problems that detract from the overall experience. Vandal noted that while the game showcases notable graphical performance, it experiences occasional stutters and texture issues. Additionally, COGconnected mentioned that some graphics appear dated, resembling older console capabilities, which may affect the immersion for some players. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess delivers a visually stunning experience that effectively captures the essence of its feudal Japanese setting. Many reviewers, including VG247 and TechRadar Gaming, highlighted the game's ability to blend traditional aesthetics with modern design elements, creating a unique and engaging visual style. The majority of critics agree that the art direction is one of the game's standout features, making it one of Capcom's most visually impressive titles to date. Overall, the positive reception of the graphics and visual design underscores the game's artistic achievements, even as some technical limitations are acknowledged.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess impresses with its stunning sound design and music, blending serene melodies and dynamic compositions that enhance gameplay. Critics praise its immersive soundtrack, with a mix of traditional and modern Japanese styles elevating combat and exploration. However, some note limitations in variety and issues with the DualSense speaker, alongside mixed reviews on the English voice track. Overall, the audio experience is deemed a standout feature that enriches the game's atmosphere despite minor shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

81%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

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 received largely positive feedback from critics, highlighting a harmonious blend of serene melodies and dynamic compositions that enhance the gaming experience. Eurogamer Germany appreciates the Zen-like quality of the music, which complements the gameplay, especially during tense battles against the Damned. Similarly, GamesHub lauds the "absolutely stunning musical score" that enriches the audio-visual experience, while PC Invasion notes the enjoyable auditory experience provided by a variety of Japanese musical styles, from fast-paced jams to peaceful village tunes. Critics like COGconnected and Metro GameCentral emphasize the soundtrack's ability to build tension during combat, showcasing gorgeous orchestrations and varied styles that include traditional Japanese music alongside modern genres. The overall sentiment is that the music significantly contributes to the immersion and atmosphere of the game. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critics pointed out limitations in the sound design. Siliconera mentioned that while the music is beautiful, it is somewhat limited, potentially leaving players wanting more variety. Push Square noted a downside in the "obnoxiously constant use" of the DualSense controller's speaker, which detracted from the overall auditory experience. Additionally, while the English voice track received criticism from Nintendo Life, the option to switch to Japanese voice acting was seen as a redeeming feature, suggesting that the localization could have been handled better. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess excels in its sound design and music, with the majority praising it as a standout element of the game. The soundtrack is described as immersive and culturally authentic, effectively complementing both the peaceful and intense moments of gameplay. Critics like GameGrin and TechRadar Gaming highlight how the tranquil music and traditional instruments enhance the overall experience, while Cubed3 and Worth Playing point to the excellent sound design that supports character and enemy interactions. Despite a few criticisms regarding limitations and localization, the general agreement is that the game's audio landscape significantly elevates the player's journey through its richly crafted world.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess showcases innovative storytelling with minimal voice acting, praised for its wordless interactions and character gestures. Critics appreciate the option for a Japanese voice track but largely criticize the English voice acting as "woeful" and lacking depth. The game’s reliance on action over dialogue leads to a mixed reception, leaving some players craving a richer auditory experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

83%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The opinions regarding the voice acting in Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess reveal some positive aspects that critics have noted. For instance, TechRadar Gaming highlights the game's effective use of wordless interactions and soothing narration, suggesting that the relationship between characters is conveyed through gestures and choreographed dance. This approach is praised for showcasing strong character presentation, indicating that the developers have crafted a unique storytelling method that relies less on traditional voice acting. Additionally, the option to switch to the Japanese voice track, as mentioned by Nintendo Life, is seen as a positive feature, allowing players to experience the game in a way that may resonate better with the game's aesthetic. However, several critics have pointed out significant shortcomings in the voice acting. But Why Tho? explicitly states that the voice acting is lacking, while GameGrin mentions that the game relies heavily on character interactions and movements, indicating a clear absence of substantial vocal performances. Final Weapon also notes that voice acting is minimal, with only a few lines from a character named Yoshiro, which may leave players desiring more depth in character dialogue. Furthermore, Nintendo Life describes the English voice track as "woeful," suggesting that the localization may not have met expectations, which could detract from the overall experience for English-speaking players. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess employs an innovative storytelling approach that minimizes the reliance on voice acting, this decision has resulted in a mixed reception. Critics like Worth Playing acknowledge that while voice acting is present, it is limited and often overshadowed by the game's focus on actions rather than dialogue. The general sentiment is that although the game offers some unique features, the minimal and sometimes subpar voice acting may leave players wanting more, particularly those who prefer a richer auditory experience in their gaming narrative.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess shines with strong performance on PC and Nintendo Switch 2, earning high praise for smooth gameplay and impressive visual features. Critics highlight the optimized PC port and solid frame rates on Switch, though the PS5 version suffers from a poorly designed UI and minor graphical issues. Some performance dips on Switch during intense scenes raise concerns, but overall, the game delivers a commendable experience across platforms—meeting or exceeding expectations for a double-A title.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech 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 technical performance.

The technical performance of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess has garnered generally positive feedback across various platforms, particularly on PC and the Nintendo Switch 2. Critics like Eurogamer Germany and GamesHub praised the game for its smooth performance on the Steam Deck, achieving 40 frames per second even at lower settings. Wccftech highlighted the well-optimized PC port, noting features like DLSS and ray tracing that enhance the visual experience on high-end hardware. On the Nintendo Switch 2, several reviewers, including Nintendo Life and NintendoWorldReport, reported impressive performance, with the game running beautifully in both docked and handheld modes, and maintaining solid frame rates. However, there are notable negatives that critics have pointed out. On the PS5, Metro GameCentral criticized the UI design, particularly the selection screen for villagers, labeling it as one of the worst seen in years. PlaySense acknowledged minor graphical pop-in issues and blur during camera movements, which detracted from the overall experience. On the Nintendo Switch 2, while many reviews were positive, there were mentions of inconsistent frame rates during battles and storms, as noted by Cubed3 and Hobby Consolas, indicating that performance can vary under certain conditions. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess delivers a commendable technical performance across platforms, with PC and Nintendo Switch 2 receiving the most accolades. While the game excels in optimization and stability on PC, the PS5 version suffers from UI issues, and the Switch 2 has some inconsistencies that could affect gameplay during intense moments. Despite these drawbacks, the majority of critics agree that the game performs well overall, with most platforms providing a solid experience that meets or exceeds expectations for a double-A production.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess boasts strong replay value thanks to its New Game+ mode and diverse gameplay mechanics, enticing players to explore further. Critics praise its strategic depth and hidden challenges, providing ample reasons to replay. However, some find the gameplay can become tedious and grindy, particularly for completionists, which might dampen the overall experience. In short, the game's replay appeal is solid but varies based on personal tolerance for repetition.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

41%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

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 the various features that encourage players to return to the game. Eurogamer Germany notes the inclusion of a New Game+ mode, which allows players to carry over progress and explore the game further. Similarly, GamesHub emphasizes the methodical and experimental gameplay, offering hidden treasures and challenges that invite players to revisit levels. Critics like CGMagazine and COGconnected also praise the strategic depth and variety of units and skills, which enhance the replayability and provide multiple goals and rewards, ensuring that players have ample reasons to engage with the game beyond their initial playthrough. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the replay value that suggest it may not be as robust as some players would hope. Several reviewers, including SpazioGames and Pure Nintendo, point out that the game can feel tedious and repetitive at times, especially for those aiming for completionist objectives. Critics like GameGrin and PlaySense also mention that while the gameplay becomes more engaging as it progresses, certain elements, such as base rebuilding, may feel unfulfilling or artificially extend the gameplay experience. This sentiment is echoed by Loot Level Chill, who describes the need for multiple playthroughs to unlock all objectives as potentially grindy, which could deter some players from fully engaging with the game's replay features. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess offers a solid replay value, bolstered by its New Game+ mode, varied gameplay mechanics, and strategic depth. Critics like Wccftech and Nintendo Life highlight the multiple reasons to revisit levels, including collectibles and optional objectives, which enhance the game's longevity. However, the repetitive nature of certain gameplay elements and the grind required for completionism may temper the enthusiasm for some players. Ultimately, while the game presents a wealth of content and opportunities for exploration, the experience may vary significantly based on individual player preferences and tolerance for repetition.

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 surrounding Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its unique blend of genres and visually stunning presentation. Reviewers like Digitally Downloaded highlight the game's authentic interpretation of Kagura, while Eurogamer Germany describes it as a captivating experience that successfully merges tower defense with sword combat. Critics such as GamesHub and PCGamesN commend the engaging gameplay and the game's ability to stand out in a crowded market, with Siliconera referring to it as an invigorating take on the tower-defense genre. The game's art style and music have also received accolades, contributing to its appeal as a refreshing title that offers something different from mainstream gaming trends. However, the game is not without its shortcomings. Many critics point out issues with the narrative depth, with SpazioGames noting a lack of strong storytelling and Wccftech mentioning a shallow narrative as a minor issue. Some reviewers, like COGconnected and Metro GameCentral, express concerns about the basic combat mechanics and underdeveloped strategy elements, suggesting that while the game excels in certain areas, it falls short in others. Additionally, the game’s difficulty curve has been criticized for being too forgiving, which may undermine the overall challenge for players seeking a more intense experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is a unique and visually appealing title that successfully blends action and strategy elements, making it a worthwhile experience for many players. While there are notable criticisms regarding its narrative depth and combat mechanics, the game's innovative gameplay and artistic design have led many reviewers, such as TechRadar Gaming and Inverse, to regard it as a memorable addition to Capcom's portfolio. Overall, it is seen as a game that, despite its flaws, offers a refreshing departure from traditional gaming experiences and is worth exploring for those interested in its unique approach.

TL;DR

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess garners predominantly positive reviews for its striking visuals and innovative blend of genres, particularly praised for its unique take on Kagura and captivating gameplay that fuses tower defense with sword combat. Critics celebrate its artistic and musical elements, marking it as a refreshing alternative in a saturated market. However, it faces criticism for shallow storytelling, basic combat mechanics, and a forgiving difficulty curve, which some feel undermine its potential. Despite these flaws, critics agree it’s a standout title worth exploring for its distinct approach and engaging experience.

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.

Nintendojo

Jul 9, 2025

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

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is praised for its unique amalgamation of gameplay elements and culturally rich story, making it a worthwhile experience for players seeking something different.

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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