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

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 vibrant blend of Japanese folklore and gameplay, drawing from Shinto mythology and Kagura dance to create a visually rich experience. While the narrative follows warrior Soh and maiden Yoshiro's quest to rid sacred Kafuku mountain of evil spirits, critics argue that the story lacks depth and character development, often feeling like a mere backdrop for gameplay. Despite its cultural richness and engaging premise, many reviewers express disappointment over the shallow narrative and sparse dialogue, craving a more immersive storytelling experience that matches its artistic ambitions.

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 received praise for its unique cultural inspiration and the way it intertwines Japanese folklore with gameplay mechanics. Critics like Digitally Downloaded and PCGamesN highlight the game's roots in Shinto mythology and Kagura dance, emphasizing its authentic representation of these cultural elements. The narrative follows the journey of the warrior Soh and the maiden Yoshiro as they cleanse the sacred mountain Kafuku from evil spirits, a premise that many reviewers, including GamesHub and CGMagazine, found engaging and reflective of traditional Japanese storytelling. The game's approach to storytelling, particularly through visual cues and body language, has been noted by critics such as Inverse and TheSixthAxis, who appreciate the depth conveyed without relying heavily on dialogue. However, a significant number of critics have pointed out the story's shortcomings, particularly its lack of depth and character development. Reviews from But Why Tho? and Wccftech indicate that the narrative is relatively shallow, with minimal dialogue and character interactions that fail to create an emotional connection with players. Critics like SpazioGames and COGconnected echo this sentiment, noting that the story often feels like a mere vehicle for gameplay rather than a fully fleshed-out narrative experience. The reliance on brief cutscenes and mission-based structures, as mentioned by Cubed3 and Pure Nintendo, contributes to a sense of vagueness that leaves some players wanting more substance. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess offers a visually appealing and culturally rich experience, it falls short in delivering a compelling and immersive story. Many reviewers appreciate the unique premise and the integration of Japanese mythology but lament the lack of depth and character development that could have elevated the narrative. Critics like GameGrin and Nintendo Life suggest that the game could have explored its rich cultural backdrop more thoroughly, indicating a desire for a more profound storytelling experience that matches the game's artistic ambitions.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess impresses with its unique mix of tower defense, real-time strategy, and hack-and-slash gameplay, earning praise for its engaging mechanics and dynamic day-night cycle. Critics laud its strategic depth in managing villagers and combat, though some argue the strategic elements can feel simplistic and disrupt gameplay flow. Despite minor flaws, it emerges as a compelling title that effectively blends genres, appealing to a diverse audience.

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 garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who praise its unique blend of mechanics that incorporate tower defense, real-time strategy, and hack-and-slash elements. Reviewers from various outlets, such as Eurogamer Germany and PCGamesN, highlight the game's intricate yet accessible gameplay, which involves managing villagers, gathering resources, and engaging in strategic battles against foes. The day-night cycle adds depth, as players must prepare during the day and defend against threats at night, creating a dynamic gameplay loop that keeps players engaged. Critics like Digitally Downloaded and PC Invasion commend the game for its satisfying progression and the variety of roles available for villagers, enhancing the overall strategic experience. However, not all feedback is entirely positive. Some critics, including Metro GameCentral and Digital Chumps, express concerns about the depth of the strategic elements, describing them as simplistic or underdeveloped. While the gameplay is engaging, certain aspects—like the need to assign tasks to villagers during combat—can disrupt the flow and lead to moments of frustration. Additionally, some boss fights have been criticized for lacking strategic depth, which may detract from the overall experience for players seeking a more challenging encounter. This sentiment is echoed by critics like PlaySense and TechRadar Gaming, who note that while the game offers a fun balance of mechanics, certain missions may not fully capitalize on the strategic potential. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess delivers a compelling and enjoyable gameplay experience, with many praising its innovative combination of genres and engaging mechanics. The majority of reviewers found the gameplay to be very good, with highlights on the strategic management of villagers and the dynamic combat system. Critics such as CGMagazine and Nintendo Life emphasize the game's engaging loop and the necessity for strategic planning, while acknowledging some shortcomings in depth and complexity. Despite these minor criticisms, the game stands out as a well-crafted title that successfully merges action and strategy, appealing to a wide range of players.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess impresses with stunning visuals and artistic fidelity to feudal Japanese aesthetics, earning rave reviews for its captivating landscapes and character designs inspired by Yokai. Critics laud its vibrant color palette and immersive art style, likening it to Monster Hunter and Ghostwire Tokyo. However, some performance hiccups on the Nintendo Switch 2, including frame rate issues and a few dated graphics elements, have been noted. Despite these flaws, the game is hailed as a visually striking experience that successfully blends traditional and modern design, showcasing Capcom's artistic ambition and cultural authenticity.

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 visuals and artistic direction. Reviewers such as But Why Tho? and Digitally Downloaded highlighted the game's faithful representation of feudal Japanese aesthetics, emphasizing the attractive character designs and impressive monster designs inspired by Yokai and Japanese folklore. The use of the RE Engine has been commended for delivering captivating landscapes and detailed character models, as noted by Eurogamer Germany and Wccftech. Critics like PCGamesN and GamesHub also appreciated the vibrant color palettes and the immersive art style that enhances the player's experience, with several reviewers likening the visuals to those of renowned titles like Monster Hunter and Ghostwire Tokyo. However, not all feedback was entirely positive. Some critics pointed out limitations in graphical performance, especially on the Nintendo Switch 2. For example, Cubed3 and Hobby Consolas noted issues such as frame rate inconsistencies and aliasing problems, which detracted from the overall visual experience. Additionally, COGconnected mentioned that while the game features a unique visual style, it also showed signs of dated graphics that resembled older console generations. Critics like Push Square also noted a lack of environmental detail in certain areas, which could impact immersion despite the unique character models. Despite these criticisms, the consensus among reviewers is that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess excels in its visual presentation, successfully blending traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern design elements. The majority of critics agree that the game is visually striking, with many praising its ability to create a captivating atmosphere rooted in Japanese mythology. Critics such as TechRadar Gaming and VG247 highlighted the game's impressive art direction and detailed designs, labeling it as one of Capcom's most visually impressive titles. Overall, the game stands out for its artistic ambition and commitment to cultural authenticity, making it a visually rewarding experience for players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess shines with its acclaimed sound design and enchanting music that elevate the gameplay and immerse players in Japanese culture. Critics rave about its Zen-like scores and dynamic audio during battles, though some note a lack of variety and criticize the English voice track. Overall, the game's audio elements are pivotal to its standout experience, making it a must-play in its genre.

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 garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who highlight the game's enchanting auditory experience. Eurogamer Germany praises the serene and Zen-like music that enhances the gameplay, particularly noting how it swells during intense battles, adding tension and atmosphere. Similarly, GamesHub lauds the stunning musical score that elevates the audio-visual experience, while PC Invasion emphasizes the enjoyable mix of fast-paced jams, traditional music, and peaceful village tunes that complement the gameplay effectively. Critics like COGconnected and Metro GameCentral commend the gorgeous orchestrations and varied soundtrack, which seamlessly integrates traditional Japanese music with modern elements, enriching the overall experience and enhancing immersion. Despite the overwhelming praise, some criticisms do emerge. Siliconera mentions that while the music is beautiful, it is somewhat limited, which may leave players wanting more variety. Push Square points out the frequent use of the DualSense controller's speaker, which they found to be obnoxious, potentially detracting from the overall audio experience. Additionally, while the sound design is generally well-received, Nintendo Life notes that the English voice track has faced criticism, suggesting that the Japanese voice acting is more fitting for the game's atmosphere. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the sound design and music of Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess. Most reviewers, including those from Wccftech and PlaySense, agree that the soundtrack significantly enhances the atmospheric experience, effectively capturing the essence of Japanese culture and complementing both peaceful and intense moments in gameplay. With the majority of critics praising the game's audio elements, it is clear that the sound design and music play a pivotal role in making Kunitsu-Gami a standout title in its genre.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

TL;DR: Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess impresses with innovative storytelling through wordless interactions but faces heavy criticism for minimal and subpar voice acting. While some appreciate the creative visual techniques, the lackluster English voice track and reliance on gestures detract from the experience, leaving many players dissatisfied. The option for a Japanese voice track is a plus, but it doesn’t fully compensate for the game's vocal shortcomings.

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 voice acting in Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess has garnered some positive remarks from critics, particularly regarding its unique approach to storytelling. TechRadar Gaming highlights how the game effectively utilizes wordless interactions and soothing narration, allowing character relationships to shine through gestures and choreographed movements. This method is praised for its strong character presentation, suggesting that the game compensates for a lack of traditional voice acting with a creative visual storytelling style. Additionally, the option to switch to a Japanese voice track, noted by Nintendo Life, is seen as a positive feature, providing players with an alternative that may enhance their experience. However, the overall sentiment regarding the voice acting is predominantly negative. But Why Tho? and GameGrin both point out the lack of voice acting, indicating that the game relies heavily on character interactions and movements rather than dialogue. Final Weapon echoes this sentiment by stating that voice acting is minimal, with only a few lines from the character Yoshiro. Nintendo Life's description of the English voice track as "woeful" further emphasizes the dissatisfaction with the game's vocal performances. Worth Playing adds to this critique by noting that while the English voice track is adequate, it pales in comparison to the Japanese version. In summary, while some critics appreciate the innovative storytelling techniques employed in Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, the consensus leans towards disappointment in the voice acting aspect. The reliance on minimal dialogue and the mixed quality of the English voice track detracts from the overall experience for many players. Critics like But Why Tho? and GameGrin highlight this issue, suggesting that while the game may excel in visual storytelling, it falls short in delivering a compelling auditory experience. The availability of a Japanese voice track offers a glimmer of hope for those seeking a more immersive experience, but the overall execution of voice acting remains a significant drawback.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess receives mostly positive reviews for its technical performance across platforms. PC and Xbox Series X shine with smooth gameplay and excellent optimization. The Nintendo Switch 2 is praised for its performance, but some frame drops occur during intense scenes. However, the PlayStation 5 version faces criticism for UI issues and minor graphical glitches. Overall, while the game excels in many areas, there are notable shortcomings that need addressing.

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 across various gaming platforms has garnered a generally positive reception from critics. On PC, reviewers like Eurogamer Germany and GamesHub commend the game for its smooth performance on the Steam Deck, with frame rates reaching 40 FPS on low settings and no significant technical issues reported. Wccftech highlights the well-optimized PC port, which includes advanced features like DLSS and ray tracing, ensuring high-quality graphics on capable hardware. On the Xbox Series X, Cubed3 notes the absence of any performance concerns, suggesting a stable gameplay experience. The Nintendo Switch 2 also receives praise, with Nintendo Life and NintendoWorldReport stating that the game runs beautifully in both docked and handheld modes, maintaining impressive performance without noticeable frame drops. However, the technical performance is not without its drawbacks. On the PlayStation 5, reviewers like Metro GameCentral and PlaySense point out issues with the UI design and minor graphical pop-in problems, which detract from the overall experience. While PlaySense acknowledges stable frame rates, the presence of these issues raises concerns about the game's polish on this platform. For the Nintendo Switch 2, while many critics such as GameSpew and Loot Level Chill describe the performance as flawless, there are notable mentions of frame rate drops during intense scenes, as highlighted by Hobby Consolas and Vandal. This inconsistency can disrupt gameplay, particularly in action-heavy segments. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess delivers a commendable technical performance across most platforms, especially on PC and Xbox Series X, where stability and optimization shine. However, the PlayStation 5 version suffers from UI and graphical issues, while the Nintendo Switch 2, despite generally good performance, experiences occasional frame rate drops. The reviews reflect a mixed bag of experiences, with many praising the game’s technical achievements while also acknowledging the areas that require improvement.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess generally scores high on replayability, thanks to features like New Game+ and strategic depth that entice players to explore different playstyles. However, criticisms arise over tedious mechanics and repetitive gameplay, which could dampen long-term engagement. While it offers rich content for both veterans and newcomers, some elements may feel forced, potentially affecting its lasting appeal.

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 predominantly positive, with many critics highlighting various features that encourage players to revisit the game. Eurogamer Germany notes the inclusion of a New Game+ mode, which is echoed by Cubed3 and Worth Playing, suggesting that this feature significantly enhances replayability. Critics like GamesHub and PCGamesN appreciate the game's encouragement of methodical and experimental gameplay, with hidden treasures and varied enemy types providing ample reasons to explore different strategies. Additionally, CGMagazine and COGconnected emphasize the strategic depth and RPG elements that further enrich the gameplay experience, making it appealing for both seasoned gamers and newcomers. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's replay value. Several reviewers, including SpazioGames and PlaySense, mention that certain gameplay elements, such as base rebuilding and the grind required for completionists, can feel tedious and artificially elongate the experience. Critics like GameSpew and Nintendo Life also point out that while the game offers numerous incentives to replay levels, the gameplay can become repetitive over time, potentially diminishing long-term engagement. This sentiment is echoed by Pure Nintendo, who warns that the repetitive nature of gameplay could impact the overall replay value. In summary, while the consensus among critics is that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess offers a wealth of replayability through various modes, strategic depth, and unlockable content, there are concerns about repetitive gameplay and tedious mechanics that may deter some players. Critics like Noisy Pixel and GamingTrend recognize the potential for engaging replay experiences but caution that certain aspects might feel forced or unfulfilling. Overall, the game seems to strike a balance between providing enjoyable replay opportunities and facing challenges that could affect its longevity in a player's library.

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.

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who praise its unique blend of gameplay genres, stunning visuals, and engaging mechanics. Many reviewers, such as Digitally Downloaded and Eurogamer Germany, highlight the game's authentic interpretation of Japanese folklore and its captivating art style, which create an immersive experience. Critics from GamesHub and PCGamesN commend the game's refreshing gameplay that successfully merges action and tower defense elements, making it stand out in the crowded gaming landscape. The game's engaging soundtrack and polished presentation have also been noted, with Cubed3 and GAMES.CH emphasizing its memorable experience and artistic qualities. However, several critics have pointed out significant drawbacks that detract from the overall experience. A common critique is the game's shallow narrative, which is mentioned by Wccftech and SpazioGames, suggesting that while the gameplay is enjoyable, the story lacks depth and fails to engage players fully. Additionally, some reviewers, including But Why Tho? and COGconnected, have noted issues with the combat mechanics, describing them as basic or lacking in challenge. The difficulty curve has also been criticized, with some critics like Metro GameCentral and Digital Chumps mentioning that the gameplay can feel unbalanced, leaning too heavily towards action at the expense of strategic depth. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is a unique and ambitious title that offers a captivating experience, particularly for those interested in its innovative gameplay and aesthetic appeal. While there are notable flaws, such as a thin narrative and some gameplay imbalances, the game's strengths in visual design and genre-blending mechanics have led many reviewers to recommend it as an intriguing addition to Capcom's portfolio. Critics like Inverse and TechRadar Gaming encapsulate this sentiment, describing it as a potentially memorable title that, despite its shortcomings, deserves recognition for its creativity and execution.

TL;DR

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess impresses with its unique blend of genres, stunning visuals, and captivating gameplay rooted in Japanese folklore, earning praise from critics like Digitally Downloaded and Eurogamer Germany. However, it suffers from a shallow narrative and basic combat mechanics, with some gameplay imbalances highlighted by reviewers such as Wccftech and Metro GameCentral. Overall, it’s an ambitious title worth exploring for its creativity, despite its flaws.

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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