Summary
Following a successful global launch,Wuthering Wavesby Kuro Games has captivated players with its intricate combat system, breathtaking visuals, and immersive storyline. With over 30 million players pre-registered before the game debuted on May 22,Wuthering Waveshas become a massive hit. As a freshly-released free-to-play RPG with a constant feedback loop from the developers, it’s easy to see why the game is topping the charts.
Notably, as an open-world gacha, comparisons to similar games likeGenshin ImpactandHonkai: Star Railare all but inevitable. Despite sharing some features with these games,Wuthering Wavesis already carving out a distinct identity for itself through its darker narrative and emphasis on combat. Going forth, if done properly, Kuro Games may already have an ace up its sleeve when it comes to the game’s lore and post-apocalyptic setting.
Wuthering Waves Is Diving into Darker Waters with A More Mature Story
The Narrative Behind Solaris-3 Is Already A Strong Start
Fresh off its release,Wuthering Wavesaims to engross players in unraveling the mysteries of Solaris-3, a post-apocalyptic wasteland ravaged by a cataclysmic event known as The Lament. This event unleashed a wave of anomalies that not only wiped out a large portion of humanity but also brought monstrous beings known as Tacet Discords into existence. At the start of the game, players take on the role of Rover, an amnesiac awakening in this harsh environment. Left to piece together the past, they must alsouse resonance skillsto battle unknown beings while navigating through unfamiliar terrain.
Surprisingly, despite a gloomier storyline that feels similar toTower of Fantasy,Wuthering Wavesis far from a world consumed by shadows.Towns like Jinzhoucaptivate players with stunning architecture and vibrant landscapes, while the character designs themselves boast intricate details and beautiful color palettes. Due to this, it’s clear that Kuro Games has been able to weave an intriguing story without sacrificing any of the game’s visual splendor.
Kuro Games Should Lean Into Wuthering Waves' Futuristic Sci-Fi Setting
Unfortunately, the recent boom in the RPG gacha market over the past few years meansWuthering Wavesmay need to do more to truly stand out from the crowd. With established giants likeGenshin Impactcontinuing to dominate the scene and newcomers likeSolo Leveling: Ariseshattering player records, the competition seems fiercer than ever. To retain the retention of its player base, it may be helpful for the studio to continue playing heavily intothe dystopian story behind Solaris-3, though it’s already done a commendable job with its generous compensation for technical difficulties.
The core concept ofWuthering Wavesholds promise, but the game could benefit from further emphasis on The Lament and the sentient Tacet Discords. For instance, some of these mutant-like creatures, exemplified byAutopuppet Scouts, Traffic Illuminators, and Chaserazors, appear to be horrifying fusions of Solaris-3’s inhabitants with remnants of the city’s infrastructure like cars and traffic lights. Fan theories even suggest a darker origin for The Lament, speculating it might be the result of an alien invasion that triggered a planet-wide infection.
“The game could benefit from further emphasis on The Lament and the sentient Tacet Discords.”
Furthermore, while players have yet to unravel this part of the story, some speculate that Rover might be a soldier from a bygone era, sent into the future. ThoughWuthering Wavesis a post-apocalyptic setting, it is also very much a post-war story. As such, this theory gains traction considering Rover’s prowess in battle despite their memory loss.
Ultimately,Wuthering Waveshas a strong foundation with its unique enemy designs and the world’s intriguing backstory. By leaning more into these elements, Kuro Games could significantly enhance its player experience while separating itself from otherfree open-world games. Hopefully, as the game’s narrative unfolds, the studio will continue to emphasize its dystopian elements.
Wuthering Waves
WHERE TO PLAY
Welcome aboard, roving voyager.Upon the shores lay the silent embers of a world during the Ebb Tide.Desolated by the Lament, the erstwhile creations and earthly beings are left static.But they strike back, strong enough to penetrate the silence.Humanity has risen anew from the ashes of the apocalypse.And you, Rover, are poised for an adventure of Awakening.Companions to meet, enemies to conquer, new powers to gain, hidden truths to unveil, and unseen spectacles to behold… A vast world of endless possibilities awaits. The choice rests in your hands. Be the answer, be the leader, and follow the sounds to arrive at a new future.As Wuthering Waves echo endlessly, mankind set sail on a new journey.Rise and embark on your odyssey, Rover.
