Ōkami is one of those games that stays with you long after you have played it. You take on the role of Amaterasu, the Japanese sun goddess in the form of a white wolf, and alongside your tiny, loudmouthed companion Issun (who, by the way, gets far too excited whenever he sees a woman), you set out to restore life to the cursed land of Nippon. The game starts off slowly, but trust me, once you get past the first hour, the world opens up, and it becomes an unforgettable journey.
One of the best things about Ōkami is how it integrates Japanese mythology and culture into its world-building. Every NPC you meet has a unique personality and backstory, making the world feel alive. There is a sense of discovery in every corner, whether it is helping villagers, uncovering secrets, or reviving nature itself. And that is where the Celestial Brush comes in, a game mechanic that lets you interact with the world by literally painting on the screen. You can summon wind, cut down obstacles, fix broken bridges, and even make dead trees bloom again. It is one of the most satisfying gameplay mechanics I have ever experienced, and it ties beautifully into the game’s themes of restoration and rebirth.
Ōkami is also deeply rooted in environmental storytelling. The land of Nippon starts off lifeless and drained, thanks to Orochi’s curse, but as you progress, you see the world slowly come back to life. Feeding wild animals, making trees blossom, and purifying corrupted lands all reward you with Praise, which boosts Amaterasu’s abilities. It is one of the few games where doing good for the world directly benefits you. The final boss, Yami (which means “darkness”), represents human corruption and destruction, while Amaterasu’s final transformation, fuelled by the faith of the people, symbolises the triumph of light, nature, and harmony.
If you are a fan of Zelda games, Ōkami is probably the best Zelda-like experience you can get outside of the actual series. It has that same mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and action, but with its own unique spin. The sumi-e-inspired art style makes every frame feel like a moving painting, and it still looks beautiful today.
If you have not played Ōkami yet, do yourself a favour and pick it up. It is an unforgettable adventure that perfectly blends mythology, art, and gameplay into something truly special, all while beautifully highlighting the restoration of nature and the importance of balance in the world.