Lost Winds is my first and presently only WiiWare title, but it has already set the bar pretty high. When I first booted up this lovely little game and started playing with the wind, I was immediately put in mind of Okami. Directing the wind is a lot like drawing with the Celestial Brush, except the wind works in real time, rather than pausing the game while I draw. Lost Winds is a whimsical title and a promising start for WiiWare.
The game itself focuses on environmental puzzles and wind assisted two dimensional platforming. Toku, the main character, can only run and climb up small ledges. Luckily, he's a small boy and can easily be carried by Enril, the Wind Spirit. The wind is controlled via simple lines drawn with the remote's pointer. With easy gestures, I can use the wind to move Toku, flatten enemies, and knock the hero silly with boulders if I'm not careful. All of the action takes place in a beautifully realized world.
As an artist myself I take a keen interest in the art styles used in video games and I really like what's been done in Lost Winds. The visuals are colorful and fanciful without being sugary sweet. The geometric designs and story stills put me in mind of native South American art though I also note a lot of oriental influences in the setting. It's always nice to see an original style standing out from the current pack of games attempting realism. It's a standout title that has received quite a bit of appreciation from gamers.
Lost Winds has already garnered a lot of review praise along with one oft repeated criticism. It's too short. I disagree. The game thus far will only take a few hours, perfect for an evening of relaxed gaming. It's priced to match and ends with a “to be continued”. I've enjoyed what I've played thus far and am looking forward to the next chapter.