Shape of the World

What started out as a Kickstarter three years ago, Shape of the World is an impressive accomplishment.

Shape of the World is a very different offering on the Switch's eShop, and one that we are glad to have experienced despite its shortcomings. Describing it as a video game doesn't feel quite right; it's more of an interactive playground that lets you take a couple of hours out, switch off, and be treated to some thought-provoking aesthetics along the way. It's definitely not for everyone, and it's all over a little too quickly, but Shape of the World is a nicely put together piece of art that deserves the attention of those most intrigued.

Yes, you can interact with some of the animals in minor ways and use trees to give yourself a burst of forward momentum. Yes, you can throw seeds down to create trees. Yes, you can create bridges and wander around a handful of different biomes while the scenery grows around you. Without a goal driving you, however, this carries the same amount of weight as being lost in a supermarket.

Shape of the World is a strage game. It looks great, but it's still a walking simulator that lacks almost any gameplay features.

Shape of the World is an interesting release that is almost more of an experience and not what you'd expect or are used to playing when you hear the word video game. Some of you might call this a walking simulator, which is not that far off, but the way the game is presented and how the music complements the experience, shifting as new shapes and colors come into play, makes this one a game you have to try.

I notice a lot of lost potential here, be it a potential to expand this lovely world, or a potential to add compelling gameplay elements. Shape of the World is, ultimately, a pretty shell: gorgeous on the outside, but hollow on the inside.

A weird title. It's not an overwhelmingly good walking simulator, it's not an outrageously bad exploration game, it's just... there.

Shape of The World is exactly what I was expecting: a fun and relaxing exploration game with a soothing soundtrack and a charming art style presented with a nice pallet of colors that invite you to stay in this adventure from start to finish. After waiting for the game for a while, I can certainly say that the wait has been worth it.

Overall, Shape of the World provides a relaxing virtual playground for players wishing to create their own world. Gorgeous visuals and soothing ambiance make the game perfect for those wishing to kick back and relax with an incredibly chill explorer simulator. Being able to construct worlds with a variety of seeds gives players a reason to explore each area and come back for more. Multiple levels with their own flora and fauna give players new sights to explore. While walking can be slow at times and some visuals actually hinder progress, Shape of the World makes up for these shortcomings in a memorable sandbox experience that's perfect for casual play.

Shape of The World offers a good selection of 10 hours or more gameplay and with procedurally generated areas every experience is different. I would definitely recommend a headphone experience to get the best out of its soothing soundtrack and beautiful colour livening areas.