Woodo Reviews
It’s a short, beautiful game, both visually and narratively, filled with adorable characters and stunning dioramas that are incredibly satisfying to piece back together.
There’s enough heart and sincerity in Woodo it’s hard to get too annoyed about a well-meaning puzzle game, though.
By combining different facets of an assortment of peaceful activities - colouring-in, jigsaw-puzzling, Lego-building and more - Woodo hits on a formula for pure relaxation. Its gorgeous presentation, both graphics and sound, makes it irresistible to interact with.There's a lot of repetition involved in getting into the zone, and sometimes I wished the storytelling would get out of the way and lean into the unspoken feelings that the dioramas convey without a voiceover. However, none of that was enough to snap me out of its cosy spell.
I guess that's the thing about games and art more generally, such works can hit you when you least expect it but most need it. Certainly in this sense, Woodo is a precious and touching labour of love that hopes to pay it forward. From a purely mechanical perspective Woodo is not especially innovative and certainly not at all challenging, but it is enormously relaxing, weapons-grade adorable and potent enough in its role as a distraction from all of the awful spectrums of crap going on in the world, that it is precisely the sort of salve that I need at this time in my life. Maybe it will be the same for you too right now and if not, Woodo will assuredly, yet quietly, earn its place at some later point in your lifetime when you need it most, like a toy from a forgotten youth left in a cupboard that you rediscover years later.
Woodo is a storybook puzzle game that aims to be as comfortable as a good flannel on a chill autumn day. And it succeeds. It also ends before the puzzle dynamic wears out its welcome, and will elicit enough smiles to keep cozy game fans entertained throughout.
Chill and cozy 3D puzzle game in which you'll bring a world back to life with wooden figurines and pieces
Recommended for players looking for a relaxing puzzle game with charming wooden worlds and a satisfying jigsaw-like progression
Woodo is an absolutely incredible game that'll make you appreciate life's little moments as you literally piece together memories and learn to love those around you even when you have your reservations at first. It's such a beautiful game and in so many special ways. 🦊
Woodo is a simple game of putting together a puzzle, but the story gives you a feeling of discovery. You are watching a young fox learn to take in the moment, live without a constant wifi connection, and adventure out into the world around them. If you enjoy a slow-paced game, this is a must-play.
I don't know if I can recommend the game. It’s beautiful, and the music is charming—catchy and relaxing [...] But all things considered—due to how fast-paced it is and the control issues—I ultimately feel hesitant to recommend it, unfortunately, even though it is so visually polished.
Review in Portuguese | Read full review
Despite all my complaints, I did enjoy the game, especially the latter chapters when I was much less frustrated. However, I would suggest anyone that is interested in this game to try the demo on the Switch or Steam to see if you have the same problems. The cosy space is incredibly crowded and I applaud them for trying to do something unique, but I don’t think it’s enough. Unlike other cosy games, I didn’t find the pull to play with Woodo like I did with others. Had it not been for this review, I probably wouldn’t have bothered playing it again after the first chapter. I’m hoping that they use experience to improve their next game.
I loved the art style and relaxing nature of Woodo and had a great time playing a level at a time. I wish that Woodo was supported on the ROG Ally as it would be an ideal game to take on the go and play on vacation or towards the end of the day. If you are looking for a puzzle game for a younger gamer or a relaxing game to play for a few hours, Woodo is a fantastic option.
Woodo is a charming, pressure-free cozy puzzler that brings its wooden dioramas to life with lovely details, varied levels, relaxing music and a sweet story.
Review in German | Read full review
Woodo is a charming and polished cozy puzzle game that turns the simple act of placing wooden pieces into a relaxing, tactile experience.
Woodo isn't a traditional adventure game; it's an experience that stays with you long after you close the game.
Review in Spanish | Read full review
Woodo is an incredibly relaxing addition to the cozy game genre. I found myself coming home from work and spending 30 minutes winding down with this game. My brain stayed active during the puzzle elements of this game, while the music and cute dioramas kept that relaxing vibe going. The team at Tiny Monks Tale have delivered a solid game that stands out amongst the crowded cozy game genre. The game is really ideal for any age, kids will love the characters and the Pixar-Dreamworks like animation will hold their attention. While the puzzle elements may stump them a little at times, it can be played alone or with other people in the room helping point out the obvious pieces that you missed. It’s a perfect cozy puzzler you can easily get lost in for many hours.
Woodo is an excellent game for anyone looking for a relaxing experience that also offers plenty of satisfaction. Its constant ability to reinvent itself and the wealth of details in every level further contribute to making it a game that is definitely worth playing.
Review in Italian | Read full review
There are a lot of cosy gamers who will love Woodo but unfortunately it never quite clicked into place for me.
While its construction and play are relatively simple, cozy, and satisfying, I also appreciate some smart design that shows an earnest effort on the part of the developers
Overall, despite some control issues and uneven pacing, Woodo is still a title I can largely recommend to players who want a few hours of calming escapism with some stunning visuals, a gentle plot, and meditative gameplay. While perhaps the result is very much style over substance, that style is so warm and inviting it’s easy to overlook a few flaws and simplistic gameplay, at least for its short runtime.