ogamewire Planet of Lana Review

I'd like to begin by saying that it's been a while since I played Planet of Lana, but it's impossible not to bring back memories of this special experience. More than just playing, it was about feeling. It was about being carried away by a game that, from the very first minutes, showed that it wouldn't be just another game, but an instant classic, one that stays in your heart. Developed by Wishfully and published by Thunderful Games, the game immediately captivated me, with a moving story and a universe brimming with life and meaning. The plot is simple on the surface, but profound in its impact: all the inhabitants of Lana's village have been kidnapped by hostile robots, including her beloved sister. Driven by love and determination, Lana embarks on a perilous journey to rescue them. Along the way, she meets Mui, a lovable creature who becomes her inseparable companion. The relationship between Lana and Mui is uniquely tender. Together, they face puzzles, dangers, and enemies, striking a perfect balance between tension and affection. It's impossible not to be moved by the bonds that emerge from this friendship, which grow stronger with each challenge. Planet of Lana is one of those games that touches even the most sensitive: it makes you cry with both sadness and happiness. Each moment of the journey brings twists and turns that surprise, enchant, and tug at the heartstrings. The puzzles may feel repetitive at times, but they fulfill their role of engaging the player, demanding attention, patience, and reasoning. The game's sometimes slower pace doesn't hinder the experience—on the contrary, it gives space to absorb every detail of the carefully constructed world. The gameplay doesn't offer radical innovations, but that's a good thing. The focus is on the experience: platforming, stealth, and the creative use of Mui to reach locations or solve challenges. The game isn't easy, but it's not punishing either—there are moments when repetition becomes necessary, demanding precise timing, and that's precisely what makes it just the right amount of challenging. The hand-painted graphics are directly reminiscent of Studio Ghibli's works, with soft colors and palettes ranging from pastels to vibrant hues. Each setting is unique, designed to convey emotion and become part of the narrative. The art, animations, and details create a magical atmosphere, inviting the player to immerse themselves deeply in Lana's world. Even without voice acting, Planet of Lana manages to convey emotions perfectly. The sound design creates a universal language that touches you viscerally. And when it comes to the soundtrack, it's impossible not to get goosebumps: composed by Takeshi Furukawa (The Last Guardian), the music accompanies every step, every moment of tension and hope. The high point comes in the end credits, with the song performed by Siobhan Wilson – a conclusion so beautiful it brought tears to my eyes. In the end, Planet of Lana is much more than a game. It's a captivating, moving, and unforgettable experience. It may not reinvent the wheel in terms of mechanics, but it delivers something even rarer: a profound emotional impact that blends art, sound, narrative, and gameplay in perfect harmony.