Review: Stories: The Path of Destinies (Xbox One)

Stories: The Path of Destinies is an Action-RPG, an enchanted storybook filled with madcap fantasy tales, each told by a zippy narrator attuned to the player’s choices and actions.

Pros:

• Gorgeous graphics bring an almost Wind Waker vibe to the game.
• 3.2GB Download size.
• 1000 Gamerscore.
• Fully voiced narration throughout that is expertly delivered.
• Opening tutorial area.
• Easy to use controls.
• ARPG gameplay.
• The story allows you to pick your own route and select one of the options to take the story in a different direction.
• Enchanting OST.
• The story is a compelling one full of betrayal, Intrigue, and mystery. Has a heavy Star Wars influence to it all with nods to the films and lore.
• Solid combat system. Its the same style as Batman games by Rocksteady complete with counters.
• Earn exp to level up and spend upgrade points on stat boosts or new abilities.
• Combat has a combo counter system which increases your exp rewards in battle.
• Autosaves regularly with checkpoints scattered throughout the game.
• Use Altars to spend your upgrade points.
• Crafting can be done at wagon stands where you can upgrade your sword or craft a new elemental sword.
• Big levels to explore with multiple routes and secrets to find.
• Steam Achievements.
• Bright almost family-friendly atmosphere to it all.
• Swords: Many different elemental swords to craft, Acting as a key in certain doors, Swords also have unique abilities like fire or health boost.
• Gems: Rare but 3 can be equipped at a time and are powerful boosters for your character with buffs like increased loot find, Health boost or stronger attacks being just a few examples.
• Loot chests for crafting materials and health/stamina.
• Fight new enemies as you progress requiring more skill to kill.
• Charming fun little game.
• Once you finish your story line you get a conclusion, Then are put back at the begininng so you can select the other story route or maybe a new one has opened. Its a clever mechanic that makes the game a lot more interesting and involved.
• Keep all upgrades and items when you start over.
• Once a story route is completed you get a Truth. truth unlocks higher tier abilities.

Cons:

• Long loading times especially the initial one.
• The layout, especially in the first few hours, is very hand holdy. You can predict the layout of the levels and it all becomes a bit of the same formula over and over.
• Easy to miss chests/routes.
• You cannot backtrack or replay previous levels.
• The space between Altars is a big one meaning you can go a long way without being able to upgrade.
• Combat can feel a little unfair later on as you deal with a multitude of different enemies.
• Occasional frame rate drops.