Ori and the Blind Forest

Ori and the Blind Forest is Moon Studios' debut masterpiece — the Metroidvania that redefined expectations for what an indie game could achieve visually and emotionally. Playing as Ori, a white guardian spirit separated from the Spirit Tree in a darkening forest, the game is one of the most visually stunning games ever made: a hand-painted world of extraordinary depth and beauty where every frame looks like concept art brought to life. The opening sequence — an economical, wordless ten minutes that establishes the emotional stakes with devastating efficiency — remains one of the most affecting moments in game history. The movement system, particularly the Bash ability that lets Ori rocket off enemy projectiles to reach otherwise inaccessible platforms, is genuinely innovative. The Definitive Edition added new areas, abilities, and cutscenes that deepen the already rich experience. A landmark achievement in independent game development.