A new tale of the Kami awaits... Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess is a unique Japanese-inspired, single player Kagura Action Strategy game.
Players take control of the protagonist, Soh, who wields a sword and engages in fluid, dance-like combat against the hordes of supernatural enemies known as the Seethe. However, Soh is not the sole defender - players can also command and position various villager units, each with specialized roles like melee fighters, archers, and healers. This creates a strategic layer where players must thoughtfully deploy and coordinate their villager units to aid in fending off the enemy attacks, blending tower defense and action-oriented gameplay in a unique and satisfying way.
As players progress, they unlock the ability to upgrade the villager units and acquire new role types. This allows for a high degree of customization, as players can outfit their defensive force with the optimal mix of unit types to handle different enemy compositions and level challenges. Investing in upgrades and unlocking new villager roles becomes a core part of the gameplay loop, enabling players to fine-tune their strategies.
The gameplay is structured around a day/night cycle. During the day, players can explore the villages, gather resources, and prepare their defenses for the coming night. When night falls, the Seethe emerge, and players must switch to a more intense, real-time combat phase where they directly control Soh to fend off the enemy onslaught while coordinating their villager units. This cyclical structure creates an engaging rhythm, as players alternate between strategic preparation and dynamic action-oriented combat.
The game features a variety of level designs, each presenting distinct challenges that require players to adapt their strategies. Some levels may restrict the player's ability to directly engage in combat, forcing them to rely more heavily on their villager units. Others introduce environmental hazards or special enemy types that demand different tactical approaches, keeping the gameplay feeling fresh and encouraging players to experiment with various unit compositions and playstyles.
As Soh progresses, the protagonist gains access to a deep skill tree, unlocking a diverse array of powerful and visually striking attacks. The combat system features satisfying parry and counter-attack mechanics, allowing players to engage in a dance-like battle against the Seethe. The seamless integration of Soh's swordplay with the tower defense gameplay is a highlight of the experience.
The game's boss battles are particularly engaging and memorable. These encounters often require players to carefully coordinate their villager units and Soh's abilities to overcome the unique patterns and abilities of the powerful boss enemies. The boss battles are described as intense, satisfying tests of the player's strategic and action skills.