It pains me that Studio Ghibli hasn’t ventured properly into the world of gaming.
The acclaimed animation studio did team up with Professor Layton creator Level-5 to animate 2011’s Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch; it’s a shame Ghibli’s gaming efforts begin and end there.
If you want a Ghibli gaming fix, you’ll have to look towards projects inspired by the famous works we all know and love, from Spirited Away to My Neighbour Totoro.
Hotel Galactic, Kena: Bridge of Spirits, Planet of Lana, Spiritfarer, and Europa all spring to mind as great examples.
It looks as if another will soon land on the scene in the form of Seina: A Tale of Spirits.
Developed by Argyro Brotsi and set to be published by Pofupofu Studios, Seina: A Tale of Spirits was very recently unveiled in a gorgeous trailer.
It’s described as a “cosy fantasy adventure” that centres around Mika, “a young girl searching for her lost cat, Seina”.
“Her journey leads her into a peaceful, hand-painted world filled with cute animal spirits, ancient shrines, and quiet magic,” the synopsis reads.
A Single-Player Adventure Set In a Ghibli-esque Hand-Painted World
Seina: A Tale of Spirits will see Mika explore a forgotten, magical realm where you’ll “wander through ancient ruins, misty forests, and peaceful lakes”.
Along the way, players will encounter spirit animals who will seek out your help, offering small quests.
As you progress through the game, you’ll unearth that Seina actually has an important connection to this world, with the story revealing why she left.
There are hidden secrets to uncover, environmental puzzles to solve, and plenty of entertaining and charming characters to meet.
As mentioned above, this is a hand-painted world, and that perfectly captures the same kind of magic Ghibli infuses its films with.
There’s a “soft soundtrack that creates a sense of calm and wonder” too, so Seina: A Tale of Spirits sounds like a total treat to play.
“From funny and lighthearted moments to quiet scenes of reflection, Seina: A Tale of Spirits invites you to slow down, explore, and feel part of something magical.”
If I had to compare it to a Ghibli film, I’d definitely say there are elements of My Neighbour Totoro at play here; Mika has the same wonderment as Satsuki and Mei.
By the looks of it, Seina: A Tale of Spirits is currently only targeting a PC via Steam launch, and a release date has not yet been communicated.
If you do want to keep an eye on this charming cosy release, I’m sure the developers would appreciate you wishlisting the title.
That way, you’ll be notified about all future updates as Seina: A Tale of Spirits nears its eventual launch.
