Top 3 Games to Enjoy This Weekend

You can dive into Wanderstop on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. Your mission? Simply brew a decent cup of tea.

Now, why am I eagerly anticipating Wanderstop, the newest addition to gaming that’s all about “change and tea,” according to its Steam description? It has a lot to do with Ivy Road, the studio helming this project, which was co-founded by Davey Wreden. If that name stirs recognition, it should—Wreden is the mind behind The Stanley Parable and The Beginner’s Guide, games celebrated for their imaginative and unyielding creativity. At a glance, and based on the trailers, Wanderstop appears to be your typical “cozy game,” where you’re immersed in a soothing environment running a quaint tea shop. But given Wreden’s track record, I’m convinced there’s more here than meets the eye. I’m prepared for a surprise, eagerly awaiting that unexpected twist. It’s that moment of surprise and subverting expectations that I truly crave.

Another reason for my bubbling excitement is the gamut of reviews it’s already stirring. From moderate acclaim to exuberant endorsements, the feedback spectrum is broad. Now, I’ve deliberately avoided going down the review rabbit hole to keep my experience untainted by preconceived notions. Still, it’s evident that opinions are diverse, which I find refreshing. Far too often, gaming critiques fall into a predictable consensus, so when a game evokes divergent views, it usually signals it’s doing something intriguing.

This doesn’t guarantee Wanderstop will sweep me off my feet; it might not even tick all my boxes. Yet, I have a profound appreciation for experiences that strive for something unique, even if they don’t entirely succeed. That’s so much more captivating than a game that plays it safe yet excels. Who knows? I might end up absolutely loving Wanderstop. I’ll find out this weekend. But right now, there’s a certain magic to this moment—standing on the brink of a new gaming adventure, not knowing just what lies ahead. — Carolyn Petit