It’s an exciting time to be an Xbox fan as Level-5’s classic tale, Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch Remastered returns better than ever. The game has made its journey to Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Windows 10/11, and with Xbox Game Pass, PC Game Pass, and Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta) with improved graphics and performance! 

The 11^th anniversary of the game is coming up this November 17, but thanks to the incredible and stylized works of Studio Ghibli, Ni no Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch Remastered is an ageless RPG classic. This charming tale is further enhanced with music composed by the renowned Joe Hisaishi.

If you’ve come here today to read more, you’re probably like me and you’ve never played the game prior to its Game Pass debut but have heard about it over the years. Game Pass has finally given me the opportunity to discover how this game uses story and music to channel the charm, whimsy, and emotional resonance of Studio Ghibli films — all in an RPG package. (Warning: Some spoilers ahead!)

Oliver, the main protagonist, is a wizard. He’s got a magic wand, book, and familiars to call upon and aid him in battle. He journeys to the other world filled with magic, monsters, and things of myths. Early in the game, you’ll come across the Grimalkin (cat-person) kingdom of Ding Dong Dell ruled by “His Meowjesty” King Tom. In the kingdom of Ding Dong Dell, fish are heavily revered and are just about everywhere. The décor of fish spread to the walls, stairs, fixtures … and even spearheads.

This is where Oliver comes in to seek the assistance of King Tom for help in our epic quest. Unfortunately, the king’s pet has gone missing and you’ll need to find this literal and figurative red herring to gain his audience. As a player that tends to speed read and mashes ‘A’ to get through dialogue, this clever use of visual narratives immersed me in a way that only the special few do.

Renowned composer Joe Hisaishi’s score furthers your immersion in this other world. From the sweeping strings in your world map travels to the pompously booming horns of Ding Dong Dell, the cinematic score both reflects and amplifies the magic and adventure of the story, while remaining true to the protagonist’s innocent wonder.

Fans will find joy in how this game marries the whimsy of the Ghibli films with the immersive gameplay of RPGs in a world full of fantastical creatures, magical environments, and heart-warming storylines.

Ni no Kuni Remastered: Wrath of the White Witch Remastered is a masterfully executed RPG with unique storytelling concepts and is a shining star in the sea of games we have today. Play it today on Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Windows 10/11, and with Xbox Game Pass, PC Game Pass, and Xbox Cloud Gaming (Beta).