Bō: Path of the Teal Lotus Set to Launch on July 18

Bō: Path of the Teal Lotus Set to Launch on July 18
Bō: Path of the Teal Lotus Set to Launch on July 18 (Image via: @PlayStation X Handle)

July 15, 2024 – “Bō: Path of the Teal Lotus,” a hand-drawn action platformer inspired by Japanese folklore, will be available for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC on July 18, 2024. The game, developed by Squid Shock Studios and published by Humble Games, features a vibrant 2.5D world full of mystical creatures and challenging gameplay.

In “Bō: Path of the Teal Lotus,” players control Bō, a fox tentaihana, a celestial blossom descended from the heavens. Bō’s journey involves mastering various acrobatic moves like bumping, pogoing, and gliding through beautifully drawn environments. The gameplay focuses on maintaining a flow of movement, with Bō using a shapeshifting earring that transforms into different forms, such as a Bo staff and a Bamboo Bat, to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies.

The game’s world is deeply rooted in Japanese mythology. Players will explore diverse locations like haunted castles and bustling metropolises, all while encountering a range of yokai and other supernatural beings. Each yokai has unique abilities and characteristics, adding depth to the game’s lore. Bō’s primary weapon, the Equinox Earring, offers various transformations that allow for creative combat strategies and exploration of previously inaccessible areas.

Bō’s journey is not just about combat. The game also emphasizes moments of tranquility, where players can take tea breaks at shrines to save their progress or replenish health during battles. These serene interludes provide a contrast to the intense action, allowing players to engage with the game’s rich narrative and character interactions.

A unique feature of “Bō: Path of the Teal Lotus” is the collection of Daruma Dolls, which serve as powerful allies in battle. These dolls can unleash devastating attacks when powered by Bō’s enchanted kettle, which fills up with each enemy strike. The game encourages players to experiment with different combinations of Daruma Dolls and Omamori, amulets that grant special abilities, to tailor their gameplay experience.

The game’s visual style is a standout feature, blending the aesthetics of traditional paintings, hand-drawn illustrations, and papercraft. This artistic approach, combined with a soundtrack that mixes traditional Japanese instruments with modern orchestral music, creates an immersive and enchanting experience.

The game’s narrative draws inspiration from various Japanese legends, including the tales of Princess Kaguya and Momotaro, as well as Chinese folklore like the story of Sun Wukong. This rich tapestry of cultural references adds layers of meaning and depth to Bō’s adventure, making it more than just a platformer but a journey through myth and legend.

“Each area in the game offers unique challenges and secrets,” says Chris, one of the game’s developers. “We wanted players to feel a sense of discovery and wonder as they navigate through Bō’s world, encountering familiar yet novel elements of folklore.”

The game promises to deliver an engaging and challenging experience for players of all skill levels. With its combination of fluid movement mechanics, intricate combat systems, and a captivating storyline, “Bō: Path of the Teal Lotus” is poised to be a memorable addition to the action-platformer genre.