Summary

An imaginative journey through a mystical world, Wik & the Fable of Souls (2004) remains a beloved title for its unique gameplay and enchanting story.

• Release Year: 2004
• Genres: Indie, Platform, Strategy
• Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox 360
• Developers: Reflexive Entertainment
• Publishers: Reflexive Entertainment

Introduction

Wik & the Fable of Souls is a captivating action-adventure game that debuted in 2004, inviting players into a richly imagined world.

Synopsis

The game’s protagonist is a frog-like creature named Wik2. Wik is not your typical hero; he uses a combination of jumping and his long, grapple-like tongue to navigate the world1. Accompanying Wik on his journey is a mule-like creature named Slotham1. On each level, the player must capture a set number of grubs and deliver them to Slotham1. However, getting the grubs to Slotham becomes more and more challenging through each chapter1. There are various bugs that try to steal the grubs or directly harm Wik, and on some levels, Wik can fall off the platforms into the abyss1.

Each level includes three gems; a ruby, an emerald, and a diamond1. Finding all of these throughout the course of the game is required in order to achieve the best ending1. The game is divided into 16 level sets of 8 levels each (or, on the Xbox 360 version, over 120 levels total)1. The game features a challenge mode which involves practicing acrobatics and other tricks used during normal gameplay1.

The roots of Wik began with what we at Reflexive call a “one-day-quick” prototype, where we regularly invest time in exploring new game ideas and mechanics by building a working, playable prototype3. The prototype in question was called “BugEater”, written by James C. Smith, and inspired by the arcade classic Missile Command3. In “BugEater” the player controls several gecko-like creatures stationed on a rock border down the left and right edges of the screen3. The object is to protect your grubs from thieving flying bugs by clicking on them causing your gecko to jump in a straight line across the screen and eat the offending bug thus freeing your grub3.

The game progresses in a stage-by-stage fashion4. Each stage is a self-contained 2D screen full of trees, moving platforms, and rock formations4. Your goal in each stage is to grab as many caterpillar-like Grubs as possible and feed them to Slotham, a hulking purple creature that lumbers along the bottom of each level4.

Characters

The protagonist, Wik, is notable for his distinctive abilities and charming design. The game features a variety of friends and foes, each adding depth to the story.

Gameplay

Gameplay revolves around puzzle-solving, platforming, and combat, with a focus on using Wik’s tongue to interact with the environment and overcome obstacles.

Conclusion

Wik & the Fable of Souls stands as a testament to creative game design, offering a memorable experience that combines engaging mechanics with a whimsical narrative.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Fan Art

Fan Art Style: Normal

Fan Art Style: Retro

Fan Art Style: Modern