The Eightfold Path is a pretty important concept in Buddhism. There is a lot more to it, but essentially life is suffering, and to escape suffering, you need to walk The Eightfold Path. The noble truth that life is suffering can apply to the game that bears its name. And the game, in fact, starts with that truth:
In the game the Eightfold Path, you play a monk, and your goal appears to be to meditate at eight statues to go through the path. I’m not sure though, because the game is heavy on the metaphysics, not telling you what exactly you’re supposed to be doing. You walk around and stand still to meditate. You can sprint with the X button for a few seconds until you get tired and need to wait until the sweat on your face disappears(a nice graphical touch). At times you’ll need to avoid enemies, which is often easier said than done, which this video will demonstrate:
Does that look fun? Does the Eightfold Path look interesting? You can’t die, you just go back to a checkpoint elsewhere. There are stone tablets you can read, that will kinda reveal stuff, but I’m not really sure what in some instances as they’re metaphysical sayings.
The blurb to the Eightfold Path says this:
To reach the ultimate state of pure bliss, you must navigate through the labyrinth of desires and suffering that obscures true harmony.
Nature, a steadfast companion on your journey, will guide you. Yet, the true challenge lies in confronting the fears and inner demons that dwell within you.
I’ll be honest, the Eightfold Path has an audience, and I’m not just talking about Buddhists. People might enjoy this “exploration adventure.” The blurb above obscures the fact you’ll be walking around avoiding ghosts and tigers, maybe even solve puzzles. Some people may like this. I did not. But I’m not about to completely trash the game. The Eightfold Path wasn’t made for me, and that’s perfectly fine. The games gets a Your Mileage May Vary with a six back-end score.
Overall: The Eightfold Path is a game about Buddhism, but that isn’t the problem. It’s the often unclear game play that’s the problem.
Verdict: Your Mileage May Vary
eShop Page
P.S. To see the Buddha in a different light, play Fight Of Gods.
Subscribe so you never miss a review:
