Ori Creator Teases Wild Concept for a Potential Third Game: “Imagine Katamari with a Ghibli Twist”

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Ori and the Blind Forest and Ori and the Will of the Wisps have already redefined the Metroidvania genre with their unique twists, but developer Moon Studios’ CEO Thomas Mahler has hinted at an even “crazier idea” for a potential third installment in this beloved series.

Mahler shared his vision on social media, inspired by a GameCube FMV tech demo called Rebirth, which follows a woodland creature as it explores a forest before transforming into a giant tree.

“I’ve always loved the idea of playing as a Spirit Tree, where the entire game revolves around guiding a small tree through a barren landscape, gradually bringing it back to life,” Mahler explained. “Imagine a mix of Katamari with a Ghibli twist. There’s something incredibly rewarding about allowing players to rejuvenate their environment rather than just enhancing their own abilities.”

He elaborated that the game could start in a desolate forest. In traditional Metroidvanias, players unlock abilities like double jumps or dashes to navigate gaps, but in this conceptual Ori sequel, players would restore the forest itself. For instance, repairing water flow could allow crossing ravines, or encouraging tree growth could create bridges, shifting the focus from personal power-ups to environmental empowerment.

“A lot of successful video games tap into fundamental human instincts,” Mahler noted. “Concepts like hunting, gathering, farming, and collecting resonate deeply. I believe the themes of farming and gardening haven’t been fully explored yet and could pave the way for a new genre that connects with the core of the human experience.”

Ori and the Blind Forest has sold around 10 million copies, likely making it the most successful Metroidvania ever, despite the developer facing potential bankruptcy during its creation.