The Wild Robot, based on Peter Brown’s beloved novel, tells the story of Roz, a robot who is stranded on a remote island and must learn to survive, adapt, and eventually coexist with the animals in her new environment. The storyline is rich with themes of nature versus technology, survival, and adaptation — perfect fodder for a possible video game, though there is no rumor or confirmation of such an adaptation at the moment.

Nonetheless, a game based on this theme could explore a mix of platforming, exploration, and puzzle-solving, and would allow its players to experience Roz’s journey firsthand. That said, it would face stiff competition, especially from well-established titles like Astro Bot. Indeed, Astro Bot has set a high bar in the platforming genre with its immersive gameplay mechanics and innovative themes. Despite that, there’s room for The Wild Robot to make a name for itself.

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Astro Bot fans will gain access to five more DLC stages over the coming weeks, with new levels arriving weekly between February 13 and March 13.

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Elements That Would Make The Wild Robot a Great Game

The Wild Robot’s franchise potential and emotional depth are two of its strengths. A game adaptation could weave a similar narrative where Roz learns to care for the animals, while also struggling with her identity as a machine. The emotional growth of Roz, coupled with her interactions with various island creatures, could translate into a character- or atmosphere-driven experience that draws players in, much like Stray or Journey.

Such a hypothetical game could also offer a blend of survival mechanics — gathering resources, repairing parts of Roz, building shelters or gadgets, environmental puzzles such as navigating hazardous terrain, using animal allies to solve problems, or adapting to the changing weather. Gameplay could also include combat avoidance, making stealth or creative solutions a core mechanic.

The Video Game Could Feature a Stunning Environment and Aesthetic

The Wild Robot is set on a lush, vibrant island, and that would help create breathtaking landscapes like dense forests and rocky shores. The game could leverage the latest graphics engines to create immersive, dynamic environments. Changing seasons and weather would also help make it a standout feature, impacting how Roz interacts with the world around her.

Another possible inspiration for The Wild Robot as a video game could come from Netflix’s Love, Death, & Robots series, which presents multiple captivating robot-centric stories set in imaginative environments.

A Wild Robot Game Would Have Stiff Competition But Could Still Succeed

Astro Bot sets a high standard for platforming games, offering tight controls, inventive level design, and excellent use of new gaming hardware. The Astro Bot franchise has mastered the balance of fun, challenge, and charm, making it a hard act to follow. Any new game, especially one that might share similar platforming mechanics, would need to be innovative to stand out in this crowded space.

Beyond Astro Bot, The Wild Robot would face stiff competition from other narrative-driven games like Ori and the Will of the Wisps, which has stunning visuals, challenging platforming, and an emotional core. Above all else, both The Wild Robot and Astro Bot tug on heartstrings with adorable robot protagonists.

Games like Stray (where players control a cat in a dystopian world) also highlight the trend of unique indie games becoming critical hits. However, by steering away from purely whimsical platforming and diving into more grounded survival elements, a possible Wild Robot game could offer players something fresh. If it was to embrace the story's emotional depth and pair it with innovative gameplay mechanics, like adaptive AI for animals, dynamic environments, or a robust crafting system, it could still create a memorable experience.

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Top Critic Avg: 95 /100 Critics Rec: 99%
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Released
September 6, 2024
ESRB
E10+ For Everyone 10+ Due To Crude Humor, Fantasy Violence
Developer(s)
Team Asobi
Publisher(s)
Sony Interactive Entertainment
Engine
Proprietary Engine
Franchise
Astro Bot
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WHERE TO PLAY

DIGITAL
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Platform(s)
PlayStation 5
Genre(s)
Platformer
PS Plus Availability
N/A
OpenCritic Rating
Mighty
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