We Happy Few

We Happy Few’s focus on story over survival is a good choice, and at its best when dropping bombshells of truth that the drugged people of Wellington Wells have tried so hard to ignore. In its Early Access, I felt like wandering between procedurally-generated islands to stay alive wasted the intriguing setting and premise of its opening act.

For $60 I needed to see more quality, and instead became overloaded with quantity. Despite the game’s shortcomings, I am excited for the season pass, which promises to explore more characters and take a deeper dive into the world. Hopefully we’ll also be treated to a smattering of patches to add more polish to the experience. In its launch state, however, We Happy Few pleases the eyes and ears, but much like the fictional drug it features, the Joy is great… until it wears off.

We Happy Few is like a mix of some of the best games over the years to successfully marry combat, crafting, puzzle-solving, and narrative into one beautiful amalgam of curiosity. It has its more frustrating moments and predictable elements, but overall it's a polished and exciting prospect that isn't afraid to try new things. It isn't afraid to offer colorful accents out in the field instead of relegating players to the same browns and rusts.