When Graphics Can’t Save the Game: The Case of Hirogami

We’ve all seen it before — a new game drops with stunning trailers, eye-popping screenshots, and a promise of “next-level visuals.” For a while, the hype machine convinces us that we’re about to play something groundbreaking. But then reality sets in: the game looks great, but actually playing it feels like a chore. Hirogami is the latest reminder that beautiful graphics can’t cover for tedious, uninspired gameplay.

A Visual Showcase With No Momentum

There’s no denying Hirogami is gorgeous. Its hand-painted backgrounds and delicate lighting make every screenshot look like it belongs in an artbook. It’s the kind of game you’d show off to demonstrate how far artistry in gaming has come. But the moment you start playing, the shine wears off. The platforming — the supposed heart of the experience — is slow, clunky, and painfully repetitive.

The Problem With “Style Over Substance”

This isn’t just a Hirogami problem; it’s part of a growing trend. Developers sometimes lean so heavily on aesthetics that they forget gameplay is what keeps players invested. We’ve seen titles like Ori and the Blind Forest or Celeste balance gorgeous visuals with tight, rewarding platforming. The difference? Those games respect the player’s time. They challenge without dragging, reward without padding. Hirogami falls into the trap of thinking looks are enough to make players push through uninspired mechanics.

Why It Matters

Graphics can draw you in, but gameplay is what keeps you playing. A game like Hirogami becomes a cautionary tale: no matter how polished the visuals, players will eventually notice if the core experience is hollow. And when they do, the pretty presentation feels less like an achievement and more like a distraction.

Final Thoughts

Hirogami could have been a breakout hit if its platforming matched the ambition of its art direction. Instead, it joins a list of titles that remind us: graphics can enhance a game, but they’ll never replace fun, meaningful design. If developers want players to stay invested, substance has to come before style.