Cult of the Lamb: Woolhaven - A Woolly Wonderland of Wacky Worship

When your cult needs a winter coat and a marriage counselor

Launch Day Larry

Welcome back, fellow cultists, to the delightfully dark and whimsically woolly world of “Cult of the Lamb: Woolhaven.” This DLC takes the already charmingly sinister base game and wraps it in a cozy winter theme, complete with new mechanics, expanded town-building, and enough content to make even the most devout follower of the Lamb bleat with joy. But does this expansion deliver a divine experience, or does it leave us out in the cold? Let’s dive in and find out.

Gameplay: A Fleece of New Features

In “Woolhaven,” the gameplay is as engaging as ever, with a plethora of new mechanics that seamlessly integrate into the existing framework. The town-building aspect has been expanded with new follower forms, buildings, and even farm animals, adding layers of depth that would make “Animal Crossing” blush. The winter theme introduces a strategic challenge, requiring players to keep their followers warm, which is a refreshing twist for those who have already conquered the base game.

The DLC doubles the content of the original game, offering new dungeons, weapons, and curses that enhance the experience. The bosses are challenging, and the new areas and tarot cards add a delightful twist to the gameplay. Plus, the ability to marry two followers adds a new dynamic, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of cultish matchmaking. However, some players have reported technical issues, such as input delay and game crashes, particularly on platforms like Steam Deck and PS5. While these bugs can be frustrating, they don’t overshadow the overall enjoyment and satisfaction expressed by the majority of players.

Graphics: A Visual Feast with a Side of Stutter

The graphics in “Woolhaven” are a mixed bag, with both praise and criticism evident in the reviews. The unique art style contributes to a distinct atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience. The environments, especially in the Woolhaven update, are described as “stunning” and “visually stunning,” crafted with great attention to detail. However, performance issues such as stuttering and lag, even on high-end systems like the PS5, can detract from the visual experience.

When the game runs smoothly, the graphics are described as meeting expectations, delivering visually impressive experiences. The design of wolves and pet goats receives positive feedback, indicating that certain aspects of the game’s graphics are well-executed and appreciated. However, users have reported issues with graphic settings, such as input delay, which were resolved by adjusting the settings, highlighting the importance of proper configuration for optimal performance.

Story: A Tale of Wool and Wonder

The narrative of “Cult of the Lamb: Woolhaven” continues the unique storytelling style of its predecessor, blending humor, cartoonish violence, and emotional depth. The story delves into the mysterious past of the Lamb, exploring the fate of other Lambs, a question that has intrigued players since the original game. Set in Woolhaven, the story intricately connects the Lamb’s past and future, allowing players to encounter familiar faces and uncover secrets crucial to saving the future.

The introduction of a new god and encounters with characters from the Lamb’s past add depth to the story, described as a “beautiful tapestry.” While some players find the narrative too short, the storytelling is enhanced by new gameplay elements, including follower forms, rituals, and quests. Emotional encounters and humor remain staples of the series, though some players have encountered bugs, such as soft locks during animations, which slightly detract from the experience.

Final Verdict

“Cult of the Lamb: Woolhaven” is a must-have for fans of the base game, offering more of the enjoyable gameplay with added challenges and content. While some players note that the DLC might be slightly pricey, it is still deemed worth it for those who enjoyed the original game. The engaging gameplay, unique art style, and immersive story make it a significant enhancement to the Cult of the Lamb universe. Despite some technical issues, the DLC is praised for its story enhancements, encouraging players to explore the new content for a richer narrative experience.

Score: 8.0/10