Firewatch

 PC
User Score
7.2

Mixed or average reviews- based on 1504 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 922 out of 1504
  2. Mixed: 361 out of 1504
  3. Negative: 221 out of 1504

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  1. FullyAlive24
    Apr 3, 2020
    8
    There's a good chance that this won't be the best game you'll ever play. It probably won't even reach the top ten list, but it is one of the most interesting indie game experiences recently available for PC and console.

    The game revolves around the life of a man who takes up a job that is typically known as deathly boring and uses it to form a story of in-depth relationships and trust.    There's a good chance that this won't be the best game you'll ever play. It probably won't even reach the top ten list, but it is one of the most interesting indie game experiences recently available for PC and console.

    The game revolves around the life of a man who takes up a job that is typically known as deathly boring and uses it to form a story of in-depth relationships and trust. This game is all about Henry and Delilah, and the way that they interact after their own personal lives go up in flames. How their relationship plays out is almost entirely up to you, and it makes the characters feel much different. You can stick to the life you ran away from, or try to seek a better one in the middle of the wild. It's all up to you.    … Expand
  2. mrmustard
    Mar 7, 2020
    0
    My experience with this **** game: Game starts out with a depressing intro, then after a short time my character bugged out and got stuck on a rock so I had to re-do the entire game. Made it to the same point and it happened again, so I uninstalled this **** game and wish I never wasted my money. What a joke, literally no idea who gave this crap positive ratings, very suss
  3. Xzenor
    Mar 4, 2020
    9
    I loved playing this game..
    The real power of Firewatch is in the conversations. I laughed a lot and it just seems so real. I totally dig the black sarcastic humor these 2 people have between eachother.
    The ending was a bit of a let down in my opinion but the rest of the story was just awesome and without a doubt worth playing. Don't expect some first person action game though.. it's a    I loved playing this game..
    The real power of Firewatch is in the conversations. I laughed a lot and it just seems so real. I totally dig the black sarcastic humor these 2 people have between eachother.

    The ending was a bit of a let down in my opinion but the rest of the story was just awesome and without a doubt worth playing. Don't expect some first person action game though.. it's a chill-out game without any real action.

    I loved it and I sure as hell recommend it.

    Oh and for anyone who cares, it has built-in Steam-Controller support which plays incredibly well    … Expand
  4. SelfPlayer123
    Feb 9, 2020
    9
    It's not a AAA game, but it sure has a god **** story man. All interactions between the characters are awesome. The game looks awesome, making the story actually feel real! It's smooth and runs like a charm. The only actual problem the game has is it's inconsistent and sometimes flat story, but for the majority is is just good.
  5. ALMAZ_and_GOLD
    Feb 3, 2020
    8
    Great atmospheric game with cool dialogue mechanics and soundtrack.........
  6. Tomicsavo
    Jan 31, 2020
    10
    Short but with good tone. Sometimes funny, sometimes shocking. I can recommend it at bargain prices.
  7. w0lf1
    Jan 26, 2020
    9
    Beautiful World and a heartwarming connection between Henry and Delilah. Overall one of the best Storys i Played since The Walking Dead
  8. ourendlesseason
    Dec 30, 2019
    6
    Aspetti visivi del gioco? Assolutamente eccellenti. Grafica, scenari e anche le voci dei protagonisti fanno da contorno ad un gioco che ha del potenziale, ma non lo sfrutta abbastanza. Il finale ripaga un po' le tre ore passate a girovagare per la foresta.
  9. pedraww
    Dec 8, 2019
    9
    Don't care if it's a walking simulator. Every single pixel of this game is beautiful and the story is nice.
  10. KARF4GEN
    Nov 20, 2019
    7
    Хорошая игра про глубокую историю и ходьбу с неудобной картой..
    Пожалуй юным игрокам она будет возможно скучновата, так что рекомендую много экшна или не ждать, или пока отложить до своей зрелости. Игроку будет понятнее и проще прочувствовать героев.
    Проходилась в целом игра на одном дыхании и весьма понравилась. История взаимоотношения двух дозорных, которые в период зрелости оказались    Хорошая игра про глубокую историю и ходьбу с неудобной картой..
    Пожалуй юным игрокам она будет возможно скучновата, так что рекомендую много экшна или не ждать, или пока отложить до своей зрелости. Игроку будет понятнее и проще прочувствовать героев.
    Проходилась в целом игра на одном дыхании и весьма понравилась.
    История взаимоотношения двух дозорных, которые в период зрелости оказались в ситуации, когда им нужно было убежать от своей судьбы и в лесу они оказались в угрожающей и не ясной ситуации.
    Ответ игра в конце дает только один - иногда ответ намного проще и трагичнее, чем тот который мы могли себе представить.
    Итог: хорошо, чуть бы побольше геймплея и стало отлично.    … Expand
  11. CriticalHit20
    Oct 20, 2019
    7
    What disappointed most was defnitely the ending. It is not really a game and you really don't have choices. A lot of these type of gave are interactive movies where your actions do not change anything, Thus, if they score well, it is because the story or video was a 7.5/10 anyway. This story was 6.5/10 but I had some interest in wondering what would it be like to be a fire watcher and IWhat disappointed most was defnitely the ending. It is not really a game and you really don't have choices. A lot of these type of gave are interactive movies where your actions do not change anything, Thus, if they score well, it is because the story or video was a 7.5/10 anyway. This story was 6.5/10 but I had some interest in wondering what would it be like to be a fire watcher and I experienced some of that and am happy for that, so I rounded it up to 7.0. I rate these games based on the experience and not how much it cost me (I got it for free), but if I spent $10 on this game, i do not think i would be getting my money's worth.… Expand
  12. ru_ND
    Sep 20, 2019
    9
    This game definitely belongs to the genre of interactive cinema. To do this, she has all the components of success in this genre: a non-trivial plot with all the relying on complications and outcomes, high-quality, and even fully voiced dialogs with the ability to choose answer options and a beautiful visual design.

    In the story, the protagonist, a man under 45, after his wife’s serious    This game definitely belongs to the genre of interactive cinema. To do this, she has all the components of success in this genre: a non-trivial plot with all the relying on complications and outcomes, high-quality, and even fully voiced dialogs with the ability to choose answer options and a beautiful visual design.

    In the story, the protagonist, a man under 45, after his wife’s serious illness, unable to bear such a shock next to her, is sent to work as an observer at a fire tower in Wyoming National Park. This is seasonal work, that is, he has about three months to understand himself and the situation, to think about life in peace and quiet. There is nobody around him, only on the horizon you can see another tower, where his boss Delaila works. He never saw her and knows only her voice, because all that connects them is a working walkie-talkie. They often communicate, get to know each other better, begin to trust each other with some personal details. In parallel, our character travels around the district, carrying out various everyday tasks of the leadership.

    It sounds quite pastoral, but don’t think that this is some kind of nerdy with dialogs, such as: “Today the weather is beautiful, isn't it?”. The screenwriter or screenwriters of the game are very cool, like the voice actors. Honestly, I really liked it. Moreover, I specifically tried to maximally prolong each dialogue so that it was almost by chance to find out some new details about the main characters or the space surrounding them. For those who still think that this is some kind of tediousness, I inform you that by the middle of the game the plot begins to throw up a detective line for itself, and behind it is almost a thriller! Around the heroes, strange, inexplicable events begin to occur and the player is invited to figure out what is happening. I will not go into details to prevent spoilers. Everything is seasoned with strong household dramas of the main characters.

    The main disappointment of the game is that it is rather short. However, this may be good. Tightening the plot, the developers risked making the players bored, and so it all worked out just right, very seamlessly. Heroes made me empathize with them and this is wonderful. I really did not care when I selected the answer options in the dialogs of the final scene. As, in fact, throughout the game.

    Yes, over time, I had a few questions for the plot, but immediately after the game I had extremely positive impressions. 9/10    … Expand
  13. WhalesLoveSmash
    Jul 12, 2019
    6
    Overhyped. The game just isn't that fun to play. Going into it I knew that it would be a walking simulator, but even compared to those it struggles to be as intriguing as What Remains of Edith Finch or The Stanley Parable. The only thing this game has going for it is the art style, once you get past that the rest of the game kind of sucks. Moving through the world is clunky andOverhyped. The game just isn't that fun to play. Going into it I knew that it would be a walking simulator, but even compared to those it struggles to be as intriguing as What Remains of Edith Finch or The Stanley Parable. The only thing this game has going for it is the art style, once you get past that the rest of the game kind of sucks. Moving through the world is clunky and unresponsive because the guy you play as can't jump over something half an inch tall. All you do in this game is run from location to location and once you get there there is some scripted event. The world is lifeless (this park has no animals or dynamic events whatsoever) and the main story takes you to the same locations over and over and leaves half of the world unexplored. The story heavily dies out as it begins to build tension. The pacing of this game is awful. The first few days and the last few days will take around 80% of your playtime as everything from day 10-70 is glossed over. As I said earlier, the game just isn't fun. I have zero idea how this managed to get such high review scores while being a mediocre game. The world, dialog, and voice acting may be good but everything else is not.… Expand
  14. WhiskeyStories
    Jul 12, 2019
    7
    I've beaten Firewatch at least 3 months ago, and I still catch myself thinking about it. Pondering over the twisty-turny mystery plot, the gorgeous visuals and the delightful banter and chemistry between Henry and Delilah - performed wonderfully by the great Rich Sommer (Mad Men represent!) and Cissy Jones. As far as gameplay goes, there isn't a whole lot, but it's a damn good walkingI've beaten Firewatch at least 3 months ago, and I still catch myself thinking about it. Pondering over the twisty-turny mystery plot, the gorgeous visuals and the delightful banter and chemistry between Henry and Delilah - performed wonderfully by the great Rich Sommer (Mad Men represent!) and Cissy Jones. As far as gameplay goes, there isn't a whole lot, but it's a damn good walking simulator as far as I'm concerned, with a genuinely lovely atmosphere.

    Firewatch is one of those games that lingers. It stays with you long after you've finished the 5-6 hour long story.    … Expand
  15. jakematthews
    Jun 9, 2019
    9
    I loved this game. I was quite nervous most of the time. To be fair, I created my own jump scares. I felt really immersed in the story and I was hoping the other character would pop up so I didn't feel alone. The walkie talkie communication is what makes this game stand out to me! I was always checking my back, expecting someone to pop out, especially during climbing. Navigation in thisI loved this game. I was quite nervous most of the time. To be fair, I created my own jump scares. I felt really immersed in the story and I was hoping the other character would pop up so I didn't feel alone. The walkie talkie communication is what makes this game stand out to me! I was always checking my back, expecting someone to pop out, especially during climbing. Navigation in this game is unique. Can be a lot of walking if you get lost. I'm not sure whether or not my decisions at the start of the game had any affect on the ending though? Either way I really enjoyed the game. I would recommend.… Expand
  16. Grachechkovski
    Jun 2, 2019
    10
    A wonderful story about an ordinary man who decided to go further and be stronger than his problems (spoiler: if you chose the appropriate path in the dialogues).

    In this game everyone will really find themselves and understand that the main character for them is closer than anyone else. Genius work of PANIC, INC.
  17. brendo214
    May 30, 2019
    9
    I can understand people being frustrated with the ending, but I think it ended in the only way it could have.
  18. 75978
    May 11, 2019
    9
    hard to say something about the game should just go through and appreciate the story itself
    no doubt you can say the game looks great
  19. beccathestrigga
    Apr 9, 2019
    8
    I'm a big fan of great stories in video games. And I got a great story here. Sure, some of players may be disappointed with an ending, but I really like it. Beautiful graphic and astonishing voice acting, all of that with well writing gave me a great experience I'll never forget. I'm already waiting for "In the Valley of Gods" from this developer :)
  20. Krzych
    Feb 27, 2019
    8
    Firewatch certainly stands out among other games of this type. Thanks to great voice acting and interactive dialogues it manages to be more engaging, which combined with interesting story and great artstyle makes a very good and unique game. And what's maybe most interesting, this artstyle didn't prevent the game from resembling the feel of wilderness and creating believable environment,Firewatch certainly stands out among other games of this type. Thanks to great voice acting and interactive dialogues it manages to be more engaging, which combined with interesting story and great artstyle makes a very good and unique game. And what's maybe most interesting, this artstyle didn't prevent the game from resembling the feel of wilderness and creating believable environment, at times it is so believable that I could almost feel the smell of cold foggy morning when dispatching from the tower. Even though the game didn't make as much impression the second time as it did with the first, it is still a great game, especially the first time.… Expand
  21. hunk4survivor
    Jan 30, 2019
    9
    el juego es bueno..las gráficas son acorde a la historia..solo que en momentos se siente el juego corto.pero es justo por lo que se paga..
  22. DRAKULIAN
    Jan 2, 2019
    0
    Similar to "Gone Home", which is an interactive exploration simulator, Firewatch is not an actual game but rather an interactive fetch-quest story. I was immediately perturbed by the fact that this was sold to me as a game when in fact it was nothing more than a poorly-written interactive story. Regardless of what you do with Henry, the character whose sole purpose is to convey a poorlySimilar to "Gone Home", which is an interactive exploration simulator, Firewatch is not an actual game but rather an interactive fetch-quest story. I was immediately perturbed by the fact that this was sold to me as a game when in fact it was nothing more than a poorly-written interactive story. Regardless of what you do with Henry, the character whose sole purpose is to convey a poorly written story with a lazy ending, you always end up with the same/identical result. I saw no evidence of any kind that Henry could have any real affect on this world at all which is evidenced by a YouTube video that effectively demonstrates this with a "Silent Henry" walkthrough. Also by the fact that Henry can't die nor can he fail any "mission" since there aren't any because this isn't a game.

    This "story" was also very glitchy. I had to go online to get a patch just so Henry could open door(s) and pick up objects.

    The interaction was tedious and repetitive with all the inane fetch-questing and annoying dialog with Delilah and the over-the-top angsty teen girls who basically kept screwing with Henry throughout the walkthrough to an unbelievable and petty level all because he scolded them for trashing the park.

    As to the story, the guy attempting to gaslight Delilah and Henry was ridiculous and unbelievable. The premise of what he was doing up there and why he was doing it was riddled with unrealistic plot holes. Like how could he afford or get all that bulky and expensive equipment way up there and behind that fence. Then, how could he do all of it by himself without anyone ever noticing while at the same time faking permits and setting up all these elaborate government conspiracies and other bs just to gaslight two below average rubes out in the middle of nowhere. All that alone was over the top and pointless. The anticlimactic ending demonstrates pure laziness on the part of the devs. If it made you feel mad or disappointed, go with that feeling because it's the right one to have. Trust your instincts. It sucked and definitely wasn't "art".

    Overall this non-game, interactive, fetch-quest of a story/walkthrough was an annoying waste of my time and money. Poorly written, poorly developed, bait-and-switch "game" was a joke. To those claiming "this is art, man" no it's not, not by any stretch. This is a badly written novella. Ask yourself, if this were a book, would you actually buy it and add it to your library?    … Expand
  23. ave
    Dec 26, 2018
    8
    Firewatch is way more than just a "walking simulator". I think there is a thematic thread about what is means to take care of someone else. First your character has trouble with this, then there is your supervisor, and the whole mystery about the missing person...
    The environment is not just a huge national park but also a psychological landscape you traverse, filled with unanswered    Firewatch is way more than just a "walking simulator". I think there is a thematic thread about what is means to take care of someone else. First your character has trouble with this, then there is your supervisor, and the whole mystery about the missing person...
    The environment is not just a huge national park but also a psychological landscape you traverse, filled with unanswered questions, and sometimes paranoia. There is a mystery to unveil indeed, and that's only part of the whole experience.
    It's a game that you can play to take a reflexive vacation from other games. A game that doesn't ask you to master a core mechanic but to explore the difficulties of figuring things out, especially the relationships between people.    … Expand
  24. SebboBastian
    Dec 24, 2018
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. About four hour game where you will take part of a very personal story and relationship between two characters who have never met each other. Good vibes but something more is missing.… Expand
  25. Javichuck
    Dec 10, 2018
    7
    Walking simulator es el género donde más me encaja este juego. Nos cuenta una historia de misterio protagonizada por un agente forestal que vigila los fuegos desde su puesto en medio del bosque. La jugabilidad es reducida como es normal en este género y la historia tiene gran importancia aunque depende también de lo atentos que estemos a las notas que encontremos y a las conversaciones queWalking simulator es el género donde más me encaja este juego. Nos cuenta una historia de misterio protagonizada por un agente forestal que vigila los fuegos desde su puesto en medio del bosque. La jugabilidad es reducida como es normal en este género y la historia tiene gran importancia aunque depende también de lo atentos que estemos a las notas que encontremos y a las conversaciones que tengamos. El apartado artístico es su punto fuerte definitivamente recordando a juegos como The Witness y nos deja capturas realmente bonitas. Me ha gustado especialmente la manera de incluir a los personajes sin verlos, solamente a través de las comunicaciones por radio son capaces de crear vínculos realmente importantes. Recalcar su corta duración, 4h aproximadamente. En conclusión jugabilidad pobre pero aceptable para este género (6), narrativa buena y contada de manera innovadora(7), muy buen apartado artístico (8).… Expand
  26. Give_em_hell
    Dec 2, 2018
    8
    A nice short game, great voice-acting, nice atmosphere. There are some visual rough edges, they never affect the gameplay.
  27. barawekek
    Nov 29, 2018
    9
    Игра имеет очень приятный визуальный ряд и музыкальное сопровождение, что отлично дополняет повествование, за которым мы наблюдаем. Да, игра довольно короткая, однако все эти 4 часа игрок получает совершенно новый для этого жанра игр экспириенс, испытывая положительные эмоции. Многие ругают концовку этой игры, однако я считаю, что она именно такая, какой и должна быть. Рекомендую игру кИгра имеет очень приятный визуальный ряд и музыкальное сопровождение, что отлично дополняет повествование, за которым мы наблюдаем. Да, игра довольно короткая, однако все эти 4 часа игрок получает совершенно новый для этого жанра игр экспириенс, испытывая положительные эмоции. Многие ругают концовку этой игры, однако я считаю, что она именно такая, какой и должна быть. Рекомендую игру к прохождению.… Expand
  28. POstAL_QueeN
    Nov 23, 2018
    9
    Безусловно красивейшая игра. То как она подано игроку, и ее общая реализация, заставляют любоваться и наслаждаться ею бесконечно. Firewatch - это история, которая уносит тебя на пару часов в другой мир, и показывает там себя во всей красе. Кстати да, игра не длительная, даже совсем. Но поверьте, что показать ту историю которая была задумана, она смогла с полна. Хватает одного захода, дляБезусловно красивейшая игра. То как она подано игроку, и ее общая реализация, заставляют любоваться и наслаждаться ею бесконечно. Firewatch - это история, которая уносит тебя на пару часов в другой мир, и показывает там себя во всей красе. Кстати да, игра не длительная, даже совсем. Но поверьте, что показать ту историю которая была задумана, она смогла с полна. Хватает одного захода, для ее прохождения. В этом я заметил большой плюс. Она и должна быть такой маленькой по прохождению, чтобы человек зашел всего лишь раз, и в сразу ее прочувствовал. Но вот какие последствия ждут игрока при проведении этого миниатюрного времени за игрой, это уже другой вопрос (спойлер - хорошие).

    Опять же хочу заострить внимание на том, что даже лучше если вы пройдете игру за один заход. Поверьте на слово, все впечатление соберутся воедино как пазл. В конце, после прохождения будет о чем подумать, что переосмыслить, понять, довести до совершенства, то что раньше не совсем понимали. Своего рода моменты, которые требуют действия от игрока. Вы должны обдумывать действия героя, несмотря на линейность. Вы просто обязаны это делать, ибо это и есть погрузиться в прекрасное данной игры. Только тогда можно прочувствовать истинные эмоции от игры. На самом деле, довольно втягивающее работает тот элемент в игре, который заставляет подумать перед тем как делать. Да, по сути все линейно, но если досконально все изучать, то получиться некая фоновая история, которая будет реализовываться у игрока в голове (пытаюсь не спойлерить изо всех сил).

    История в игре идеальная и минусов я не вижу. Ее маленькая продолжительность ни чуть не должна никого насторожить. Все так как и должно быть. Она абсолютно комфортно чувствует себя в этих рамках, они созданы для нее. В конце может показаться намек на продолжение, но мое мнение прямо противоположное. На мой взгляд, так разработчики и планировали, заложить в голове игрока семя сомнения, задумчивости и так далее. Также повторюсь, что если быть внимательным и изучать все, что попадает под руку, то действительно будет над чем подумать, особенно после прохождения. Важно понимать, что простой игрой для прохождения, Firewatch не является. Это история, которая дает нам вжиться в персонажа и пережить пару переломных моментов его жизни, точнее даже один большой момент. И после этого подумать и осознать произошедшее, для каждого это будут свои мысли. Главное не проходить игру для галочки, это полная низость по отношению к самой игре.

    Завораживающая история, которая я думаю будет всем по душе и не оставит никого равнодушным.    … Expand
  29. ragnarokew
    Nov 3, 2018
    5
    Ok game , kinda empty i like story and atmosphere but definitely not enough.Graphics are ok need more action communication between Henry and Delilah was good but thats it nothing more.
    Play it without high expectation
  30. V0174
    Oct 15, 2018
    9
    A game about hiking and talking over a walkie-talkie... Doesn't sound like much fun. Also, it is just a few hours of gameplay.
    However it absorbed me more than I expected and I admit, in the end I almost cried. It is a bit between game and an interactive movie, your gaming skills don't matter, only your decisions.
    It is a bit horror-ish in places and it's not a good idea to play it while    A game about hiking and talking over a walkie-talkie... Doesn't sound like much fun. Also, it is just a few hours of gameplay.
    However it absorbed me more than I expected and I admit, in the end I almost cried. It is a bit between game and an interactive movie, your gaming skills don't matter, only your decisions.
    It is a bit horror-ish in places and it's not a good idea to play it while intoxicated. But definitely worth playing if you like games with atmosphere. Because this is atmosphere concentrated.

    Cons:
    - Game length
    - It seems like you can move anywhere, but it is basically limited to paths and surroundings. You are disallowed to go to places that would be clearly reachable in real life. Sometimes it a bit frustrating. I didn't experience any major glitches, unescapable places etc. though.    … Expand
  31. ARTMIS
    Sep 30, 2018
    3
    At first, I would give this game 8 - 9, but, after I finished the game. I dropped it to 3. I believe everyone already wrote the good things about this game, so I want to write the bad.
    The ending. Totally bad, my worst video game ending I believe, anti climax, in the end, we never know much about Delilah, and the truth about her, so much plot-lost. So much mystery never solved.
  32. Gelaos
    Sep 19, 2018
    7
    Wonderful game. It is "only" walking simulator but boy can it be absolutely thrilling at times. The voice acting is top notch, the story is above average (but the ending is... "unexpected" to say it politely) and I liked the artsy graphics. Dialogues between the main protagonist and his colleague felt really like something a real person would say. Navigating through the terrain quicklyWonderful game. It is "only" walking simulator but boy can it be absolutely thrilling at times. The voice acting is top notch, the story is above average (but the ending is... "unexpected" to say it politely) and I liked the artsy graphics. Dialogues between the main protagonist and his colleague felt really like something a real person would say. Navigating through the terrain quickly became boring and for only 4-5 hr. adventure the prize is quite high.… Expand
  33. errdyyy
    Jul 5, 2018
    9
    Firewatch is an excellent game. While the developers did some pretty scummy stuff about the whole PewDiePie situation, the focus shouldn't be taken off how great this game is. The Dialogue is amazing. The story is thrilling. And to be honest, I really like the ending. I thoroughly enjoyed this game and I think it deserves more praise.
  34. Stucker
    Jun 12, 2018
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The visuals is great, fun-playing and interesting to follow the story, unfortunately story won't unfold into something surprising or interesing. I was waiting for more deep story in the end, it felt like the game was butchered in the end and developers ran out of time/ideas. Overall nothing special honestly.… Expand
  35. GruntMichael
    May 27, 2018
    10
    If you are expecting a traditional Point&Click adventure it is not what you're getting here. It is very unique in it's design. Great art style and fascinating story telling. I liked it a lot.
  36. El_Manco
    May 20, 2018
    8
    Un juego maravilloso narrativamente hablando. Tenía dudas sobre el, pero nada más romperse el hielo de las conversaciones por radio, entre sel protagonista y su compañera, era fácil imaginar que me iba a encantar.
  37. YuraD
    Apr 20, 2018
    10
    This is a true narrative masterpiece. Visual and sound enjoyment. The only problem that's the story is too shirt
  38. dandalis
    Feb 22, 2018
    7
    Firewatch is a ''walking simulator'' type game that isnt boring or a tirying to play, it feels more like an actual adventure game actually. Strongest aspect of Firewatch are the stunningly done enviroments, simply walking and taking in the world is a joyful experience, its as if youre really in a forest national park or something even if the graphics are highly stylized not photoFirewatch is a ''walking simulator'' type game that isnt boring or a tirying to play, it feels more like an actual adventure game actually. Strongest aspect of Firewatch are the stunningly done enviroments, simply walking and taking in the world is a joyful experience, its as if youre really in a forest national park or something even if the graphics are highly stylized not photo realistic. The sights and sounds in Firewatch are simply lovely. Easily one of the best games that nail a forest setting.

    Gameplay wise there isnt much to it other than reading notes, taking pictures of the nice looking world, yup thats part of the gameplay, examining objects and traversing the the small but still somewhat sizeable feeling world while following objectives the storyline sets. Standard stuff for a game of this type.

    Story is where things can be more complicated. On one hand Henry and Delilah are well done, natural and believable characters, its interesting seeing how they interact with each other via walkie talkie without having seen each other in person. Story itself is pretty down to earth narrative wise with some mystery and suspense that add up as you play. And then i dont know how to feel about the ending, its like it could've played out the logical way most people would've liked it to, but the devs went the opposite way just to be different for the sake of being different not to give the player the simple satisfication of it. Also i didnt quite like how game jumps and skips from one time period in the story to the next. Its pretty short game aswell, 5 hours max if you play at a slower pace, but people who are always in rush might clock under 3 hours or less.

    Finaly on the side of one the developers being involved with political correctness bullcrap, for me personaly that would matter only if their personal beliefs would affect the game's quality itself, in Firewatch case, i didnt notice any of that crap in the game, atleast nothing that would be sticking out like a sore thumb.    … Expand
  39. sarahlee123
    Feb 20, 2018
    9
    Firewatch is a truly memorable experience.

    During the few hours I played it, I felt almost as if I really was wandering through the wilderness of Wyoming, stopping for a moment to enjoy the sunlight trickling through the trees or watch a sunset dye the sky a brilliant shade of crimson. What it lacks in traditional gameplay, Firewatch more than makes up for in its beautiful    Firewatch is a truly memorable experience.

    During the few hours I played it, I felt almost as if I really was wandering through the wilderness of Wyoming, stopping for a moment to enjoy the sunlight trickling through the trees or watch a sunset dye the sky a brilliant shade of crimson.

    What it lacks in traditional gameplay, Firewatch more than makes up for in its beautiful environments, superb voice acting, and great storytelling.

    I enjoyed exploring Firewatch's world, with all of its beautiful scenery, and found navigation with its compass and map to be mostly straightforward—although I did get lost occasionally, leading to a few moments of frustration.

    Henry's conversations with Delilah were a major highlight for me. The well-written dialogue made for uniquely human moments and the clever humor had me cracking a smile on more than one occasion.

    A lot of other reviewers have cited issues with the game's brevity and less-than-satisfying ending. I wasn't bothered by the game's short length as I felt that it had plenty offer despite it, but the ending did feel a little rushed. The game's opening scenes do a good job of gradually building a sense of unease, but once things begin to come to a head, the game quickly reveals its secret and wraps things up.

    Without giving away any spoilers, the ending does feel a little anti-climactic after all of the suspense the game builds leading up to it, but in my opinion, Firewatch is still well worth playing despite that.

    Firewatch is an excellent example of what a game can be. I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good story.    … Expand
  40. YourNeighbour
    Jan 24, 2018
    0
    FIRST UP: They BAN you for giving feedback on the forums. You PAY for a game and you give them a feedback they don't like it so they ban you? What kind of immoral developer are those? They have no shame left and should not continue to exist as a company. If you are reading this, don't buy it, or if you buy it, play it real quick and refund it.

    It might appear to be some kind of open    FIRST UP: They BAN you for giving feedback on the forums. You PAY for a game and you give them a feedback they don't like it so they ban you? What kind of immoral developer are those? They have no shame left and should not continue to exist as a company. If you are reading this, don't buy it, or if you buy it, play it real quick and refund it.

    It might appear to be some kind of open world exploration but no, it's just a linear storyline and it's helluva short for the money you will be paying.

    On top of that, the fps will jump wildly even on the best gaming PC, not very well optimized, just another cash grabbing quick asset dump.    … Expand
  41. Voodoo123
    Jan 10, 2018
    3
    This well-enough crafted game uses simple, 'nintendo style' graphics to tell its pretentious story about a fire lookout solving a mystery. It's a 3 hour long 'walking simulator' game and once you start playing, you'll quickly know if its for you or not.
  42. imnOth
    Jan 7, 2018
    10
    Please do a second part or something with more maps and stories, i don't know, just do something more! Really loved the game, and it's curious, because i found the game on steam and thought "Yeah an open world game in the forest, something that i love.. let's play it then.. why not?" and i loved it since the beginning!!! Do something more please! amazing game!!!
  43. Lenluig
    Jan 1, 2018
    7
    I look back on that game with very mixed feelings.

    Gameplay is not great at all, it does feel like a hiking simulator but the narrative is very good, very mature and totally the kind of experience I was expecting/looking for despite the insanely frustrating ending that kind of ruined it all for me. The voice acting is excellent. The opening feels a bit too much on a budget but it    I look back on that game with very mixed feelings.

    Gameplay is not great at all, it does feel like a hiking simulator but the narrative is very good, very mature and totally the kind of experience I was expecting/looking for despite the insanely frustrating ending that kind of ruined it all for me.
    The voice acting is excellent.

    The opening feels a bit too much on a budget but it gets better as you go through.

    Technically speaking I think the game could have been pushed a bit more. Some environments were barely achieved and quite unoptimized.

    To summarize it was good, but could have been immensely better.    … Expand
  44. Thanksmetacriti
    Dec 28, 2017
    0
    Garbage game from garbage devs, walking sim for sure. Boring Boring Boring Boring
  45. TitaniumDragon
    Dec 27, 2017
    1
    Firewatch is a walking simulator which uses some video-gamey elements to try and make it seem more interactive. Unfortunately, like all walking simulators, it is critically important that the story that the simulator is telling is actually interesting.

    And Firewatch fails at this. This isn’t obvious at first, though. The game actually has what seems like fairly decent moment to    Firewatch is a walking simulator which uses some video-gamey elements to try and make it seem more interactive. Unfortunately, like all walking simulators, it is critically important that the story that the simulator is telling is actually interesting.

    And Firewatch fails at this.

    This isn’t obvious at first, though. The game actually has what seems like fairly decent moment to moment writing; while it starts out with a sort of text adventure thing that unfolds as you’re hiking, it quickly starts going into actual dialogue as the protagonist (Henry) talks with Delilah, his supervisor.

    Henry has taken a job watching out for fires in a national forest as a means of getting away from his problems; his wife has early onset dementia and Henry himself is something of a mess as a result, and it is implied that he might be an alcoholic.

    The problem is that we get this at the very start of the story; this is the setup. But the game ends up spending a lot of its length having Henry reveal all this to Delilah, meaning that a lot of Henry’s “character development” is stuff we already know. While his conversations with Delilah are solid enough, they lose their oomph because we, the reader/listener, already know this from the intro.

    And this is the real flaw of Firewatch – it constantly undercuts itself. There is a mystery early on, which then links into another (greater) mystery… which is a solid way to present a plot. But the solution to the mystery is an anticlimax, and as a result all of the tension it tried to build up was utterly pointless.

    The plot is, thusly, a mess, and so from a macro structural standpoint, so is Firewatch. Without a really meaningful plot, the game is nothing more than wandering around in the forest while talking over the radio and doing slice-of-lifey stuff. And if the game had just been a slice of life drama, it might have worked. But its attempt at mystery, and its attempt at a story arc, utterly fall flat, and in the end, nothing we spent all that time doing really meant much of anything. It is a story we experience rather than interact with, and the story itself is not very good, so there’s not really anything there.

    The game itself is pretty enough – or at least, the environment is, with a nice aesthetic to it. I took quite a few screenshots, and there’s some nice little details in there, such as the protagonist writing notes to himself about what has been going on. The voice actors are both solid and deliver their lines well on the whole, though there’s some slight inconsistency in a couple scenes as a character who is supposedly getting drunk immediately sobers up a few lines later.

    But without a good story to go with it, the whole thing is an empty experience, and you will spend 4-5 hours wandering around in the forest without ultimately being led to feel like your wandering mattered.    … Expand
  46. PolarFox
    Dec 5, 2017
    9
    This game deserves the title of masterpiece.
    With a graph that puts you in a trance. This game offers an intriguing narrative experience, a mystery that makes you want to find out more, a game that carries you through feelings like a rollercoaster ,with overturning situations that makes you want to find out even more, the game unfortunately leaves you with a bitter taste from the fault of    This game deserves the title of masterpiece.
    With a graph that puts you in a trance. This game offers an intriguing narrative experience, a mystery that makes you want to find out more, a game that carries you through feelings like a rollercoaster ,with overturning situations that makes you want to find out even more, the game unfortunately leaves you with a bitter taste from the fault of the end that leaves more questions than answers.
    This game though has a strange end has an incredible story with a stunning graphics and for 20 euro game this is a must buy    … Expand
  47. da_ReVo
    Nov 15, 2017
    3
    The only thing going for this game is the beautiful art style.
    The world is quite empty in comparison to many walking sims that take place in much smaller gameworlds.
    The story doesn't go anywhere.
    And the poor business practices hurting the industry.
  48. fireyose
    Nov 7, 2017
    8
    A delightful life experience through the wilderness.. Firewatch is a slow paced story teller that does what it aims for right. The overall impact of the story did not aw me, but the building pieces to get there did. that is saying a lot. This is an experience far more than a game play centered game that only some will like. Enjoyed the map navigation system you are given. IntuitiveA delightful life experience through the wilderness.. Firewatch is a slow paced story teller that does what it aims for right. The overall impact of the story did not aw me, but the building pieces to get there did. that is saying a lot. This is an experience far more than a game play centered game that only some will like. Enjoyed the map navigation system you are given. Intuitive interaction with the environment. The places I went really did stick with me through my conversations with 'D'. Symbolic nature and how Frank copes with his woes is really the main squeeze if this title. There is a real relationship between the characters which only adds to the immersion. Enjoyed my ventures with Firewatch. Recommend to anyone looking for a good story and a unique experience.… Expand
  49. RagingPoet
    Nov 3, 2017
    8
    Pros: great visuals, interesting main characters, fluid and engaging dialog system.
    Cons: 0 gameplay, unsatisfying ending and overall lack of closure in main story and every subplot.
  50. thumperca
    Oct 15, 2017
    3
    This game was a let-down and I regret buying it. It is nowhere as good as critics believed us to be. There isn't a lot to explore and the campaign was short. The ending of the game is also a big letdown. This game builds up suspense but ends feeling empty.
  51. WarPhoenix
    Oct 4, 2017
    1
    co dev threatened to dmca pewdiepie for no reason other than not liking pewdiepie and i think its honestly BS i would of rated this game a 4 out of 10 as its as others say seems like a half assed game in everything but its certain visual appeal however with the devs behavior of doing this after any coverage about fire watch during its launch but is doing it now is stupid and inmature.
  52. realmrhyde
    Sep 26, 2017
    0
    The art style of this game is unique but for 20 bucks it is too short and ending is terrible.

    I would of given it higher but the developers also change their policy on streaming to whoever they please and have taken down streams using DMCA claims even though they clearly state on their website anyone can stream the game and even profit from it.
  53. fragman
    Sep 24, 2017
    0
    False DMCA claim simulator 2017
    And yes, this is simply a statement towards the lack of character displayed by the developer, not actually about the game. But by their standards, attacking someone's income based on something that has nothing to do with you is acceptable.
  54. Trunkis
    Sep 22, 2017
    0
    This is a really flawed game.
    Overhyped to kingdom come.
    Not worth your money.
    The best way to sum up this game is - Good Marketing campaign, Dud game.
  55. ed_aluko
    Sep 21, 2017
    0
    You are better off watching a let's Play of Firewatch as there is no gameplay only scripted dialogue and story. So save your money and watch it on Youtube.

    BTW: My first review was deleted as have most that are critical of this game and its developer in recent weeks. I would expect no better of a developer who tries to destroy someone's career because they spoke out of turn than to    You are better off watching a let's Play of Firewatch as there is no gameplay only scripted dialogue and story. So save your money and watch it on Youtube.

    BTW: My first review was deleted as have most that are critical of this game and its developer in recent weeks.
    I would expect no better of a developer who tries to destroy someone's career because they spoke out of turn than to then seek to censor those that called them out on their awful behaviour and their ludicrously overrated walking simulator.
    I fully expect Campo Santo to have this review removed as well because they are cowards and censoring criticism is what cowards do best.    … Expand
  56. LordScrambles
    Sep 20, 2017
    0
    Garbage walking simulator.

    That's it. That's all I really need to say. I could end this review here. But I guess I could go into a bit more detail. The game had "something" of an interesting premise at the start. Before actually taking control of the story, you read a series of text excerpts detailing the events leading up to the beginning of the game. However, as soon as we get into    Garbage walking simulator.

    That's it. That's all I really need to say. I could end this review here. But I guess I could go into a bit more detail.

    The game had "something" of an interesting premise at the start. Before actually taking control of the story, you read a series of text excerpts detailing the events leading up to the beginning of the game. However, as soon as we get into the game itself, you instantly become aware of the fact that the game is... well... nothing. Even by the standards of "narrative driven" games, this one just sucks. A clunky, confusing build up, that ultimately leads to a resolution that is simultaneously nonsensical and completely unsatisfying. That's what you're getting when you buy this game.

    There's nothing worse than a bad ending, and boy does this game deliver in that regard.    … Expand
  57. invizo
    Sep 20, 2017
    1
    Don't support game companies that try to grab publicity by damaging someone's reputation. Most people didn't know what Firewatch was until they pulled their little stunt.
  58. palehorse
    Sep 20, 2017
    1
    Very linear game play. Scripted in a way that is not fun. You can basically watch a stream and get as much enjoyment for free. Check it out on twitch if you're curious.
  59. adeadmoose
    Sep 20, 2017
    0
    The game was trash. Very little game play experience and content for me to consider it a "Game." I'm positive that Five Nights at Freddy's first game alone has more secrets and lore.
  60. jsven007
    Sep 19, 2017
    0
    This game is not worth the money, it lacks content, is boring, and is repetitive after a short time. If you want to buy a decent game look elsewhere. After a few hours, you will be bored with the mediocre gameplay. In summary, just do yourself a favor and avoid this game.
  61. SharkyLV
    Sep 16, 2017
    0
    Way too linear and short.

    Would rather request a refund.

    The game is centered around the plot, but the ending leaves you thinking "Well, that was a whole bunch of nothing."
  62. ABN
    Sep 15, 2017
    0
    Boring game, sub-par quality. Extremely linear and predictable. Not to mention the company behind it, Campo Santo, seems to be big time into censorship. I will not make the mistake of purchasing another Campo Santo game.
  63. Mygaffer
    Sep 14, 2017
    1
    Worst walking simulator ever. Boring "game" with a terrible ending. Is NOT worth the money. I highly recommend people stay far away from this and all of this developer's games.
  64. OllieGally
    Sep 14, 2017
    0
    Boring. Basically a walking simulator which is very short in a way, could be better with a different story line. It is a huge waste of time and money.
  65. coustoe
    Sep 14, 2017
    1
    A very linear game with very little actual gameplay or game content. Total game time is about 3 hours. It plays more like if you were just watching a movie and should be worth the same price, a few dollars. The developer seem to be jumping on the bandwagon of trying to scam gamers into paying game prices for delivering a "visual novel". This combined with hearing the Developer's recentA very linear game with very little actual gameplay or game content. Total game time is about 3 hours. It plays more like if you were just watching a movie and should be worth the same price, a few dollars. The developer seem to be jumping on the bandwagon of trying to scam gamers into paying game prices for delivering a "visual novel". This combined with hearing the Developer's recent rants about the gaming community and the over generous game review you can tell that this is another "Lost at home" Developer.… Expand
  66. legendaryns
    Sep 14, 2017
    0
    The writing, voice acting and story is interesting for what it is but the game is short, linear and there is no replay value. It's hard for me to call it a game since it's a walking simulator as well. For a walking simulator, there's a ton of backtracking through the same environments. That removes the spectacle of discovering and looking at new locations. While it's visually appealing,The writing, voice acting and story is interesting for what it is but the game is short, linear and there is no replay value. It's hard for me to call it a game since it's a walking simulator as well. For a walking simulator, there's a ton of backtracking through the same environments. That removes the spectacle of discovering and looking at new locations. While it's visually appealing, you'll be staring at the same places for the entire game. In addition, the choices you make in the game have basically no effect on the story outside a few lines of different dialog.… Expand
  67. martin03252000
    Sep 13, 2017
    0
    the developers are people that would sue a innocent person, just because they don't like them. The game is a walking simulator and if you really wanna play a walking simulator you would be beater of playing something like valley
  68. keanex
    Sep 12, 2017
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I went into Firewatch with no expectations other than beautiful scenery and the game being story driven. Cool.

    I started off totally engrossed into the game, the nature of the relationship with Julia, but I found myself curious as to where things would lead to with Delilah. Then the mystery kicks in. I found myself thinking a bit of the TV show LOST at times. After an hour or two the mystery is revealed, and it seems like it was rushed, a bit of a cop-out as well.

    I don't know how to make this game better, but I will say that I enjoyed the first half a lot more than the second half.

    This is a game well worth playing, especially due to it being a short game, but I wouldn't recommend it at the $20 it's for on Steam. I think it's super polished in controls and scenery, but the story is too short and a bit rushed. $10-$15 seems more appropriate.

    Edit: I'm changing my score from 7 to an 8. The further removed I am from this game the more I think about it and remember it fondly.    … Expand
  69. SoulExcuse
    Sep 12, 2017
    0
    A very short game where the plot goes nowhere. Beautiful art direction that conveys the sense of an open world, but is really a series of corridors without any sort of gratifying exploration.

    The game is centered around the plot, but the ending leaves you thinking "Well, that was a whole bunch of nothing."

    Do not listen to the shills creaming their jeans, Firewatch is exceedingly mediocre.
  70. Rabullione
    Sep 11, 2017
    2
    I have a single, simple requirement of videogames-- they have to be fun. This game fails to meet that requirement, and so it receives a poor rating. Enjoyable visuals, script & voice acting are the only redeeming qualities in what is, otherwise, more akin to a chore than a game.
  71. Knightsabez
    Aug 29, 2017
    8
    A very entertaining and different game. Very good writing, good soundtrack, good game overall!
    The core of the game is dialog, good dialog. Some may say it had a bad ending, but it made sense to me. Took me 4 hours :)
  72. czt
    Aug 6, 2017
    0
    "Full controller support" is just a lie if dinput controllers ignored. Handling them with unity is indeed possible, see Layers of Fear or Syberia 3 for example.
  73. DimitrisKatsa
    Aug 2, 2017
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Very short game and there's no something interesting on it, you just walking from point to point to find things just to find yourself at the ending you were fooled by that **** at least its a short game that worth to play for me, plus bad ending… Expand
  74. auditbadger
    Jul 30, 2017
    9
    I think that this is truly a unique game and I would recommend that if you are a fan of this type of genre then I think you should give this game a try.
  75. ShodanSpectre
    Jul 6, 2017
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It's a rather short game, which came as no surprise to me. About 6 hours and that's with me being explorative and often deviating to explore the game world and try to "cheat" the system by i.e. finding a way around some area when the game (rather, Delilah) - tells me to go through a cave. The game has a bit of expectations for that and there are dialogues for situations that can only happen if you are explorative (vs. just following the main quest).

    These dialogues and side deviations don't affect the main story though. The main story is quite unpredictable and certainly not stereotypical. On a few occasions - it kept me on my toes awaiting something epic or dangerous to be around the corner. Without introducing any stereotypical horror game elements, it creates an atmosphere of "umm... I have a _REALLY_ bad feeling about this... Not exactly sure why though... So I'm gonna say that I'm OK and will go ahead anyway."

    The game is for a very mature audience. This game is filled with dialogue and situations that teenagers just won't get. At times it gets so realistic that it's almost painful.

    It kind of shows how horrifying our real world can be... without any fantasy monsters, alien invaders, zombie apocalypse or secret societies...
    Just laws of nature, probability theory, human error followed by human weakness/fear of facing consequences... And so many lives can be ruined.

    It's more of a story than a game though. Looking back I remember playing it more like watching a movie. Just follow the story line and watch it unfold. You can try to explore a bit and you'll find a handful of one-off dialogues and items here and there that are nice but don't really matter. All points it gets are for the story, because it has pretty much nothing else. But the story is quite decent.    … Expand
  76. risingpheonix
    Jul 3, 2017
    7
    Okay so this a adventure game that is just beautiful ... every scene in this game is concept art with vibrant use of colors ... the story is initially intriguing and unfolds rather quickly for me ... it has a loose ending .. which to be honest I don't know what to make of ... for some it is awesome .. for some its not
  77. joenorth
    Jun 24, 2017
    8
    The game definitely is a walking simulator, but if you can get past that it's an incredible game. The art is amazing and found myself going back when they made an exploration mode to look at the details of the world. The story is very good, and your decisions seem like they matter (even though they don't really). The characters are very fun and the chemistry between Henry and Delilah isThe game definitely is a walking simulator, but if you can get past that it's an incredible game. The art is amazing and found myself going back when they made an exploration mode to look at the details of the world. The story is very good, and your decisions seem like they matter (even though they don't really). The characters are very fun and the chemistry between Henry and Delilah is very good. It's fun to just sit back and appreciate a game for what it is. Once you start sinking your teeth into this game you won't want to stop playing.… Expand
  78. MAFIAxMaverick
    Jun 22, 2017
    8
    Definitely an unexpected treat. Glad I finally got around to playing Firewatch after picking it up a year or so back. It's definitely a different kind of game. Beautiful art directions and graphics. Short, but with a pretty good story. Really enjoyed the dialogue between characters and the options you were given in regards to conversation paths.
  79. Hack
    May 25, 2017
    7
    Incredible voice work with main characters that felt extremely real, their banter kept me interested until the end, however the ending was extremely disappointing, I won't spoil it but I felt it was a giant let down that did a poor job of finishing the story and for a game in this genre that's a cardinal sin.

    Overall the game was enjoyable with a great atmosphere, I spent a large    Incredible voice work with main characters that felt extremely real, their banter kept me interested until the end, however the ending was extremely disappointing, I won't spoil it but I felt it was a giant let down that did a poor job of finishing the story and for a game in this genre that's a cardinal sin.

    Overall the game was enjoyable with a great atmosphere, I spent a large portion of the game on edge, with a feeling that something terrible was about to happen to me. The audio was top notch with amazing voice work from all involved, especially the main characters themselves, this was definitely the high point of the game. Visually it was just OK, with some low quality assets and textures that just looked off at times. Technically once again just OK, being a Unity engine game it did have some jank like asset load stutter, hitching and random frame rate drops even when installed on a SSD with a PC capable of running the game maxed out at well north of 60fps, it's definitely not the worst Unity title I've played, though.

    I'm a big fan of this genre and I do recommend Firewatch if you are too but it's not the cream of the crop, for that you'd want to play something like "What Remains of Edith Finch" which is just incredible.    … Expand
  80. Noodlebox
    May 10, 2017
    7
    Good things about Firewatch:
    - Story, of course. It what game's all about! Background behind characters, time and place make you fall in love with them all
    - Graphics are very good, love color choices - Sounds and voice acting are great - Diversity of zones, each have it's unique feel. Room for improvement: - Open world level design is fine, but some areas feels empty. World looks    Good things about Firewatch:
    - Story, of course. It what game's all about! Background behind characters, time and place make you fall in love with them all
    - Graphics are very good, love color choices
    - Sounds and voice acting are great
    - Diversity of zones, each have it's unique feel.

    Room for improvement:
    - Open world level design is fine, but some areas feels empty. World looks like decoration and I think that the game doesn't really reward you for deep exploring of hardly accessible places
    - Unity engine. I don't know why, but I don't like how it works on a PC. Controls and rendering feels weird and slow, but maybe it's just me.

    Overall: Firewatch may be not the great game, but it is great story, will totally recommend.    … Expand
  81. suzy8track
    May 1, 2017
    10
    I really enjoyed exploring this world. The conversations between Henry and Delilah were the best part of the game. They were intriguing and mysterious as well as funny and heartwarming. Totally got sucked into the mystery and the developing relationship between these two characters who seem to really hit it off right at the start, even though they haven't met. The scenery wasI really enjoyed exploring this world. The conversations between Henry and Delilah were the best part of the game. They were intriguing and mysterious as well as funny and heartwarming. Totally got sucked into the mystery and the developing relationship between these two characters who seem to really hit it off right at the start, even though they haven't met. The scenery was incredibly beautiful and I enjoyed exploring the terrain. Its a quick game that only takes a few hours. I know many people were very upset with how things ended with Henry and Delilah, but I found it to be very honest and realistic. The voice actors on this game were also superb.… Expand
  82. bdurmaz
    Apr 29, 2017
    7
    A really unique game. The art direction is magnificent, plot development and the tension level is really well structured. I personally had fun playing it.

    But the negative reviews have right too, the game is too short and you barely have any interaction with your surroundings. If only it was longer and more detailed, it could have been a solid 8.
  83. kamhagh
    Apr 20, 2017
    7
    The game is very very short for the price.
    The art is stunning and the game is very relaxing.
    the ending was a bit underwhelming but good overall!
    it's funny how the whole game is nothing than a character moving around but they managed to make it interesting. if you're looking for something like call of duty this definitely isn't the game you will like.
  84. LifeHistory
    Apr 19, 2017
    8
    It could have been even better if it was a little longer and if it had like multiple endings or something like that. But as it is still a great game, had lots of fun. Great voice acting and thrilling combining the art of the world and the graphics makes it special. I hate walking simulators but this is the best one yet. Do not miss and it pick it up at a discount totally worth every minute.
  85. Kraks
    Mar 25, 2017
    2
    I couldn't disagree with positive reviews for this game more. It is a very short adventure novella with 0 skill requirements, no puzzles, and no problem solving required. You just walk around the world for a bit and click on things and listen to a conversation between yourself and another firewatcher. The entire game may take 4 hours to complete if you go slow, but is easily completed inI couldn't disagree with positive reviews for this game more. It is a very short adventure novella with 0 skill requirements, no puzzles, and no problem solving required. You just walk around the world for a bit and click on things and listen to a conversation between yourself and another firewatcher. The entire game may take 4 hours to complete if you go slow, but is easily completed in 2.

    I wouldn't suggest this game for any more than $2. The $20 price tag suggests depth that just doesn't exist.    … Expand
  86. DanielPeled
    Mar 22, 2017
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I really liked the games first half.

    I get the game. I understand it's meant to be underwhelming- that's the point. Everything falls short and kinda is like real life, just disappointing. It's just a bit too tedious- though maybe that's apart of the point too.
    This game has no replayability. I feel as if this game was on the cusp of being something great. I was legitimately scared for a while, hearing rustling in bushes.

    Also there's a consistancy issue- "Every Cabin has one of those fauna posters hanging up"- but when you see her cabin later, she doesn't have one. This was just another instance of lack of detail    … Expand
  87. vonbird
    Mar 14, 2017
    7
    Firewatch has an impressive and beautiful environment for and indie game but I've seen better. It looks eye catching for the first few hours but the problem is that the whole game is just a few hours.
    The voice acting is also rather good and that probably the only thing that keeps you from leaving the game unfinished.
    But the game play gets boring very soon, although they try to add new    Firewatch has an impressive and beautiful environment for and indie game but I've seen better. It looks eye catching for the first few hours but the problem is that the whole game is just a few hours.
    The voice acting is also rather good and that probably the only thing that keeps you from leaving the game unfinished.
    But the game play gets boring very soon, although they try to add new elements every now and then but it really doesn't help.
    And then there is the plot...
    It really seems to be a great story until you finally find out that it wasn't and it was just another ordinary story.
    Overall if you have spare 4-5 hours to kill
    You might give Firewatch a chance, otherwise, its not worth it.    … Expand
  88. Zazcallabah
    Mar 7, 2017
    9
    Firewatch is what a walking simulator should be. Compelling narrative, great visuals, and a run button.
    While some argue that the ending was cheap, I liked it. But I’m a sucker for a story with an unreliable narrator, so what do I know.
  89. ameya_mtacritic
    Jan 31, 2017
    9
    Video games over the past few years have become bigger in size and scale. Creating a convincing and visually appealing world is no longer a hinderance as studios invest a lot of money and effort in games. Despite the advancements in technology and scope of games the core objective of it remains telling a compelling story. Firewatch is a game which does'n have a huge scope and scale butVideo games over the past few years have become bigger in size and scale. Creating a convincing and visually appealing world is no longer a hinderance as studios invest a lot of money and effort in games. Despite the advancements in technology and scope of games the core objective of it remains telling a compelling story. Firewatch is a game which does'n have a huge scope and scale but manages to tell an intimate and heartfelt story.Developer Campo Santo has crafted a game which feels fresh and is also a welcome respite from bloated video games.

    Story of Firewatch

    Firewatch tells the story of a fire lookout named henry at Shoshone National Forrest. Henry takes up this job to escape from his troubled marriage and life. Henry has a supervisor called Delilah with whom he interacts over a walkie talkie. Over the course of the game both of them encounter strange situations which are part of the overall mystery. The prologue of firewatch reveals Henry's past which reveals his relationship with his Alzheimer stricken wife.

    Firewatch tells a intimate story with strong character progression

    Firewatch manages to weave a compelling yet intimate story around it's characters. It's a effective retrospective of human behaviour and it's traits in the event of adversity. Escape is a common theme in firewatch where all the characters are running from their problems. Henry is not as much interested in his new job as much he is in running away from his troubles. Delilah drinks a lot and though not confirmed she is also running from her troubles. A Father character in firewatch (part of the mystery)is also running from something which I will not reveal. Henry's escapade as a fire lookout mirrors his intent to right the wrongs he has regret over.

    Firewatch has excellent world building

    The world building in firewatch engages you with the dialogue driven story to the far reaches of Shoshone national forrest. You believe in the world and can identify with these characters.Both Henry and Delilah engage into conversations and dialogues which acts as tools for character progression. Even having not met before Henry and Delilah develop intimacy through these conversations. Even with a limited scope of the world these characters exists in everything feels fleshed out and purposeful. Henry's escapades as a fire lookout are surprisingly nuanced and fun. You feel like you are in the forrest with these people navigating through the eerie silence of the forrest landscapes.

    Firewatch has a unique visual style

    Firewatch feels like a painting with oversaturated colour palette spread over a beautiful canvas. Green Trees and grass basks in the morning sun & light giving us mix of green and orange colours. Everything feels realistic and stylistic but filled with whole lot of optimism.

    fire watch

    Gameplay is mundane but fun

    Most of the tasks Henry takes up come from Delilah.Henry treks this terrain investigating trouble making teens and looking for missing people. Interactions with object is also simple with no complex key combinations required. The dialogue system is much like what it is in RPG games with your answers deciding the course of your interaction. Though the interactions are long they do not rely on heavy expositions. Gameplay mechanics are designed in spirit with what a fire lookout needs to do as a daily work.

    Music helps in the World building

    The background score of firewatch helps in setting up the mood & environment of the game. It evokes the ambiguity and uncertainty spread around the premise. When Henry is near an objective we get a pacing in the music. When he is disappointed we get a slow track of country side music.

    Conclusion

    Fire watch is a daring step towards reinventing the storytelling in video games. It does that with only handful of characters and effective world building. While firewatch is short in length it's length is long enough to convincingly narrate it's story. Studio Campo Santo in it's debut game has set expectations for both big and small games in terms of storytelling    … Expand
  90. LuckyLuky
    Jan 24, 2017
    10
    Amazing ambience. Great adult story, about adult problems, and especially about adult choices..choices that change you, like when you leave someone for other someone, or when you are vulnerable and cross paths with someone who (on owns right) just want to have some fun but ends up hurting you.. Great stuff. But likesaid only an adult, (and an experienced on) could understand some of theAmazing ambience. Great adult story, about adult problems, and especially about adult choices..choices that change you, like when you leave someone for other someone, or when you are vulnerable and cross paths with someone who (on owns right) just want to have some fun but ends up hurting you.. Great stuff. But likesaid only an adult, (and an experienced on) could understand some of the nuances and the pain. But dont give up kids youll get it on due time. Meanwhile play COD, It has your phew-phew.… Expand
  91. gloriouspotato
    Jan 3, 2017
    8
    With it's striking art style and overall strong presentation, Firewatch was one of my favorite games from 2016, though this is coming from someone who's no stranger to the "walking simulator" genre. Every piece of dialogue between Henry and Delilah was something to look forward to as they conversed about the hardships of life. Through this, Firewatch explores the degradation ofWith it's striking art style and overall strong presentation, Firewatch was one of my favorite games from 2016, though this is coming from someone who's no stranger to the "walking simulator" genre. Every piece of dialogue between Henry and Delilah was something to look forward to as they conversed about the hardships of life. Through this, Firewatch explores the degradation of relationships and the tendency for escapism. This is accompanied by a very fitting ambient soundtrack and an occasional dose of wit and comedy. I thought the resolution to the mystery/thriller aspect was a bit contrived, and perhaps the setting could've felt that more authentic if there was more wildlife and things to see and interact with, but on the whole I found Firewatch to be a fulfilling experience.… Expand
  92. revillo
    Jan 2, 2017
    5
    Some great marks for atmosphere, writing and voice acting. It's definitely got the largest map I've seen in a narrative-driven indie game. At the end of the day though, all the mistery, intrigue and character development culiminates in what's best described as a park-safety public service announcement that I could have easily done without.
  93. Neng-
    Dec 17, 2016
    8
    Firewatch is a very enjoyable game that heavily relies on it's main characters, their conversations and voice acting is one of the best i've seen in a videogame and that makes it special. The enviroment is well crafted and looks great.
    Plot wise, it is nothing really special, but as i said earlier, the protagonists make it so believable that you get instantly engaged with the story.
    I    Firewatch is a very enjoyable game that heavily relies on it's main characters, their conversations and voice acting is one of the best i've seen in a videogame and that makes it special. The enviroment is well crafted and looks great.
    Plot wise, it is nothing really special, but as i said earlier, the protagonists make it so believable that you get instantly engaged with the story.
    I really recommend to check this out    … Expand
  94. mysta02
    Nov 22, 2016
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Gorgeous graphics, and the music is decent. The dialogue is what keeps the game going, and a few pretty intense moments in the story. The rest is basic walking, and VERY slow climbing.

    The game is only 2-3 hours long, so not really worth $20.

    SPOILER WARNING:

    I'm 99% sure the developers ran out of money, and had to create a quicker, easier ending.

    The player discovers futuristic wave-finders, and other scientific equipment throughout the game, and it's found out at the end that it was all a sham put together by a hermit who's been living in the forest for 3 years. He pieced together futuristic science tech with stolen batteries, and salvaged snowmobiles...... It's ridiculous, and ruins what would have otherwise been an amazing, if short, game.    … Expand
  95. jacob_lukas
    Oct 20, 2016
    10
    That was an incredible experience! Fresh and beautiful. I would rate story 12/10 if I could. Deep and thoughtful. It was great from the beginning to the end. Especially ending, it's so real and damn realistic, I hated it at first but then I loved it after realizing "hey that's life!" Changing subject, graphics are stunning and well designed, orange'ish palette gives unique. dreamyThat was an incredible experience! Fresh and beautiful. I would rate story 12/10 if I could. Deep and thoughtful. It was great from the beginning to the end. Especially ending, it's so real and damn realistic, I hated it at first but then I loved it after realizing "hey that's life!" Changing subject, graphics are stunning and well designed, orange'ish palette gives unique. dreamy atmosphere. Music is great, mostly subtle, but it has it's moments. Gameplay is also "subtle", with not a lot interactions so it's kinda a drawback, (not really for people who hate walking simulators) but than you can focus more on story, exploring and embracing the atmosphere. So overall it's beautiful, "epic" (in it's own way) and unforgettable adventure. I greatly recommend and hope that devs will publish another game like that :)… Expand
  96. mikepatyaev
    Oct 6, 2016
    7
    Extremely short and it doesn't leave you satisfied.

    There is almost no interaction aside from the "dialogue" (which was good), which at the end doesn't matter, there is absolutely /zero/ gameplay, the story was okay (aside from the terrible ending) and that's Firewatch.

    Simple and short.
  97. ponx
    Oct 3, 2016
    9
    For me Firewatch is one of the rare proofs that games are finally becoming a mature medium, telling stories for grown-ups. Firewatch bleeds a very unique atmosphere between melancholy and tension, and i enjoyed every minute of it - sometimes biting my nails in suspense, sometimes just enjoying the beautifully crafted setting. If you don't expect your games to throw explosions andFor me Firewatch is one of the rare proofs that games are finally becoming a mature medium, telling stories for grown-ups. Firewatch bleeds a very unique atmosphere between melancholy and tension, and i enjoyed every minute of it - sometimes biting my nails in suspense, sometimes just enjoying the beautifully crafted setting. If you don't expect your games to throw explosions and jumpscares in your face every second, and still enjoy an intense and believable experience, this game is for you.… Expand
  98. goodterling
    Oct 3, 2016
    0
    What a WASTE OF TIME. This game is the equivalent of those modern art paintings of one simple square. It exists only to make pretentious people feel deep for "getting" it. It's a lot of unnecessarily slow and awkward trudging around a forest, tracking down very MUNDANE mysteries that end up being EVEN MORE mundane when revealed. Your OWN LIFE is almost certainly more interesting thanWhat a WASTE OF TIME. This game is the equivalent of those modern art paintings of one simple square. It exists only to make pretentious people feel deep for "getting" it. It's a lot of unnecessarily slow and awkward trudging around a forest, tracking down very MUNDANE mysteries that end up being EVEN MORE mundane when revealed. Your OWN LIFE is almost certainly more interesting than anything in this game. If not, you're doing it wrong.… Expand
  99. FlorinEmil
    Sep 12, 2016
    1
    The only good thing about this game is the art style and the voice actors.
    The best walking simulator of this year 10/10 would walk again and answer that radio.
  100. knuckle_rap
    Sep 10, 2016
    6
    Waiting for the price tag to drop would've probably taken a half a year at best so I went ahead and snapped this up yesterday on a whim. My thoughts:

    Excelent chemistry between Hank and Delilah. Great dialogue, scenic but nothing special. People make out as if cel-shaded backdrops and autumnal hues are worth the ticket price alone. (I did like the protagonist's body texture though).    Waiting for the price tag to drop would've probably taken a half a year at best so I went ahead and snapped this up yesterday on a whim. My thoughts:

    Excelent chemistry between Hank and Delilah. Great dialogue, scenic but nothing special. People make out as if cel-shaded backdrops and autumnal hues are worth the ticket price alone. (I did like the protagonist's body texture though). Decent run time for 20€, although it feels like the third act was cut completely due to budget restraints and replaced with "revelations" that missed the mark completely as far as emotional impact was concerned.

    I was also peeved because even on a decent enough rig - I can run Skyrim on high res on my brand new ultrabook - the game was choppy as hell on anything but low graphic settings. Maybe bad porting?

    In any case, I enjoyed playing this game but the underwhelming ending and the lack of character development in the last act was a huge letdown and I left unsatisfied.    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

61
#61 Best PC Game of 2016
13
#13 Most Discussed PC Game of 2016
55
#55 Most Shared PC Game of 2016

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
81

Generally favorable reviews - based on 65 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 51 out of 65
  2. Mixed: 14 out of 65
  3. Negative: 0 out of 65
  1. CD-Action
    May 1, 2016
    80
    Firewatch is hands down the best, the most engaging first person walker I have ever played. Something doesn’t let me rate it higher though, and I guess it’s my common sense. [04/2016, p.50]
  2. GameSpew
    Apr 15, 2016
    80
    The look of this game is nothing short of stunning… Each detail is carefully designed and thought out with a charming feel to it overall.
    Read full review
  3. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Apr 12, 2016
    100
    This unconventional game combines strong story, beautiful natural surroundings and fantastically written and played characters. What it lacks in classic adventure mechanics, it makes up in great dialogue system between the main protagonists. [Issue#262]
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