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. AstiX
    Feb 12, 2016
    10
    Oh. My. God. This is not a game. This is art. This is something completely different, a next level experience.

    The graphics are amazing, the atmosphere is beautiful and haunting. You really feel like you're there. I felt shivers throughout the entire game. The acting is incredible, the characters are so believable and really manage to get you immersed in the story, which is by the way,    Oh. My. God. This is not a game. This is art. This is something completely different, a next level experience.

    The graphics are amazing, the atmosphere is beautiful and haunting. You really feel like you're there. I felt shivers throughout the entire game. The acting is incredible, the characters are so believable and really manage to get you immersed in the story, which is by the way, not what I expected, and I loved it.

    Most of the negative reviewers were disappointed because of how the story turned out, but in fact if it turned out any other way (to meet the average player's expectations) I wouldn't have been writing this review. The game is exactly what it's supposed to be, it's realistic, and conveys it's story perfectly.

    I completed this in one sitting, and for about 4.5 hours I was completely isolated from the real world and couldn't move away from my screen playing. I don't spend too many hours in the day playing games, so I don't remember the last time a game kept me glued to the chair for so long. BUY THIS GAME!    … Expand
  2. riniolosalvator
    Feb 12, 2016
    10
    This game is not for everyone. I believe its one of the most mature games ive played in the sense of empathizing with very real relationship building and life's moral dilemmas. Its one of the few games that uses not responding as a response in itself and the game is not AAA big budget length which I really appreciate. It was enough to get through in one setting without the story gettingThis game is not for everyone. I believe its one of the most mature games ive played in the sense of empathizing with very real relationship building and life's moral dilemmas. Its one of the few games that uses not responding as a response in itself and the game is not AAA big budget length which I really appreciate. It was enough to get through in one setting without the story getting old or repetitive. Don't play if you just love saving the galaxy, social team experiences, or shooting your friends. Do play if you want to see and feel something interesting in a well done piece of independent art.… Expand
  3. Frank70
    Feb 12, 2016
    0
    One of the most disappointing game ive ever played (and im 45 ) .The game is basically 2 actors with good acting attitudes speaking between each other . There is no story , no character development , nothing make sense. All is shallow , boring , visually nice but not at the level of other games ( it's not that something is artistic because it's cartoon style . Very shallow game .... AndOne of the most disappointing game ive ever played (and im 45 ) .The game is basically 2 actors with good acting attitudes speaking between each other . There is no story , no character development , nothing make sense. All is shallow , boring , visually nice but not at the level of other games ( it's not that something is artistic because it's cartoon style . Very shallow game .... And characters are the most disappointing part.… Expand
  4. wiski
    Feb 12, 2016
    5
    This was a good story, but it was not a good GAME. This felt like me guiding a character around on rails as I was told a story by the characters in it. I would not recommend this for $20, or the $18 I paid for it. I would recommend you either wait for a sale and it comes down to around $5, or just watch a Let's Play of it while holding a controller and pretending you're the one moving theThis was a good story, but it was not a good GAME. This felt like me guiding a character around on rails as I was told a story by the characters in it. I would not recommend this for $20, or the $18 I paid for it. I would recommend you either wait for a sale and it comes down to around $5, or just watch a Let's Play of it while holding a controller and pretending you're the one moving the character around.

    It took me 3.2 hours to complete this game, and that is with getting lost multiple times.    … Expand
  5. delorean88
    Feb 12, 2016
    0
    I've made an account to rate this game a zero. I knew it was walking simulator on rails before I started playing, but this is completely and utterly a waste of time.
  6. ThunderRam
    Feb 12, 2016
    8
    Played it - Beat it - I would have given it a 10 if the ending wasnt that "bleh". It was an extremely well done game overall. Story and dialogue were great and it was very intriguing on how you communicated with Delilah. Felt like a movie.

    I was just so disappointed in the ending that it took away from the heart and originality of the game.
  7. Seezer
    Feb 12, 2016
    5
    Nothing happens: The game.

    The dialogue is the only thing that redeems it, but you will not have any reason to play it again.

    Not worth the price.
  8. MisterMortal
    Feb 12, 2016
    10
    One of the most immersive games I have ever played. From the start till the end you feel like you are actually Henry. It was like a beautiful trip, with ups and downs. Closest thing to this game is Journey. Both of them make you bond with a game on an emotional level, but due to a very good character development and interesting dialog the bond with a game becomes somewhat intimate. IOne of the most immersive games I have ever played. From the start till the end you feel like you are actually Henry. It was like a beautiful trip, with ups and downs. Closest thing to this game is Journey. Both of them make you bond with a game on an emotional level, but due to a very good character development and interesting dialog the bond with a game becomes somewhat intimate. I haven't had so much feelings playing game in years. It was overwhelming experience and after I finished playing it I felt a huge grin on my face.

    The visuals are stunning. Color pallets change over the course of the game, but they perfectly capture intensiveness of the game moments while always looking gorgeous.

    Firewatch has couple downsides. People already pointed this out but the game is quite short. Also dialog could be easily expanded to have a bit more depth. And unfortunately it doesn't have replay value. Though the downsides sound like not a game problem but more of me selfishly wanting to squeeze this amazing game for more entertainment. And for the replay value, let me just say it's a journey, one time journey, it makes you feel things, and it wouldn't be very effective if it tried to play on the same feeling over and over. You play the game, you remember the game some time later and it gives you warm feelings. Like an adventure with your real life friends. It doesn't have to be relived again to be better.

    All in all, it's an amazing game. Maybe 20 euros for a game that you will only play one time sounds a bit too much, but it is worth every single penny, because you are not buying a game, you are buying once in a life time experience.    … Expand
  9. ChoBroooo
    Feb 11, 2016
    5
    I used to support this game A LOT in fact. However, I realized how many lies and things that were never mentioned before that weren't in it. Was it 6 hours? NOPE! Most beat in 4 hours, going through everything. It's not open world, there is no combat, there is no life, THERE IS **** NOTHING!! There have been MULTIPLE patches since release, with at least 2. And this game was short, itI used to support this game A LOT in fact. However, I realized how many lies and things that were never mentioned before that weren't in it. Was it 6 hours? NOPE! Most beat in 4 hours, going through everything. It's not open world, there is no combat, there is no life, THERE IS **** NOTHING!! There have been MULTIPLE patches since release, with at least 2. And this game was short, it should have been at least a week before patching. Honestly, just either buy it at maybe $5 or do not bother. I already refunded it, with 2.1 hours, hopefully I get my money back. This game is not a 0, 1, or 2. But, it's not a 9 or 10, it is a awful value in every way. Just watch a lets play. Trust me, you'll thank me later.… Expand
  10. AndersMorales
    Feb 11, 2016
    9
    A short but sweet masterwork in storytelling, Campo Santo's Firewatch plays out wonderfully as a testament to what great writing, lush set pieces, believable voice-acting, and a solid soundtrack can do to make an otherwise basic experience incredibly compelling. Though much of the game exists on inflexible rails that keep you moving forward through various story corridors, I found myselfA short but sweet masterwork in storytelling, Campo Santo's Firewatch plays out wonderfully as a testament to what great writing, lush set pieces, believable voice-acting, and a solid soundtrack can do to make an otherwise basic experience incredibly compelling. Though much of the game exists on inflexible rails that keep you moving forward through various story corridors, I found myself stopping at points to wonder about where the game was taking me, theorizing often in a short amount of time about how things might ultimately come together. Right to the game's final moments and in the best way possible, I felt positioned by the developers in such a way to wonder about what comes next without ever being certain of anything. This game has been described as being like playing a great book, and I'll agree with that. Great for anyone who enjoys an edge-of-your-seat story dripping with mystery. Will play again, definitely.… Expand
  11. Wkgh
    Feb 11, 2016
    8
    An incredibly well made game, that I suggest every gamer who has just a tiny bit of good taste and sense of quality should try. The story is well told and very intriguing. The only reason the game doesn't get 10 in rating is because it is a one time play through. At least in my opinion. But truly it is an amazing game Panic. Inc has created here :) Highly Recommend it...
  12. Nogard123
    Feb 11, 2016
    0
    This game begins very interesting,but the further you go in the more obvious it is that they rushed this out.
    A very short game and very bad story, my advice would be to avoid this game.
    No replay value at all,l i also see that Anita Sarkeesian is in the end credits,that could explain why this game is a huge failure.
  13. yogibbear
    Feb 11, 2016
    4
    Good gameplay, good humorous writing, interesting concept. Let down heavily by an unbelievable plot full of idiotic characters making stupid decisions. Entire game falls over because you cannot believe what they do or their motivations. Rest of it would be great in another game with a better story and more expanded gameplay. So... I feel ripped off. I mean I knew it was going to be a storyGood gameplay, good humorous writing, interesting concept. Let down heavily by an unbelievable plot full of idiotic characters making stupid decisions. Entire game falls over because you cannot believe what they do or their motivations. Rest of it would be great in another game with a better story and more expanded gameplay. So... I feel ripped off. I mean I knew it was going to be a story game / walking simulator, but there's just no meat here. Also there's no real choice in what happens, just different dialogue as far as I can tell. Pretty disappointed as from the reviews I'd read they made it sound like there'd be multiple endings or something so at least that would've given it some meat, but nope. Not recommended.… Expand
  14. Muuvinki
    Feb 11, 2016
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. My last review was removed here, so I guess damage control has begun.
    This game is only 3 - 4 hours long, on rails walking simulator.
    Devs mislead players into thinking that this a open world game, which it isn't.
    Don't support lying devs and price tag of 20$ for a game that offers nothing new.

    PS
    I will keep posting my review back here everytime someone removes it
    You cant silence the truth.    … Expand
  15. dunnyone
    Feb 11, 2016
    4
    I'll give the developers this, the voice acting is excellent. The banter between the two characters is incredibly realistic but this falls woefully short as a game. It's three hours long (if that) and the ending is utter trash. It was also insanely overpriced for what you get. I truly do not understand these idiot official sites that tell us how excellent these games are, when they areI'll give the developers this, the voice acting is excellent. The banter between the two characters is incredibly realistic but this falls woefully short as a game. It's three hours long (if that) and the ending is utter trash. It was also insanely overpriced for what you get. I truly do not understand these idiot official sites that tell us how excellent these games are, when they are simply lackluster walking simulators. Wait for a Steam sale, when it drops to $5 then snap it up.… Expand
  16. AlexBoss21
    Feb 11, 2016
    10
    its the most awesome game of his kind from the games i played and i didn't finish it yet...but its awesome and the story and all that stuff are awesome!!!
  17. hhhhojeihsu
    Feb 10, 2016
    8
    -Graphics (8): Well the color is pretty vivid, and i just love the style. You can watch the trailer, screenshots or gameplay if you don't know what I'm talking about. However it lacks of variation.

    -Background Music (7): There are hardly any music through the gameplay, what you heard is the sound of nature or the existence of yourself. -Plot (6): Many folks say that the game has a    -Graphics (8): Well the color is pretty vivid, and i just love the style. You can watch the trailer, screenshots or gameplay if you don't know what I'm talking about. However it lacks of variation.

    -Background Music (7): There are hardly any music through the gameplay, what you heard is the sound of nature or the existence of yourself.

    -Plot (6): Many folks say that the game has a **** ending. THAT DEPENDS ON HOW YOU EXPLAIN THE STORY. Personally thinking, the story is pretty intense except the ending. And it lack of explanation or predictive things we expected. But overall the story itself is fine. Not satisfying but fine. Consider it is an indie.

    -Performance (7): I think my computer's spec is way higher than the recommendation. But the framerate sometimes drop to 40 fps. Considering there's nothing GPU intense scene, I think this is due to poor optimization. But overall it is fine.

    -Control (8): There's no unresponsive control. And the overall control design is fine.

    -Pros:
    //The comm system. It's very creative. And I enjoy the deep dialogue. And it's an important element in the game.
    //The entire firewatch concept is nice. A place without crowd and living with natural.
    //There're many thing trying to express during the gameplay. I think you should try it yourself and you will know what I'm talking about.

    -Cons:
    //There're only one story and the dialogue you choose doesn't effect anything at all. Maybe it's because I played a few visual novel before. Then the dialogue may show nothing to some gamer.
    //To tell the truth, I don't spend much of time exploring. But the devs use the map just for story telling, which is kind of pity.
    //The lack of interactive around the environment and the collection. There are few things you can take, or it's meaningless to take it.

    -Overall: I will suggest you to play this game. It's kind of refreshing and creative.    … Expand
  18. CJozsa
    Feb 10, 2016
    9
    Amazing characters, dialogue and voice acting.

    Beautiful visuals and aesthetic. Story was great. Loved how it explored human emotions in an isolated environment, with a childlike sense of adventure. Sad to see so many haters posting 0's when they could've known it wasn't their cup of tea before playing (which i doubt many of them even did) by simply watching a trailer. I guess    Amazing characters, dialogue and voice acting.

    Beautiful visuals and aesthetic.

    Story was great. Loved how it explored human emotions in an isolated environment, with a childlike sense of adventure.

    Sad to see so many haters posting 0's when they could've known it wasn't their cup of tea before playing (which i doubt many of them even did) by simply watching a trailer. I guess that's just the internet though.    … Expand
  19. itmo
    Feb 10, 2016
    3
    So did they forget to finish the game but still charge for a full game? The best way to sum up this game is - Good Marketing campaign, Dud game. The asking price for this game is 3 times to much for what you get, and what you get is a 3 hour walking simulator, on rails, no exploring the great wide yonder, a pretense to an interesting story which falls flat on its backside. There is noSo did they forget to finish the game but still charge for a full game? The best way to sum up this game is - Good Marketing campaign, Dud game. The asking price for this game is 3 times to much for what you get, and what you get is a 3 hour walking simulator, on rails, no exploring the great wide yonder, a pretense to an interesting story which falls flat on its backside. There is no climax, there really isn't much of a game. Zero replay value. Reminds me of the beginners guide, it's trying to be arty, cool but comes off as lame, underdeveloped and a missed opportunity to be an innovative idea.… Expand
  20. BatteryD
    Feb 10, 2016
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Firewatch is story of a interesting, but very average character who goes by the name of Henry.

    Positives:
    Hank is very well designed character:
    Basically Henry is whatever you want him to be. Developers did fantastic job of leaving it to the players imagination.
    The background and the foundation to Henrys story:
    They did better job of giving the foundation to the story in less than 10 minutes than some games do in their entirety. (Max Payne didn't do it for me in 3 games)
    Graphics:
    Own style of graphics: Not unique, but does the job for me
    Game lenght:
    Very compact. In fact so compact that I was impressed by the fact that it gave so many thoughts in my head.
    Story:
    D:s and Hanks relationship felt so real, and the things they went through together were simply breathtaking.
    The ending was everything I hope for in a game. It left me wanting more of firewatch. More of Henry and Delilah. Together. I think that some people didn´t like for the fact that Hollywood has made a thing called "Happy endings". And as someone who is sick and tired of cliché endings, I really felt something at the end. A bond to the story and their relationship.

    Negatives:
    Story:
    In my opinion they could have wrapped up things more nicely (Something could´ve happened to the girls.... Anything else.(I still liked the outcome of the game))
    Game:
    Major mistake is the chunk loading and fps dropping (I think it can be patched)
    Climbing was little bit meh.
    Lenght:
    Very compact. Could have possibly enjoyed more of it, but who knows.

    To wrap things up:
    I think that gameplay experience was great. The fact that I didn´t play it at one go might´ve helped.
    Will give 10/10 since it had minor mistakes on some parts. (For the games defence Witcher 3: Wildhunt had minor mistakes and still was the perfect game. I´m not comparing them to one another, but Firewatch was great gaming experience and only if I could I would re-experience it again.    … Expand
  21. Dukay66
    Feb 10, 2016
    9
    Firewatch is a beautiful game that tells a personal story that may not pay off towards the end of it's brisk walkthrough, but it definitely warrants a playthrough. Its an experience filled with nice touches and intricate details throughout the world and more importantly in the conversations you have with Delilah. The world you inhabit is designed fantastically, I felt like I was actuallyFirewatch is a beautiful game that tells a personal story that may not pay off towards the end of it's brisk walkthrough, but it definitely warrants a playthrough. Its an experience filled with nice touches and intricate details throughout the world and more importantly in the conversations you have with Delilah. The world you inhabit is designed fantastically, I felt like I was actually exploring a real place. Firewatch's art direction also boast the game to a whole other level, it's stunning most of the time. I played on the PS4 and it ran fairly poorly, I'm not sure why. There is barely anything going on screen, but the game can't keep up and there are also popups. Another thing I felt could have been better is the movement, it feels really janky at times, which is disappointing considering that's what you do the whole game. Lastly as stated before, the ending loses steam and tries to shoehorn in a secondary plot that doesn't payoff at all. It also goes into a direction that doesn't let it be what it should have been. Firewatch though, is all about the relationship between you and a woman on the other side of a walkie talkie and it's truly moving at some points.… Expand
  22. Fadeley
    Feb 10, 2016
    8
    The game plays a bit differently from what I expected going in. But the story kept my full attention, and the experience leaves me pining for more. I don't necessarily think that's a bad thing, and I truly hope to see more from Campo Santo in the future, but perhaps next time they could make their game a bit longer.
  23. Jacketrooperr
    Feb 10, 2016
    10
    I think it's not the game is average, but it's the interpretation and limited experience of people is. Anyone who is "disappointed" about the ending has a lot of learning to do about life.
  24. Wendrop
    Feb 10, 2016
    8
    Going into Firewatch, I had no idea what to expect. I had only seen a short gameplay video a few months back. This isn't so much a game as it is an experience. Some may call it a "walking simulator" and they may be right, but I think there is a bit more to it than that. You actually feel that you are playing the role of Hank (He doesn't like that name) through the choices that you make.Going into Firewatch, I had no idea what to expect. I had only seen a short gameplay video a few months back. This isn't so much a game as it is an experience. Some may call it a "walking simulator" and they may be right, but I think there is a bit more to it than that. You actually feel that you are playing the role of Hank (He doesn't like that name) through the choices that you make. Tho voice acting is absolutely amazing and the art style reminds me of a Disney film (Kinda like UP) aesthetically. The only knock on the game is the pseudo-open world. There were times where I could not cross a rock because of an invisible wall, but luckily this wasn't very annoying. I managed to finish it in just under 4 hours or so, but I have the feeling that there is ALOT that I did not manage to see in my first playthrough, such as how the relationship with Delilah would have turned out had I perhaps been more harsh on her.

    Is Firewatch worth the £15 price tag? If you are someone who judges the price of a game on it's gametime, then maybe not. But if you value the experience of a game and how it makes you feel more than game time, then £15 is a near steal for the sheer emotional rollercoaster that it will manage to take you on in just 4 hours.

    Note:This is the first review I have ever given for a game, so forgive me if I done a shoddy job of it.    … Expand
  25. kursku
    Feb 10, 2016
    5
    Do you know when you watch something and you fell that something is wrong? At one point that yo normally feel a awkward by it? The experience is divided by three major acts, the first one is when you are really excited by all that you see and hear, to see yourself in a Wyoming forest and walking around a lake, being mocked by some drunk teenagers girls, your relationship falling apartDo you know when you watch something and you fell that something is wrong? At one point that yo normally feel a awkward by it? The experience is divided by three major acts, the first one is when you are really excited by all that you see and hear, to see yourself in a Wyoming forest and walking around a lake, being mocked by some drunk teenagers girls, your relationship falling apart because you can't handle it. Then, it's just a walk from point A to point B type of game that you expect something out of nothing, and the third act is when you have your expectations up high and you are throw away by a really bad ending story.

    It's the kinda game that you have to buy during a sale, it's short, and as the main character says at the end, disappointing. Because, well, there is no ending, there is no nothing.    … Expand
  26. Feeder16
    Feb 10, 2016
    5
    Summary
    Art - Amazing
    Voice Acting - Amazing Story - Average Game length - 4 hours (would be 2 1/2 if there wasn't loads of days where it makes you go back an forth) Ultimately I was disappointed with the game, the story starts so incredibly and then just deteriorates into insignificance. Only paid £15 but feel slightly overcharged. Was looking forward to Firewatch for months    Summary
    Art - Amazing
    Voice Acting - Amazing
    Story - Average
    Game length - 4 hours (would be 2 1/2 if there wasn't loads of days where it makes you go back an forth)

    Ultimately I was disappointed with the game, the story starts so incredibly and then just deteriorates into insignificance.

    Only paid £15 but feel slightly overcharged.

    Was looking forward to Firewatch for months and I'm the end feel disappointed.    … Expand
  27. SkitOxe
    Feb 10, 2016
    9
    A truly awe inspiring game.

    Stellar voice acting and memorable characters that i'll remember for years to come makes this game one of the best titles i've played in recent years. The visuals are stunning. You could literally decorate your apartment with screenshots from this game. The story is spellbinding and exciting. I've read that some people is dissatisfied with the ending to    A truly awe inspiring game.

    Stellar voice acting and memorable characters that i'll remember for years to come makes this game one of the best titles i've played in recent years.
    The visuals are stunning. You could literally decorate your apartment with screenshots from this game.
    The story is spellbinding and exciting.

    I've read that some people is dissatisfied with the ending to some degree. However i don't agree at all. The ending is amazing and adds depth to to experience.

    If you have'nt played this game yet. Just do it! For your own sake!

    9/10
    Amazing in it's full right.    … Expand
  28. Dough15
    Feb 10, 2016
    7
    Great narrative-experience, accompanied by top-notch voice acting, art-direction and pacing, that's therefore weakened by a heartless conclusion that doesn't make justice to the mistery established early in the game. Firewatch is memorable, but replaying it seems pointless.
  29. rd1349
    Feb 10, 2016
    9
    If you've been following my reviews you've probably got it by now that I only (for now) review games I enjoy, This is no such exception.

    I only just finished Firewatch half an hour ago and in all honesty I don't actually know how to review this. On an overall level the game is a masterpiece, on a mechanical level the game is a mess. The reason I don't know how to review it is because I    If you've been following my reviews you've probably got it by now that I only (for now) review games I enjoy, This is no such exception.

    I only just finished Firewatch half an hour ago and in all honesty I don't actually know how to review this. On an overall level the game is a masterpiece, on a mechanical level the game is a mess. The reason I don't know how to review it is because I simply don't know if the mechanical part counts... Firewatch does something strange and manages to pull off it's entire narrative while only showing five moving characters. First is the main character Henry (yes you can see your feet) , three others are shadow, one is a fireman at the end of the game and the other is a tortoise.

    Graphical fidelity combined with the games aesthetic give it a straight 10/10 in that department, whenever I see a game pull of it's own unique style so well it's hard to judge it.

    Mechanics get a solid 4/10 why am I rating it so well then you ask? because for me at least they don't count. If you are the kind of person who plays their games for the fun gameplay this is actually a game you should stay far far away from.

    Now the soundtrack is decent, not stellar but decent. It doesn't really need to be though, It fulfills its purpose without actually detaching at all from the rest of the game which in reality is a game about the average, it's not a game about saving the world or surviving a raving axe flailer it's a game about people, which brings me to the next part.

    Characters and plot.
    There's little I can say without spoiling the plot. I can firmly say that it was excellent right to the end, then fell slightly flat. The plot plays with your expectations and sucessfully tricked me on multiple occasions. It went from a heavy hearted rom-com to a high stakes game of cat and mouse paranoia then despite handing me the truth it still left me creating conspiracy theories about what was going on. The plot and the characters also weave into one another meshing quite well.
    The two main characters are possibly the highlight of this game though. The interaction between Delilah and the main character felt extremely natural without the akwardness of games like Life is strange. For the most part the game is just their interaction. Just them talking making witty banter and occasionally dipping into each others personal lives. The amazing voice acting and mountains apon mountains of branching dialog (that do affect the ending btw) are what gave this game it's score.

    Subjectively this game does not come much higher than its' objective rating. The company responsible for making it recently came off from helping with telltales The Walking Dead and it honestly feels like the rebuilt telltales formula from the ground up and did it a whole lot better.

    So final score : 8 or 10
    yeah 8 OR 10. I really don't know how to rate this game. It has no pretense of being the next triple A blockbuster and I don't think it should be judged in the same categories but I do think there are things it could have done better but almost all err on the side of mechanical.
    If you are a gameplay sort of gamer and can't play a game just for the narrative then stay clear, if you enjoy a damn good story then here you go.    … Expand
  30. BoboTheDodo
    Feb 10, 2016
    10
    I cannot even begin to explain how amazingly good this game is. From the story, to the presentation, the art style, the voice acting...and yes even the game-play is very interesting! Even though I finished this in one sitting the game does have replay value(in terms of story progression). But the most astonishing accomplishment of this game is how it put me through all these emotions!I cannot even begin to explain how amazingly good this game is. From the story, to the presentation, the art style, the voice acting...and yes even the game-play is very interesting! Even though I finished this in one sitting the game does have replay value(in terms of story progression). But the most astonishing accomplishment of this game is how it put me through all these emotions! Definitely suggest it to anyone who wants a well written story, but I will warn you: If you are looking for game that builds a lot on it's mechanics, this is not it. Personally I proudly would give this game a 9 to 10!… Expand
  31. claytastic
    Feb 10, 2016
    9
    So far I've played three new games in 2016: The Witness, Amplitude, and Firewatch. Out of all three, Firewatch is my favorite, and so far, this year shows much promise. Firewatch is basically like an adult novel that captures the true essence of storytelling in games. Throughout the game, you see very touching moments between your radio buddy, Delilah, and your character, Henry. TheseSo far I've played three new games in 2016: The Witness, Amplitude, and Firewatch. Out of all three, Firewatch is my favorite, and so far, this year shows much promise. Firewatch is basically like an adult novel that captures the true essence of storytelling in games. Throughout the game, you see very touching moments between your radio buddy, Delilah, and your character, Henry. These moments can happen anywhere and at anytime, and they are at the core of this game's way of storytelling. The gameplay is very interesting as well, and it never feels like a walking simulator. In fact, I was always perfectly willing to venture out into the beautiful forest and see where Delilah would assign me to go next. However, the game isn't perfect. In fact, most games I have given a 10 aren't perfect. This games flaw that keeps it from a 10 is it's length. It's only about 4 hours long, so it's a good game for people who want a short experience, but not if you were looking forward to, at most, a 10 hour game.
    Overall, Firewatch is a game that I would recommend to pretty much anyone, unless you want to play something longer. Either way, there's no denying this game is excellent. 9/10.    … Expand
  32. lendoreward
    Feb 10, 2016
    10
    One of the most touching and amazing games I have ever played. Firewatch draws you in right from the beginning. I have never played a game that had this good of voice acting. You actually feel for these characters. You feel their pain, their happiness, and you actually feel scared at some points and alone. I didn't want it to end. I actually felt sad and wanting more when the creditsOne of the most touching and amazing games I have ever played. Firewatch draws you in right from the beginning. I have never played a game that had this good of voice acting. You actually feel for these characters. You feel their pain, their happiness, and you actually feel scared at some points and alone. I didn't want it to end. I actually felt sad and wanting more when the credits started. The ending wasn't what I wanted, but that is ok. It was more like REAL life rather than a halmark movie. Everyone should play this game. My wife is not a gamer at all, but I am going to ask her to play this. I truly believe she will love it. This game will stick with me for a long time and I will replay it sometime in the future. The farther I get from it, the more I think about it and miss it. For those reviews that say, well the ending sucked, the plot sucked, they were wanting a Halmark movie ending with a ton of twists and turns. This is more like a true life adventure with real people and because of that, it makes it feel all that much more real and that is what makes it amazing. Truly a one of a kind experience and I LOVED IT!!… Expand
  33. 345Y
    Feb 10, 2016
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Firewatch ist eines der bewegendsten Spiele der letzten Jahre. Der Cellshading-look verleiht dem Spiel einen besonderen charme, wodurch die insgesamt melancholische Storyline durch die Farbwahl unterstrichen wird. Als Spieler beginnt man selbst zu grübeln was es bedeutet Einsam zu sein, und vor seiner Verantwortung zu fliehen. Und gleichsam zurückgestoßen wird, wenn man merkt, das jemand einem etwas bedeutet. Es bauen sich moralische Widersprüche auf, die gerade durch die eigenen Wahlmöglichkeiten verdeutlicht werden. Wie handelt man selbst, wenn man merkt, dass die Flucht das falsche gewesen ist und das erleidet, was man zurück gelassen hat. Danke für dieses grandiose Spielgefühl!… Expand
  34. mindw0rk
    Feb 10, 2016
    7
    I enjoyed watching walkthrough. Loved atmosphere, graphics style, voice acting and how plot starts. But towards the end something happened and all the mystery went poof. For story based game story felt too simple and straightforward with ending that didnt satisfy me at all. I hope next game from this company will bring a more indepth mystery.
  35. tomasz009
    Feb 10, 2016
    9
    Fantastic game, without being much of a game at all. No real challenge, nor a complex set of skills for your character to perform. However, it is a game where just 'existing' within it is a joy. The setting, theme, plot, and exploration blend together to create such a unique feeling.

    This is one of those games that feels like it was created from true inspiration - a 1:1 realisation of    Fantastic game, without being much of a game at all. No real challenge, nor a complex set of skills for your character to perform. However, it is a game where just 'existing' within it is a joy. The setting, theme, plot, and exploration blend together to create such a unique feeling.

    This is one of those games that feels like it was created from true inspiration - a 1:1 realisation of an idea kicking around a very creative individual. Beautiful. 9.2/10    … Expand
  36. Nightspyz
    Feb 10, 2016
    6
    The game is nothing more than a linear narrated walking simulator , the entire game leans on the premise of really great voice acting but there is little in the way of player choice or any game mechanics , the game builds up a story and quickly deflates it towards the ending which leaves almost no room for questions or any squeals , the game makes you wonder if all it was meant to do isThe game is nothing more than a linear narrated walking simulator , the entire game leans on the premise of really great voice acting but there is little in the way of player choice or any game mechanics , the game builds up a story and quickly deflates it towards the ending which leaves almost no room for questions or any squeals , the game makes you wonder if all it was meant to do is squeeze some cheap emotional conflict from the players , the environments are very pretty but with the limited areas of exploration it all ends up looking the same pretty quick , spending 10% of the time looking at your map and 90% of the time trying to find things you can use the radio to talk about with another faceless human. the game had lots of potential but is too short 3-4 hours if you read everything , doesn't justify the price point , get it on a holiday sale maybe.… Expand
  37. rbeach77
    Feb 10, 2016
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. What a beautiful game, with an incredible start and a total cop out of an ending. What I want to know is did the critics who gave it stella reviews actually play the flipping thing to the end?

    anyway.. disappointing.    … Expand
  38. Crazygamer123
    Feb 10, 2016
    5
    This game was not what I expected.
    It is a short game (if it could be called that at all), at about 3 hours long to complete. It was closer to a novel than a game, and had no challenge elements. It reminded me a lot of the 'Coming Home' game, even though it was a completely different setting and slightly longer. The mystery/ suspense elements, which there wasn't much to speak of, took a    This game was not what I expected.
    It is a short game (if it could be called that at all), at about 3 hours long to complete. It was closer to a novel than a game, and had no challenge elements. It reminded me a lot of the 'Coming Home' game, even though it was a completely different setting and slightly longer. The mystery/ suspense elements, which there wasn't much to speak of, took a back seat to the conversation/relationship between Delilah and Henry.
    If you want to experience a emotional novel like experience, then get the game because this is what it does well. If you want an actual game, DO NOT GET IT! It is no more a game than 'Coming Home' was.
    At the start of the game I enjoyed the natural beauty of the wilderness setting, which was truly beautiful. But by the end, I was so sick of the whole place and just wanted to get out.
    Compared to an open world experience it was very limited. There were many places that were cut off for no reason other than they didn't want you to go there yet (e.g. a rock was in the way). You could no go where you wanted for most of the game for various reasons.
    Overall, I'd give it a 2/10 as a game and a 9/10 as a story/novel experience.    … Expand
  39. willfo
    Feb 10, 2016
    3
    A 2 hour game that amounts to nothing.

    Beautiful and well made, but with a story that could have come from a bad 90's TV movie written by a failed screenwriter working for nickelodeon. Do not be fooled into thinking this game falls into a category with telltale games or Until Dawn, because the story and choice elements are sorely lacking. If you REALLY like the walking-sim style    A 2 hour game that amounts to nothing.

    Beautiful and well made, but with a story that could have come from a bad 90's TV movie written by a failed screenwriter working for nickelodeon.
    Do not be fooled into thinking this game falls into a category with telltale games or Until Dawn, because the story and choice elements are sorely lacking.

    If you REALLY like the walking-sim style genre then this may be worth a buy, otherwise wait for a sale at best.    … Expand
  40. Akolyte01
    Feb 9, 2016
    4
    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.
  41. Sc1ss0rman
    Feb 9, 2016
    9
    A true to life tale.

    Firewatch was one of the most riveting experiences I have ever had in a narrative driven game. The two mains have instant chemistry that carries through to the game's satisfying conclusion. While the game is held back by some minor performance issues and sub-par optimization, you hardly even notice as the game's beautifully painted world and Hank and Delilah's    A true to life tale.

    Firewatch was one of the most riveting experiences I have ever had in a narrative driven game. The two mains have instant chemistry that carries through to the game's satisfying conclusion.

    While the game is held back by some minor performance issues and sub-par optimization, you hardly even notice as the game's beautifully painted world and Hank and Delilah's banter shine through.

    Firewatch is a story that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll and while it seems the game can not please everyone, it will certainly appeal to anyone looking for a good story with an eerie atmosphere.    … Expand
  42. sjcodan
    Feb 9, 2016
    4
    The setup, the pacing, the suspense were all amazing, but that ending actively made me un-enjoy the game. There's so much setup pointing towards things that just don't matter. At all. I don't want to touch spoilers in my review, but lets leave it at this;
    The first third of the game is a 7, the middle third is a 9, and the back third is a -5.
  43. mellowbusiness
    Feb 9, 2016
    5
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Firewatch starts off with an interesting premise, you're in a forest with your only communication being a woman named Delilah, another Firewatcher. The MC's backstory and as to why he became a Firewatcher is also interesting. The graphics are also pretty nice and the game gives you that comfortable feeling while playing it. There are also many interesting plot points brought up, and the halfway segment gets you emotionally invested as the duo finds out their being spied upon.

    Sadly this is where my praise for the game ends. There are so many interesting plot points such as the scattered snow gear, who Deliah was talking to over the other walkie talkie, the missing girls, and even the main plotline, they just go nowhere and the ending makes you feel empty as well. I understand the ending is telling you that you can't just simply run away from your problems, but when everything else in the game just went nowhere, the moral just feels weak and the story feels unfilling (and the fact that it technically wouldn't be running away since the MC's wife has Dementia and can't even remember him) Not to mention the various optimization issues such as framerate drops, constant crashes, frame skips which is just unacceptable at this moment in time. There is also the complete lack of gameplay elements; I understand this is a story based game but there could be at least be a puzzle or two. The dialogue choices barely matter at all and do not contribute to an ending, so if the choices don't matter, why even have them in the first place? Also, for a game that takes place in the wilderness, you only meet 3 animals in the entire game, and two of them are completely optional.

    Overall, this game or "walking simulator" is mediocre, it's not a bad game as it does have its good points, but it's not a good game as well as the optimization issues and the story choices hold it back. I personally think it would have been better if they just focused on the whole firewatching aspect and you meet interesting people and woodland creatures. Maybe some people might like this game, but I sure didn't and it's definetely not worth a full price purchase.    … Expand
  44. jlcfreitas
    Feb 9, 2016
    8
    If you are tired of something, and you want to play anything different, go Play Firewatch and enjoy a good story, funny/serious characters, enjoy the music and the visuals meanwhile you are searching the woods. I really needed a game like this for a long time, just chill and play
  45. Jamtots
    Feb 9, 2016
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The game is great, but is seriously let down by an anticlimactic ending that feels far too... ordinary. It builds up this big mystery and conspiracy only for it all to suddenly deflate and lead nowhere exciting.

    Just like Henry's relationship with Delilah. It just goes nowhere.

    The game pretends to be something it's not for the entirety of its length until the "mystery" is solved, which is going to annoy a lot of people.

    That being said, I still think it deserves a high score because although the destination sucked, the journey there was gorgeous and a lot of fun.    … Expand
  46. jooob3
    Feb 9, 2016
    0
    fredhorrigan SAYS IT BEST!!!! JUST DONT BUY IT IF YOU ARE GONNA SPEND THE MONEY GET UNRAVEL FOR CRYING OUT LOUD!!!!!

    Just another "game" where you have barely any interaction and all you do is walk from point A to point B and interacting with the thing the game tells you to interact with so you'll be able to walk to point C while you choose between a handful of dialogue options that    fredhorrigan SAYS IT BEST!!!! JUST DONT BUY IT IF YOU ARE GONNA SPEND THE MONEY GET UNRAVEL FOR CRYING OUT LOUD!!!!!

    Just another "game" where you have barely any interaction and all you do is walk from point A to point B and interacting with the thing the game tells you to interact with so you'll be able to walk to point C while you choose between a handful of dialogue options that don't change anything.    … Expand
  47. MrChickenfoot
    Feb 9, 2016
    10
    i'm playing this game and i'm feeling so good storytelling or beckgrounds,bgm,graphic texture etc. good
    move on! buy this game! and travel moutain on this way
  48. fredhorrigan
    Feb 9, 2016
    0
    Just another "game" where you have barely any interaction and all you do is walk from point A to point B and interacting with the thing the game tells you to interact with so you'll be able to walk to point C while you choose between a handful of dialogue options that don't change anything.

    The story takes a page from Gone Home where it might look like it's some sort of supernatural    Just another "game" where you have barely any interaction and all you do is walk from point A to point B and interacting with the thing the game tells you to interact with so you'll be able to walk to point C while you choose between a handful of dialogue options that don't change anything.

    The story takes a page from Gone Home where it might look like it's some sort of supernatural mystery or something like that but ends up being a very mundane and very boring.

    SPOILER ALERT: There's no killer or supernatural elements, just a guy trying to spook people because he wants them to leave the forest because he doesn't want anyone to find his dead son's body and the two girls that go missing turn out fine.

    Don't pay money for this **** just watch it on youtube, or even better, watch something less terrible like a movie or a TV show.    … Expand
  49. Daedulos
    Feb 9, 2016
    9
    this is a really great and fun game. i was hooked from beginning to end. only problem i had was the length which wasn't too bad considering the game and content and the anti-climactic ending. but all and all this is an amazing game about nature, mystery, and finding ones self in the woods. i highly recommend this game to anyone who with a PC or PS4. great game. great visuals, greatthis is a really great and fun game. i was hooked from beginning to end. only problem i had was the length which wasn't too bad considering the game and content and the anti-climactic ending. but all and all this is an amazing game about nature, mystery, and finding ones self in the woods. i highly recommend this game to anyone who with a PC or PS4. great game. great visuals, great writing. truly a adventure into the great outdoors.… Expand
  50. slicshuter
    Feb 9, 2016
    3
    The best thing about this game is the visuals. If you came for the visuals and exploration, buy the game, it's probably the prettiest game I've played in the past few years. The environment and art style is beautiful. However, I feel like if you came for the thrilling story, stop playing about 2/3 into the game because after that it starts to fall flat. I can't spoil anything but all I canThe best thing about this game is the visuals. If you came for the visuals and exploration, buy the game, it's probably the prettiest game I've played in the past few years. The environment and art style is beautiful. However, I feel like if you came for the thrilling story, stop playing about 2/3 into the game because after that it starts to fall flat. I can't spoil anything but all I can see is I was pretty disappointed with how the story concluded. The characters were seemingly deep but when you think about it you actually barely learn anything about them after the first hour or so of story, and from there the story itself begins to peak before falling flat at the end.

    Overall, the game kept me entertained for about 5 hours, but I can't help but feel like the story could have been a lot better. 10/10 for visuals, 5/10 for the story. I don't think it's worth £15, but something definitely worth picking up later on in the year when it's on sale.    … Expand
  51. AlkaVirus
    Feb 9, 2016
    3
    Hardly a game, more like a mediocre story-based game trying to show off animation and graphics. Lots of backtracking, uninspiring characters, and cheesy conversation lines. The only redeemable factor is that it shows a glimpse of suspense, but that which quickly dies away.
  52. Ninty
    Feb 9, 2016
    10
    Firewatch is the best game I have played in the last few years. It has stunning visuals, a compelling story, and it is one of the best games to come out in recent history.
  53. Riskyreview
    Feb 9, 2016
    10
    From the writers of Telltale's The Walking Dead Season 1 (A.K.A the best game Telltale will ever make) comes Firewatch!

    Firewatch is the most atmospheric game I have played to date and the only thing this year that might beat it's atmosphere is Mafia 3 but other than that this is going to be the most atmospheric game this year no doubt! The gameplay is a sort of mix between a    From the writers of Telltale's The Walking Dead Season 1 (A.K.A the best game Telltale will ever make) comes Firewatch!

    Firewatch is the most atmospheric game I have played to date and the only thing this year that might beat it's atmosphere is Mafia 3 but other than that this is going to be the most atmospheric game this year no doubt!

    The gameplay is a sort of mix between a Telltale game and a "walking simulator" and the results are incredible!

    Basically if you like mystery, exploration and dialogue choices this is the game for you!    … Expand
  54. amfxc
    Feb 9, 2016
    10
    A thrilling story accompanied by absolutely beautiful artwork. Ever since you start playing the game it will be hard to put down. The conversation you have with the other character is never boring.
  55. Nyxtomania
    Feb 9, 2016
    10
    Its an amazing story giving insight to a lonely fire watcher who chose to live in the wilderness far away from any kind of civilization. The artwork in this game is truly relaxing and beautiful.
    The game is about 5 hours long if you just straight out play the storyline and if you do care about exploration you will be quite happy given that you have the opportunity to freely wander around    Its an amazing story giving insight to a lonely fire watcher who chose to live in the wilderness far away from any kind of civilization. The artwork in this game is truly relaxing and beautiful.
    The game is about 5 hours long if you just straight out play the storyline and if you do care about exploration you will be quite happy given that you have the opportunity to freely wander around in the forests of Wyoming.
    Don´t get me wrong its not an "Open-World" game like you would imagine, its more like a patch-finding and exploring the beauty of the places you are. Sure you could say its open world since you are able to wander around with the only restriction being some tools you need to access some areas but it feels different to other Open World games.

    Anyways, i would recommend this game if you like adventure, mystery and/ or a good story with the voices of the "Tell Tale - Walking Dead" stars.    … 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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