my only complaints for this game is that it was too short and the ending wasn't as satisfying as i hoped it would be, though i fully understand that both of those things were conscious decisions made by the developer.

while the characters, story and gameplay were all so engaging (anyone who knows me knows i love my walk 'n talk games), i think the reasons this game stuck out to me were everything but those things. i find the setting so appealing--you're alone in this national park where you're free to explore, find new paths and landmarks, take photos and chat with your radio companion about interesting things you find. there isn't anything overly exciting going on and you're alone with your thoughts most of the time, surrounded by complex environments simplified by the gorgeous art style, occasionally backed by a calming acoustic soundtrack. firewatch deviates from being a typical walking simulator by giving it's setting great amounts of personality through little details you can find supported by henry and delilah's fun back-and-forth commentary. the mystery that you investigate throughout the game is intriguing but as i mentioned earlier the climax and ending to it all doesn't end up being as interesting as you may think. i would recommend going into this game not expecting anything overly bombastic, and instead just enjoy it as a grounded character study backed up by relaxing elements in gameplay, setting and style.