Posted on: June 15, 2017

blackstarzero
Zweryfikowany użytkownikGry: 41 Opinie: 2
Decent story & setting, lackluster game
Firewatch has a lot of positive aspects, such as a beautiful art style, great dialogue, an immersive setting, and a great, albeit small ambient soundtrack. However, while Firewatch may look amazing, beneath the shiny veneer is a game that feels empty inside. I've only played a handful of walking simulators, but I’ve had a good time overall with most of these “games” - a term I use very loosely, as there is little actual game play featured in works such as Gone Home and the Vanishing of Ethan Carter. Their focus is on creating an engaging narrative and world for the player to explore. However, if the story, setting, or characters fails to resonate with the player, the game becomes less of an adventure and more of a chore to sit through. This could be said for any genre of video game, but unlike walking simulators, great game play can make up for even the most mediocre, paint-by-numbers story. Which brings us back to Firewatch. I didn't feel the plot was all that compelling. The majority of the game is spent exploring the vast Wyoming wilderness as Henry, talking to a woman named Delilah via radio. The dialogue feels very natural in part thanks to the great voice work, yet, apart from moments of silly banter between the two, the rest of the story is pretty bland. There are some nice moments, but I wish the writers explored the two characters emotions and backstories more deeply. Exposition is told mostly through radio, but not much else. The story also lacks conflict for the protagonists to overcome, and what little trouble there is does nothing to help develop growth, individually or through their relationship. It just happens. Again, this could’ve been mitigated if the game play was fun, but it’s not. You essentially go from point A to B in a slow, linear fashion, occasionally using tools to break up the monotony of walking and listening to the radio about people and issues you won’t care about. Firewatch: a game with a lot of style but not a lot of substance.
Czy to było pomocne?