What a wonderful experience. What a beautiful discovery. What a captivating story. Life isn't always perfect. I suppose a part of what appeals to us so much, as gamers, is the opportunity for escapism that games provide. Not only do we get to be someone else, somewhere else, but usually we get to be someone powerful and awesome; classic wish-fulfillment fantasy. In Firewatch, we assume the role of Henry, a not particularly super individual; in fact, he seems full of the kind of self-doubt to which it is all too easy to relate. I don't think I've ever heard the phrase "Oh, the humanity!" used outside of a sarcastic context except for Herb Morrison's original utterance, but to me, it is precisely the humanity in this game that makes it so gripping. My favourite games of all time are probably "The Witcher" games, and I have an incredible affinity for Geralt of Rivia, perhaps precisely because he is so much more human (in all his inhumanity) compared to more archetypical hero characters. Henry, of Firewatch, is infinitely human, fragile and fallible, and getting to know him (in which process you'll also get to know Deliliah) was a touching experience. This game is probably not for everyone. There should be enough negative reviews to suggest that you give it a miss and look somewhere else. Properly forewarned by those, you now also have read a review telling you that this game might be just the kind of experience you need. In a sentence, when they say "for mature audiences" and they aren't talking about showing you exposed breasts, they might have had something like this in mind.
This was easily one of the most visually pleasing games in existence when it was first released, and thanks to having its own unique style -- think of Team Fortress 2 which in appearance aims for a distinct "look and feel" rather than symmetry and realism -- as well as hauntingly beautiful music (for which people are still today hunting for the soundtrack, you can find clips on YouTube -- "Wods of Light" is probably my own favourite) this title easily stands the test of time. I wouldn't even hesitate about this one. Buy it today!
