Once in a generation there comes an event: a solar eclipse, the planets align in a perfect order or something else happens that is just absolutely beautiful and fantastic. Firewatch is as close to that near perfection as you’ll ever see.
Whatever you do, do it right
Firewatch is an exclusive example of immersive storytelling combined with intuitive and fun game mechanics. The visuals just enhance the mood and whatever you do, whichever button you press at any specific time in the game – it feels like Firewatch was waiting for you to do it. Going around Wyoming forests without a weapon can be just as beautiful during sunset as it may become terrifying once night replaces day. Wandering around the empty forests is an experience that a few video games in the market today, can offer. That is probably Firewatches’ most powerful tool – immersion and compelling characters. The forests feel stylish and just by watching some of the visuals on the internet you might feel a sudden draw towards it. The greens, yellows, reds, oranges – all play a part in the picture to create a wonderful environment that is both believable and very interesting to explore.
Oh Delilah…
Firewatch has one of the most interesting stories in the video game genre. It revolves around two people
Henry: a newly employed park ranger and carries out the duties of supervising and maintaining order in the park’s territory. He’s a middle aged man with a very recognizable voice although you don’t see him at all as the game is played from a first persons’ perspective.
Delilah: Henry uses a walky-talky to communicate with his supervisor in Firewatch – Delilah. Her and Henry’s relationship dynamics form the main stem of Firewatches’ story.
During the game, a lot of events occur on which, Henry has to report straight to Delilah. The conversations are masterfully written and the sarcastic humor the two main characters share is an example of a unique bond. Yet during the game you encounter many mysteries which shed doubt and disbelief on some things that you might want to believe at first. It all begins when two teenage girls are seen swimming in the lake. From then on, it only gets stranger with stories about: fires, experiments, thievery, fear and many more experiences that prove Firewatches’ value as a story, not just a game. What Remains of Edith Finch and Firewatch share some great traits. Both were awesome games, but they’re more like an interactive cartoon rather than a video game.
In the forest
Once you take control of Henry, you have to uncover the strange secrets surrounding the Wyoming forest. Firewatch draws you in with great story pacing, unique orientation and solitude that isn’t matched by most of the games’ rivals. In terms of gameplay, there isn’t a lot of variety, since it’s a story based game, it’s very linear yet you have a lot of freedom to improvise with the dialogue between Henry and Delilah. From then on, it’s a journey to experience.
The ending
There have been some controversial endings throughout the video game industry’s lifespan. Without putting in any spoilers, Firewatch ending isn’t quite easy to comprehend and understand. A second playthrough might be upcoming after you finish it the first time. The finish just doesn’t answer all of your questions, but after playing it out and living with the ending for some time I start to soak in and realize that not everything has to be clear cut and very straightforward. The ending is mysterious, maybe disappointing, but it isn’t bad. It makes you think about the game later on, that’s for sure.
