During the early days of Firewatch’s development, Washington-based indie studio Campo Santo made a point of speaking to real fire lookouts to get a sense of what it’s like to be stationed for months on the end, deep in a North American forest. “Why would you make a game out of this job?” some of their interviewees would say. “It’s the most boring job in the world.” And yet, despite that rather eye-opening reality check, the studio went away and created one of the most memorable games of this current generation.
Released back in 2016, Firewatch is many things – tense, intriguing, charming and a little frustrating – but it’s never, ever boring. It’s a walking simulator and proud of it, but it tells a very specific story about a very specific person as they attempt to cope with the heartbreaking truths that are defining their very specific life. It’s heartfelt, silly, unsettling and beguiling all in the space of its roughly six hours of story. It’s not perfect, and there are some noticeable technical sacrifices to justify its existence on Switch, but it’s no less essential.
The poignancy of Firewatch’s story is best enjoyed from start to finish on your own terms, so we won’t reveal the details of what drives main character Henry to take a fire lookout job at Shoshone National Forest in the northwest of Wyoming. However, we will say that even through a simple series of text-based screens in its prologue, Campo Santo manages to swiftly invest you in a story that tackles a subject we’ve never really seen in games before, deftly pulling at your heartstrings without too much cliche.
Henry takes the job to escape, but time hasn’t ground to a halt outside of the forest’s edge, and Firewatch sees him faced with unravelling a mystery amid the trees, rocks and rivers while coming to terms with the painful truths about himself and his loved ones. It also happens to be 1989, and with the worst forest fires in Yellowstone’s history having only occurred one year prior, the job of sitting in a tower and looking out for any smoke among the ferns becomes a very real responsibility.
The joy of Firewatch is how effortlessly it mingles the mundane and the mysterious into one immersive package. You’ll head down to a lake to discourage some drunken teens from setting off fireworks, collecting cans of beer and picking up supplies from cache boxes, but then stumble on some increasingly strange sites in the woods. Who is that stranger roaming the forests at night, and why is there a secret government facility in the middle of nowhere? The game never strays into survival horror territory, but it effectively uses its sense of isolation to create moments of palpable tension.
However, it’s the game’s script and the chemistry between Henry and Delilah – the lookout in another watchtower who serves as his disembodied guide – that keeps the story’s heart beating so fiercely. Connected to Henry via chunky walkie-talkie, the dialogue that’s exchanged by actors Rich Sommer and Cissy Jones is delivered so naturally and with so much subtle nuance that you really begin to invest in the unconventional friendship that blooms between them. Even with its branching dialogue choices, Henry is still snarky and snappy while Delilah hides her vulnerability behind sarcasm. As the two warm to one another, you get a real sense of the palpable character development at play.
As a port, Firewatch on Nintendo Switch is actually a lot smoother and far less choppy than the versions that appeared on PC and other consoles over two years ago. The original version had a tendency to chug or suffer moments of inopportune slowdown, and while it didn’t spoil the memorable storytelling the game presented, it did take off a little bit of its shine. There’s still the occasional bit of chug here – especially if you’re sprinting through the forest while playing in handheld mode – but for the most part, this portable iteration of Firewatch has been nicely optimised. There’s some pop-in and a little reduction in asset quality here and there, but this is, nevertheless, the full game in all its late ’80s glory. Loading times can take a little too long in places, but it’s not a deal breaker.
The Nintendo Switch port also benefits from the game’s September 2016 update, which patched in an audio commentary mode not too dissimilar to the one used in fellow walking simulator, Gone Home. Across the park, Henry will come across lots of stations containing cassette tapes. Via your very ’80s Walkman, you’ll get to hear (and see via some notice-boards adorned with concept art) some of the stories behind certain areas in the game, including building tension through the poignant soundtrack and how certain seemingly inconsequential sections caused Campo Santo serious developmental headaches. It’s the kind of extra that’s perfectly suited to this kind of game, and it really adds to a second playthrough.
Conclusion
It really doesn’t matter that Firewatch came out over two and a half years ago, because it’s just as engrossing and enchanting as it was the first time around. From the warm glow of its forests in the morning summer light to the subtle tension of exploring a rocky gorge in the isolating silence of night, Shoshone National Forest is a character in its own right. With a story that’s both funny and heartbreaking – and enhanced by some brilliant performances by its two central actors – this is an essential purchase, irrespective of whether you're playing it for the first time on Switch or simply using it as an excuse to revisit an old favourite.
Comments 68
It's a game, I love it, I have it on PC and I'll buy it on Switch.
I’ve been wanting to play this since it first came out, but never got round to it. Still think if, or when, I do finally buy it, it’ll be on either PS4 or Xbox One where it’s bound to be cheaper. Though it’s tempting to have it on the Switch so can play it at work during Christmas week.
On the wishlist. But plenty to play for now.
@FragRed I would say do NOT play this one at work. It really deserves your full attention. This is a headphones in bed game.
Never played it but ive wanted too for a long time, guess ill pick it up.
After the disappointment of Gone Home I won't be going near this one. That game actually put me in a bad mood and left me annoyed at the reviewers who praised it and convinced me I was in for a special experience.With Layers of Fear being one of my favourite gaming experiences of the last few years I thought I'd be one of those who "got" Gone Home but nope,instead I will remember it as one of the most regrettable purchases I've ever made.
I just got Smash, Gris, Guacamelee 1 and 2, and Everspace. STAHP.
@IHateTombs Often times it's hard to call these "games", though the term "walking simulator" should not be considered derogatory. Of all the walking sims this and A Stanley Parable would be the ones I am interested in (I already played the latter though).
@FragRed can usually be grabbed for 4.99 on every other console. I'm expecting this to not be much under 15 quid on switch. We always have to pay over the odds for old games.
Got this on PC and would recommend to anyone that likes good stories and doesn't mind light gameplay. I won't double dip though as I think it's a one time experience.
@OorWullie that's like saying because I didn't like skyrim I won't play the witcher. 2 different developers 2 different games.
@Jester151 It is kind of but at the same time it is a very specific type of game. A short story based walking simulator with a weak ending. Every review I've read of it, it's compared to Gone Home, that's what's putting me off. Oxenfree, while different was another highly praised waking simulator that really disappointed me. As I said, I loved Layers of Fear and there was very little gameplay in that so I'm open to walking simulators. Inside, Limbo and the Gris I also thoroughly enjoyed,although they're more 'gamey'.
I got this game on PS4 and for some reason, was not impressed by it. The story seems go, but the constant flashbacks...and then not knowing where to go...became annoying. Still though, not a bad game, but I think I'll hold off on double-dipping on this one.
Great. I want it.
Everybody's Gone To The Rapture was my GOTY that year, but this just does not seem up to the same standards. Am I being unfair? Has anybody here played both?
For me, a story with a bad ending is a bad story
@Ooyah I did play both, and I enjoyed both. I can understand why the grand finale of Firewatch did not go down well with some players, but for me the narrative while I was playing was more important and compelling than the end result. I thoroughly enjoyed the game.
Great game, but I'd suggest waiting for a sales for anyone looking to pick it up it's a decently short game. Also i disagree on a bad ending, I think that it just brings you to expect something more than what happens, but not that it's necessarily a bad ending.
@OorWullie this is nothing like gone home. there's quite a bit more interactivity and exploration in this game. you're doing yourself a disservice by ignoring it, at least for these reasons.
@IHateTombs Walking sims are games by pretty much every accepted definition of the word. With that said, I've only enjoyed a few of the myriad walking sims I've played. The Stanley Parable and P.T. both lean into the "strengths" of that genre and are, for me, head-and-shoulders above other games in that genre.
@OorWullie What didn't you like about Gone Home? Is it at least worth playing at a hefty sale. I'm guessing it's like playing a movie and then there's nothing left to do?
Good, so it is worth it (to me and what I like, anyway). Looking forward to playing it and Gone Home ONE day lol
Is free roam mode included ?
The developers have annoyed me a few times, but I sure want to play this game. Always been fascinated by fire towers, I love the aesthetics of the game, and the few minutes of the game when it first appeared on PS4 looked really intriguing.
High on my wish list and I'll get to it one of these days.
@IHateTombs Fun fact, EGttR is one of my favorite "games" this generation. The coordination of the story reveals and the gorgeous soundtrack had me replaying it multiple times, despite the goofily slow movement speed.
Good game. It really did make me feel like I was that character and the sense of mystery kept me engaged throughout.
> It’s not perfect, and there are some noticeable technical sacrifices to justify its existence on Switch, but it’s no less essential
I enjoy my Switch, but after getting a PS4 (my first) on Black Friday this year, I'm starting to cringe when I hear lines like that in reviews, due to their inescapable frequency.
If I ask myself, would I rather play a watered-down/less-"powerful" version of a game on the go a couple years later (often at a significantly higher cost) or the original games at full-power on a big TV (and often deeply discounted), I'm realizing more and more that it's the latter.
Unless we're talking Switch-exclusives, I guess for me there's only so far "But it's portable!" can be used to validate the Switch's increasingly sloppy-seconds library.
I was enjoying that review and it's spoiler-free respect for prospective players, until it let on about a secret government facility. Not so secret now
@IHateTombs @Fafounet
Thanks guys, it sounds like I should give it a go! I loved the atmosphere and mystery of Rapture... there was something enthralling and compelling about it. Thanks for the Gone Home tip too!
Personally I thought the ending was poor...
@Morgan19 ... And then you'll get a PS5 in a few years or a high end PC tomorrow, and wonder why you bothered with PS4, etc...
Sure, if you have both consoles, and primarily play on TV - then go with PS4. Or whatever is cheaper. That's a tangible benefit with launching earlier, as the games are usually cheaper.
But this is not a switch technical issue. Software will always run better on better hardware.
The question should be - is the game fun?
@Morgan19
That’s fine. That’s how they balance out for you. However portability is a huge thing for many people, judging by the sales of Handheld systems over the years. There is considerable value in having a game on the go, whether it’s (rolls eyes) sloppy seconds or not, and that’s enhanced by being able to carry on with the same game at home.
I've already got it from GOG for my PC, but I might double dip if it goes on sale.
I am pretty hyped for this one myself. It will definitely be getting a sale from me at some point.
I played this on PS4 to the end over the course of a day. It's a truly great experience.
Yet another game for the eShop wish list. I watched part of a playthrough when it came out and enjoyed what I did see; the only reason I didn't watch it to the end was to keep some of it unspoiled.
Amazing game, play with headphones.
Seems like these types of "games" would be best experienced in VR, where you at least have a bit of immersion in the world instead of just walking around with a controller.
Think I'll get this one. Still thinking of buying a PS4 though so not sure if I'll buy but it for that instead.
There is a free roam version and a commentary version. I heard both are worth at least a second play through. Also the developers said there are a couple Switch surprises but I wouldn’t expect to much with surprises.
Firewatch made me cry.
Getting a Physical option would be nice then I can go out to the forest and try my luck forest watching.
Personally think the ending gets a lot of unnecessary grief. Play this game as genuinely how you would approach human relationships/interactions, not how you would to get the best outcome in a game. Investigate everything and enjoy the aesthetic. If you like experiences that are light on gameplay mechanics but challenge how people think/feel, then give this a bash. The Eta James track at the end is the best piece of music in a game, ever!!
Without a doubt one of my favourite games of all time
@OorWullie I’m with you on gone home. I accidentally finished it in 45 mins. I was dumbfounded that that could happen. When the credits rolled I was just staring at the screen in disbelief. This however is completely different. It is an essential purchase for someone like yourself who has been playing games for many a year. It’s a superb experience and I can’t stress enough how much I love it. Along with Edith Finch, it’s one of my favourite games of the last few years. I picked it up for a fiver on the PS4 and due to its length I would say that full price is probably too much. It’s essentially like playing a long film. When it hits a sale I strongly recommend that you get it. 👊
@Spoony_Tech I didn’t like the fact that the credits rolled after 45 mins of playing it as I accidentally found the supposedly super hidden room with that key, I’m still in disbelief to this day that it was even possible.
@darthstuey So it's sounding more and more like a heavy discount like 75% off or more then. Thanks for a response.
I was really looking forward to this game, but found it utterly boring. There simply isn’t much going on and I found the gameplay too boring to continue past about 2 hours of game play. I’m into all sorts of games, have a very open mind...but this was just too boring to keep my attention.
It seems like they really love their boring walking simulators around here.
Long time reader, even longer time developer (worked at Sony in the 90’s. Made a great living off my own titles thereafter). Signed up to say this game is phenomenal. I don’t play much beyond the Nintendo first party stuff these days. But Firewatch. Whoa.
Have it on PS4. Loved it so much it made me buy an RV where I now spend a quarter the year each year travelling with my fam. Double dipped ASAP. Been in touch with Cabel (one of the awesome devs) about a PSVR version for ages now but no luck!
The ending to me was wonderful. My partner and myself played it enamoured with the story. We were both expecting wildly different endings but in the end it was nothing what we expected, and we loved it for that! Really got us talking during and after like when you watch a killer film. Cannot fault it.
The devs are also wonderful. Very weird someone here said they annoyed (likely) him. They’re very nice, decent, smart folk. I know far right/weirdo gamergate type people were irked by them as those types usually are by normal people.
Oh! Comparisons to Gone Home (which was also sublime! I know again that certain regressive groups didn’t like the story. For me it reminded me of a friend in the 90’s that found out they were gay and their parents were not happy. Almost like it was their story, gave me a whole new appreciation and desire to be a good person) and Rapture. Where I was engrossed enough to finish Firewatch and Gone Home, as much as I liked Rapture I never finished it. It was nice plodding around an old village like the one I grew up in but it didn’t hook me like those other two.
If you have a PS4 get the Firewatch dynamic theme. Since getting that I haven’t changed my PS4 theme
Cheerio!
Um, sorry, but walking simulators are boring by their very definition. Those lookouts are right. Why would you want to play something like this or anything in this sorry excuse of a so called genre?! Heck, they barely even qualify as actual "games!" If I just want a good story, I'll read a book or watch a movie. I play video games to actually, you know, "play games."
I enjoyed this on PS4 but would not label it as essential, the story is pretty slow and didn't start to get interesting to me until the later half of the game. Once it did it was fun though but I would not pay full price for the game, maybe half off.
@Mynameishello
"The devs are also wonderful. Very weird someone here said they annoyed (likely) him. They’re very nice, decent, smart folk. I know far right/weirdo gamergate type people were irked by them as those types usually are by normal people."
Painting with a really really broad brush there...
I love the part where people are supposedly "far right" when they are "irked" by a dev team abusing the DMCA system to retroactively claim false copyright violations when their website clearly states that they allow and invite people to stream and record their game...
But for someone with a "desire to be a good person" as you yourself said, wouldn't that include not generalizing people like that?
Cheap, political potshots and wild generalizations because people might not have liked a game you did or dislike a dev you liked probably doesn't really help you achieve that desire...
Never ended up picking this up when it was was new, but I am more than happy to pick it up now! Looking forward to finally playing this one!
I'm so sick of games being rated high because of story. It's not a f***ing movie. I skip every cut scene I can when playing a game. So basically this is not a game at all. Nor is it a movie. So it's just a long cut scene. Skip!
This is such an amazing game/experience! Recently bought and played it on PS4 during a sale and enjoyed every moment of it.
The only downside (on PS4) is the framerate. Every now and then, the framerate drops dramatically.
Thinking on getting the Switch version as well when it'll be on a sale or something. It's a great game, but not €19,99 great imo.
@Morgan19
I wouldn't call the Switch's library 'sloppy seconds'. There are a lot of old ports due to the system being kind of late to the party, which does cause a price descrepency with some games. There are also some technical limitations, but on the whole they're quite impressive for a machine thats about a tenth of the size and has about 40% less power than the PS4.
You'll probably find the PS4 exciting as its all new to you. Ours isnt so fortunate as it only got used for a total of 2 weeks this year (Spiderman). The rest of our gaming has been on the Switch, Xbox One X and Wii U. I weigh the strengths of multiplats and pick the platform accordingly (usually Switch for portability/features or One X for 4K), but regardless of what system you're playing on its good to have options.
@Spoony_Tech I couldn't recommend it to you even if it had 90% off,such was my dislike of it. I don't recall ever being left as annoyed by a game as I did with that. It just ends with a whimper and leaves you thinking 'is that it?'. I expected some sort of twist with the story that would leave me pondering it after the game finished, instead I was left feeling annoyed I'd wasted 2 hours of my life playing through it.
@OorWullie So at best a YouTube walk through then? Strange how so many seem to like it that review it but then they might not of had to pay for it either.
@Spoony_Tech Yeah and honestly a lot of critics seem to be in their own little world. I have been finding the critics here harder and harder to relate to as they seem to review artsy and statement indie games higher and higher. Games that I actually enjoy and have fun with don't get the best reviews here while games that get the best reviews are games that I struggle to enjoy and usually regret buying. First party Nintendo seems to be the exception but even then they seem to overrate a number of games that just don't do anything for me.
"It really doesn’t matter that Firewatch came out over two and a half years ago"
No, it doesn't, because not everyone has played every game ever. I had never even heard of this game before reading this review, but now I'm convinced that it needs to be on my Switch. Hurray for being oblivious!
I enjoyed Firewatch a lot but not enough to double dip. I hope it sells well though. I want more and more indies to be ported to Switch.
@premko1 it is so!
It's 5/10 at best. Very poor performance on Switch, frames dropping significantly all over the place. For what this game offers visually, it's absolutely unacceptable. Plot is just alright, I was expecting a twist but ended up disappointed with the bland ending. It feels like I wasted 5 hours to be honest.
This seems like a good game format for telling a story. I know technology is at the point that you can have thousands of people online in a game but can you actually feel emotionally vested in every single one of those?
@Sampras This will take you on an emotional rollercoaster
Currently playing it on Switch. I want to love the game because of its charming visuals and thrilling storyline, but the performance on this version is so bad it's making it difficult at times.
Plus, I just lost 30 minutes of playing time due to a game-breaking bug on Day 77 that has been around since 2016 (5 years!) and still isn't fixed despite being mentioned hundreds or thousands of time online.
Given the success of this game, it's a shame the developers and Nintendo allowed such a broken game to be released on the eShop.
I have completed the game ones, and really is in doubt how I should "Judge" the title. As an experience it is great. It has One of the best stories encountered in any game (only the original Gabriel Knight way back from 1993 is close), and the way it is told, by picking pieces up here and there, which you have to put togheter is kind of laying a puzzle. It has an Fantastic atmosphere, and Sound effects/speak second to none. Especially the Wholeness (maybe wrong term), is a pleasure.
But as a game, where you are challenged, can make choise which matters, been frustrated, and trying out different tactics, I'm a little disapointed. There is a little exploration-element, where you have to navigate by map and compas, but I wish there could be a 'hard mode' where you wouldn't was as guided, as the game nearly is insisting on. There are - as far as I can read on the net - some secret you can discover, but I would have loved been intrigued to those by some hints in the game. (Maybe the hints is there, and I haven't found them yet. But I have "solved" minimum 1 secret, which there were no hint for, at all.
I do hope, Campo Santo make there next title a little more challinging, but by developing the Walking sim, to be more Challenging but with "the same" experience value.
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