The captivating landscapes of Big Walk, featuring vibrant sunsets reflected on gentle waves and bushland valleys full of hidden wonders, create a striking backdrop for this unique gaming experience. The modernist structures perched on rugged ridges contribute to a surreal atmosphere reminiscent of an architectural dream set within the stunning Australian wilderness. However, it is the memorable interactions among players that truly leave a lasting impression. One vivid memory I have is from a dark night filled with the cacophony of cicadas, when I lost sight of my partner. A wave of panic and dread washed over me, until I spotted him in the distance, frantically flicking a massive, spherical lamp on and off. The surroundings transitioned from pitch black to a soft pastel pink, akin to a lone Christmas light blinking in the night.
This type of experience is typical in Big Walk, the delightful and imaginative new cooperative puzzle game developed by House House, the Melbourne-based team renowned for the 2019 sensation, Untitled Goose Game. Instead of donning the role of a mischievous, honking goose, players embody a quirky, long-limbed bird-like character (imagine a Pingu-style figure interpreted by Mondrian) for whom separation from teammates is part of the adventure. This is partly due to the game’s rugged environment, rich with dense vegetation and perilous cliffs, as well as the innovative use of proximity-based voice audio. If you wander too far from your group, communication becomes challenging unless you find a playful walkie-talkie reminiscent of Fisher-Price toys.
In teams of up to 12, players explore this eerily photorealistic open world to unravel its secrets. Along the way, you encounter a range of challenges that range from simple tasks to complex puzzles: for instance, shooting the aforementioned spherical lamp through a hoop or arranging wooden pegs adorned with peculiar, nature-inspired symbols into specific configurations. Successfully completing these tasks earns you large red peanuts, and collecting enough of these rewards grants you a key to unlock vital infrastructure, such as a slow-moving, toy-like train that emits cheerful horns, adding a touch of fun to the otherwise serene landscape.
The gameplay naturally creates a rhythm of intense collaboration followed by leisurely moments of exploration. Given the world’s layout, players often find themselves retracing their steps, which can lead to a slight diminishing of the game’s charm, as the act of walking may become monotonous and occasionally frustrating when navigating rocky terrain. The repetition of traversing the same areas can wear on patience.
Nevertheless, the quieter intervals in Big Walk can be rewarding in their own right. I found myself captivated by the mesmerizing transformation of the night sky into the warm hues of dawn, or pausing to enjoy the soothing sounds of a bubbling creek.
What sets Big Walk apart is its emphasis on teamwork, encouraging players to communicate both verbally and physically to uncover its most enchanting sights. In a time when much online interaction—whether in gaming or social media—has been influenced by attention-grabbing mechanisms, such as the dopamine rush from notifications or the pressure to constantly level up, Big Walk offers a refreshing alternative. It provides a gentler, more nurturing experience designed to foster meaningful connections and evoke a sense of childlike joy.
Another cherished memory involves my brother and me erupting in laughter after we clumsily dropped one of those essential red peanuts into a deep, challenging shaft we had painstakingly navigated. We chatted about our mishap until we were drawn to the next intriguing discovery: rhythmic rave music echoing from deep within a mountain. I won’t spoil the surprises that await you and your friends; they are for you to uncover.
Big Walk is now available for purchase at £15.99 or A$29.50.
