The Art of Hiking in Video Games
Video games have a unique ability to immerse players in experiences that feel almost tangible, and one of the most compelling aspects is the act of hiking through virtual wilderness. From the serene landscapes of Journey to the high-stakes traversal of Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, these games capture the essence of exploration in ways that are both engaging and deeply personal.
The Evolution of Walking Simulators
The concept of walking simulators emerged in the late 2000s and early 2010s, shifting the focus from combat and puzzles to simply moving through an environment. These games emphasized observation, reflection, and immersion, offering a meditative experience that felt more like a cinematic narrative than traditional gameplay. Titles such as Journey and Proteus exemplify this trend, blending environmental storytelling with emotional resonance. While some may argue that these games lack traditional mechanics, they offer something equally valuable: the quiet joy of being present in a space.
Death Stranding 2: A New Era of Exploration
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach represents a bold evolution of the genre. It combines the philosophical depth of a Tarkovsky film with the high-octane action of a Michael Bay movie, creating a game that feels both epic and intimate. Unlike its predecessor, which was more about the physical challenge of traversing treacherous terrain, Death Stranding 2 introduces more action elements, making it a thrilling but less purely exploratory experience. Still, the game’s emphasis on movement and environmental interaction keeps the spirit of the walking simulator alive.
Hiking Through Diverse Worlds
Beyond Death Stranding 2, there are numerous games that celebrate the act of hiking across varied landscapes. Each offers a unique take on the experience:
- A Short Hike – A charming, lighthearted game set in a peaceful mountainside. Players can explore, climb, and enjoy the simple pleasures of nature.
- Firewatch – Set in a fictional version of Wyoming, this game blends stunning environments with a heartfelt story about loss and self-discovery.
- Ghost Recon: Breakpoint – A military shooter that challenges players to navigate dense jungles while evading enemy forces.
- Journey – A minimalist yet emotionally powerful game where the act of movement itself becomes a form of storytelling.
- Lonely Mountains Downhill – A mountain-bike racing game that captures the thrill of speed and the serenity of nature.
- Lushfoil Photography Sim – A relaxing simulation where players take photos of beautiful natural settings, evoking the calm of real-world hiking.
- Proteus – An art house title that reimagines the mechanics of video games, focusing on mood and atmosphere rather than traditional gameplay.
- S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl – A bleak but mesmerizing survival game set in the Chernobyl exclusion zone, where every step is a test of endurance.
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – A groundbreaking open-world game that encourages players to explore freely, with weather and terrain affecting every journey.
- The Long Dark – A brutal survival game that tests players’ resilience in a harsh Canadian wilderness.
- theHunter: Call of the Wild – A hunting simulator that emphasizes the beauty and complexity of natural environments.
The Enduring Appeal of Virtual Hiking
What makes these games so compelling is their ability to evoke the same emotions and sensations that real-world hiking does. Whether it’s the awe of standing atop a mountain, the fear of navigating an unfamiliar landscape, or the solitude of being surrounded by nature, these games tap into universal human experiences. They remind us that even in a digital world, the act of walking through the wilderness can be just as meaningful as it is in reality.
From the tranquil trails of Journey to the perilous journeys of S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2, each game offers a different perspective on what it means to hike. And while the platforms and mechanics may vary, the core experience remains the same: a journey that is as much about the path as it is about the destination.
