Climbing Every Pixelated Mountain with 'A Short Hike'
An indie gem that elevates casual gaming to new heights.
last updated Nov 15, 2023
It’s a game that soars above the noise of AAA titles, not with the fiery rockets of modern graphics and billion-dollar budgets, but on the whimsical wings of simplicity and joy.
Boots, Beaks, and Joysticks
Embarking on 'A Short Hike' is less about the actual summit and more about the journey itself. With gameplay that is as intuitive as it is satisfying, players guide Claire, our feathered protagonist, through a myriad of wholesome activities and interactions. Fluttering and parkouring around the picturesque Hawk Peak Provincial Park is streamlined and relaxing. The game's introduction of the golden feather mechanic, akin to getting an extra spring in your step, transcends traditional platform constraints, allowing an effortless mix of ground-pounding and wing-flapping exploration. Even the absence of a map, which might sound like a cardinal sin in an exploration game, somehow adds charm to the experience because getting lost has never felt this delightful.
Good Vibes Frequency
Dialing the chill factor up to an eleven, 'A Short Hike's audio envelope wraps you in aural comfort. Whether it’s the soothing pluck of a ukulele or the ambient sounds of wildlife and waterfalls, the soundtrack offers a therapeutic reprieve from the chaos of the world. You know, like the digital equivalent of a cabin retreat minus the mosquitoes. It’s all about those cozy vibes, and the game nails it, ensuring every auditory morsel contributes to a harmonious symphony of tranquility. The game's sound design complements its visual storytelling beautifully, creating an all-encompassing atmosphere that will likely leave you pining for the fjords... or at least the digital ones.
Putting the 'Art' in 'Pixel Art'
Would it be too much to say that 'A Short Hike' is to eyes what hot chocolate is to taste buds? Probably not, because this game serves up one visual comfort dish after another with its pixel art aesthetic. The art style manages to be both simple and expressive, telling as much of a story as the snappy dialogue does. Performance-wise, the game is smoother than a penguin on ice, which is pretty impressive considering the deceptively expansive world. No need for a monster rig here - just the will to appreciate the serenity and palette of a quieter gaming experience. And fear not, pixel purists, the game allows for some tweaking, so you can find that visual sweet spot between retro and high-def.
A Hike Free of Thorns
In a world where every other game tries to be something 'more', 'A Short Hike' stands out by knowing exactly what it is—a jaunty escape into a digital retreat. The developer, Adamgryu, dodges the pitfalls of cramming in unnecessary complications, instead delivering a game that’s as endearing as it is brief. A notable absence of traditional game frustrations—no overwrought inventory system, no impossibly complex puzzles, just a smorgasbord of delightful encounters and liberating gameplay. Plus, the game's knack for humor ensures that any shortcomings (like those tumultuous boat controls) are easily forgiven, if not entirely overlooked, in light of its abundant charm.
A Social Butterfly's Playground
While technically a single-player adventure, 'A Short Hike' has a multiplayer's heart. The island’s inhabitants harbor enough personality and subplot to fill any community chat room. From beachstickball aficionados to treasure-hunt enthusiasts, the cast makes sure you'll never hike alone. Interactions are snappy, authentic, and refreshingly non-repetitive—a rarity in the genre. And let's face it, any game that offers a cooperative experience on hitting a beach ball across a net rather than competing? That’s not only forward-thinking; it's friendship goals right there. It's like the developer knew that even in a single-player game, we're all just looking for a little companionship.
STEAM RATING
Developer & Publisher
adamgryu
Release Date
July 30, 2019
The Verdict
On the grand console of life, 'A Short Hike' might be just a blip—a pleasantly brisk breath of pixilated fresh air. It’s a game that soars above the noise of AAA titles, not with the fiery rockets of modern graphics and billion-dollar budgets, but on the whimsical wings of simplicity and joy. Much like its in-game currency leaves and shells, you don’t need to shell out big bucks for an experience worth treasuring; sometimes, the most priceless memories come wallet-friendly. It's a game that proves brevity can be the soul of not just wit, but also fun. Indubitably, a 'short' but undoubtedly sweet journey that I can’t help but recommend wholeheartedly. Brevity has never felt so expansive.
