Jokull

Although modern games are designed to be as complex as possible in almost every way, sometimes it’s a lot more fun to relax with a simple game. Walking simulators gained a lot of popularity recently, mainly because they are much easier to develop with engines like Unity or Unreal Engine 4. Hence, it takes considerably less effort to create beautiful worlds, even if the development team is very small.

Jokull is a first-person exploration game that can be savored in a matter of minutes, although it’s also possible to lose yourself for hours if you need a cozy place to think and relax. While there is no story to give meaning to the environment, there are certain elements that form a weak narrative, so you can look closer at the landscape in order to unravel what may have happened there.

To begin with, you start in what appears to be a campsite, and you are free to start roaming as you please. It’s worth noting that the map is anything but open to exploration, however, given the fact that there are only a handful or linear paths you can follow. There are even invisible walls in place to stop you from straying too far, which is a bit of a bummer.

There are no actual objectives to complete either, even if you can find rather interesting items along the way. Since you cannot pick them up or use them in any way, there are no puzzles either. Although this is normal in a walking simulator, the major drawback is the fact that usually you are not forced to follow linear paths in an exploration game, which unfortunately happens in Jokull.

Lastly, the graphics are by far the best part of the game, especially since the environments feel very cozy and enjoyable. While the map is pretty small, the landscape is full of interesting objects and landmarks, so there is always something to look at. Thanks to UE4, the lighting effects are great, and the textures are very neat as well for the most part.

All things considered, Jokull is not as polished as other exploration games out there, but then again it is entirely free and designed by only two students. Hence, it’s worth a shot if you need ideas for your own project or you just want to take a stroll through Norway.