The Path

Video games are supposed to help you have a good time and relax, but that’s not always the case, especially if they feature a competitive multiplayer mode. Hence, some developers prefer to make the relaxation part the central piece of the puzzle, even if all the other components suffer in the process. Walking simulators are a pretty new invention, but they certainly have a future.

The Path is a walking simulator with colorful graphics and a very relaxed atmosphere, in which your only goal is to keep moving and admire the scenery. There’s a light story underneath all the walking, but don’t expect too much in this regard. In fact, you are free to imagine whatever you want, so it really depends on how you are feeling whenever you are playing the game.

However, this is not a free roam game, since you have to follow a very strict road, as the name clearly implies. There’s usually nothing but nature around you, which includes trees, an ocean and a few lovely meadows, but the adventure starts in a wooden cabin. It should be easy to get into the proper mood, especially thanks to all the calming colors around you at all times.

Since there are no puzzles and no actual gameplay to worry you along the way, it’s all about the atmosphere and the level design. The controls matter as well, but all you have to do is move around, which is achieved with the classic WASD keys. You can also use the Shift key to run, but the difference in speed is not that great, so it’s not very helpful most of the time.

Lastly, the graphics are the most important element in a walking simulator, along with the level design of course. Everything is well in this regard, especially when it comes to the colors and how cozy and inviting every type of environment looks. There are many screenshot opportunities along the way, and you can actually stop to meditate at some of the views, even if there’s nothing particularly memorable about them.

In the end, The Path is more of a meditation tool than an actual game, but more can come of it with enough work from the developers. However, you can have plenty of fun with it right now as well, depending on your expectations and understanding of the genre.