The cooperative game Big Walk has emerged as a standout title, praised not only for its thoughtful puzzles and unique player interactions but also for its surprisingly evocative soundtrack by Australian duo aksfx. Despite its infrequent appearances, the music significantly enhances the game's atmosphere and emotional resonance.
Big Walk does not feature a continuous soundtrack. Instead, its music is intentionally sporadic, appearing in select moments that cut through the game's ambient silence. This deliberate sparseness makes the musical interludes feel more impactful. The soundtrack, comprising nearly 30 tracks, employs ethereal, pulsing beats and distinctive vocalizations that, while potentially unsettling on paper, create a sense of airy exploration and discovery.
Much of the music is discovered by players seeking out scattered radio stations within the game world. These stations offer an immersive, spatial audio experience, allowing players to appreciate the intricate details of each track. The notes suggest these radio locations serve as moments of respite and can punctuate significant in-game events, such as a sunrise, creating scenes akin to emotional climaxes in slice-of-life anime.
Adding another layer of interactivity, players can detach these radios from their stations and attach them to companions' backpacks, transforming them into mobile boomboxes. This feature allows the music to be carried throughout the game world, providing a personal soundtrack. The decision to allow players to carry these musical elements, and the subsequent reluctance to part with them, highlights the soundtrack's integration into the gameplay experience.
The game's main theme, the first piece of music encountered, is noted for its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia, even before players fully engage with the game. Upon completion of Big Walk, this theme reportedly carries even greater emotional weight, bringing players to tears.
The music of Big Walk is described as a significant contributor to the game's overall coziness and emotional impact. The soundtrack, much like the game's core mechanics and player characters, appears simple on the surface but reveals considerable depth upon closer examination. The duo aksfx has been credited with creating a truly special auditory experience that complements the game's unique design and narrative.
