The co-operative puzzle game Big Walk has delivered an emotional gut punch to one player, transforming what was already a highly regarded multiplayer experience into something far more profound. For the vast majority of its 16-hour runtime, Big Walk provided ample opportunity for laughter and collaborative problem-solving, with players working together to overcome inventive puzzles and celebrate successes with bursts of confetti. This shared journey made it one of the most enjoyable co-op games experienced by the player and their children. However, the game's final three minutes are what elevated it to potential Game of the Year consideration.
A Bittersweet Parting
Following an hour or two that introduced a significant gameplay twist, the game's conclusion presented a unique scenario. After the credits rolled, the player and their children, aged 13 and 7, approached a final bridge. Among the usual turnstile doors found throughout the game, one stood apart. Instead of a puzzle, a nearby button offered wordless instructions that the player interpreted as a call for a sequential departure. The turnstile illuminated with colors corresponding to each player's character, indicating they would pass through one at a time.
The first to be called was the player's daughter. As she passed through the gate, the player and their son realized they could not follow. The implication was clear: after hours of close cooperation, relying on each other's patience and ingenuity, they were being asked to separate. A short distance away, a misty passageway awaited her, signaling the end of their proximity chat range. The player's heartfelt farewell, filled with love and gratitude for her help, felt remarkably real, despite the children being in the same house.
The player's son was the next to depart, followed by a similarly emotional goodbye. This moment, akin to watching one's children leave home for the first time, mirrored the player's recent experiences with parenting milestones, such as allowing their son to trick-or-treat independently or their daughter attending playdates solo. These necessary steps in a child's growth, while difficult for parents, represent a beautiful, albeit fast-paced, progression.
A Solitary Reflection
Finally, the player was the last to pass through the turnstile. The solitary nature of this final passage allowed for a moment of quiet reflection on the journey shared. The challenging puzzles overcome, the reliance on teamwork, and the unique experience of playing with children of different ages all contributed to the game's impact. The player acknowledged that the developers, House House, might not have anticipated a seven-year-old being the first to complete their game outside of the credited developers. Standing alone, the palpable absence of their children's voices created a void, filled only by the gratitude for the memories made. Big Walk, initially understood as a co-op puzzle game, became a poignant exploration of growing up and the evolving parent-child relationship, leaving an indelible mark.