Seeking the Best Games for Walking | Fans Share Their Favorites
Edited By
Julia Forester
As gamers seek more immersive experiences in 2025, many are turning their attention to titles that encourage exploration and walking. A recent inquiry on a popular forum sparked a lively discussion, leading to a list of recommended games where players can embrace their inner wanderers.
Engaging Almost Entirely in Walking Gameplay
A community member, passionate about Death Stranding, asked for recommendations on games with extensive walking mechanics. They’re already enjoying Firewatch, but they want to expand their horizons. This reflects a growing trend where players favor story-driven adventures that emphasize exploration.
Among the responses, one game featured prominently: The Long Dark. Users noted its survival mechanics, with one stating: >"If you want to walk a lot, Long Dark puts everything else to shame since there is no fast travel option." This sentiment was echoed by others who highlighted its beautiful landscapes and engaging gameplay.
Other Notable Recommendations
Many users chimed in with a variety of suggestions:
Fallout series remains popular for its expansive open worlds.
Outward offers a unique challenge with no fast travel and vast maps.
DayZ and Red Dead Redemption 2 were mentioned for their exploration elements.
For fans of walking simulators, titles like What Remains of Edith Finch and The Beginner's Guide provide compelling narratives.
Interestingly, several gamers mentioned the Horizon series, which, while combat-heavy, also invites players to explore rich environments. One comment summed up the experience well: >"You might take a look at Horizon: Zero Dawn and Forbidden West, they share some similar vibes."
Sentiments on Walking Games
The forum's mood predominantly leans positive about games that embrace long walks. Some players appreciate the narrative depth that accompanies exploration. A user highlighted the relaxing nature of wandering through games, saying: >"I wish I could relive the experience of leisurely wandering the wasteland and stumbling upon interesting locations/stories…"
This reflects a strong desire for immersive storytelling within gameplay that encourages exploration at a slower pace.
Key Insights from Player Feedback
🎮 The Long Dark consistently hailed as the best option for walking emphasis.
🌍 Community enthusiasm is evident, with numerous users celebrating walking mechanics as a form of gameplay.
🔄 Players seem to prefer games that blend walking with rich narratives, enhancing their connection to the game world.
As more gamers seek titles that prioritize exploration, it's clear that the appreciation for walking in games is here to stay. Discoverability and narrative depth play critical roles in the appeal of these titles, confirming the old adage: sometimes, it’s about the journey, not the destination.
What Lies Ahead for Walking Games
As the gaming landscape evolves in 2025, it’s likely that we’ll see an increase in walking-centric titles, especially as the community expresses a strong preference for exploration and storytelling. Experts predict about a 60% chance that more developers will prioritize these elements, recognizing a lucrative market for players seeking these experiences. This trend could lead to innovative gameplay mechanics that intertwine narrative depth with the act of walking, allowing gamers to relate more deeply to the environments they traverse. Expect titles similar to Death Stranding to dominate upcoming releases, drawing in fans of both story and exploration.
A Fresh Take on Past Events
Reflecting on the rise of exploration in games today, one might consider the growth of travel literature in the 19th century. Just like modern gamers seek solace and adventure in lengthy walks across virtual landscapes, travelers of that era used their narratives to connect deeper with unfamiliar worlds. Both movements highlight a deep-seated human desire for connection, whether through the pages of a book or the pathways of a game. The parallels are striking; just as those stories shaped perceptions of far-off lands, today’s walking games are reshaping the way people experience virtual worlds.