UA-cam's been suggesting more small channels to me lately. This is the first time that the quality of sound, writing and editing did not give it away at all. I was surprised to see the subscriber count. Keep it up and I'm sure your audience will find you.
I think the ending served the game right. It was a game about grief and the ending leaves you how grief does. You’re waiting the whole game for it to have one redeeming quality and instead of meeting Delilah you get nothing. No satisfaction just a feeling of emptiness. That’s how grief feels.
Came here to say almost the same thing. You practically took the words out of my mouth. I think the game is designed perfectly and it’s one of my few 10/10 story games.
Grief is like a mental prison. You are stuck in a situation where the path(s) where you would normally move on have been blocked. You need to find a completely new path. But you won't even see the new path clearly until you complete the grieving process. At the end of this story, the protagonist is ready to move on.
Ugh. I think I was not alone with a feeling of slowly falling in love with Delilah, and that final reveal was quite a gut punch, even if I saw it coming. It's probably the best game I played in a decade. The writing was so good, the characters so believable, absolutely outstanding.
Delilah and Henry trauma bond over the course of the game. Their whole relationship is based on their shared isolation and the events that unfold in the game. In the end the reality is that if they met in person it doesn't fix anything they both still have to go and face their lives. To me Delilah not being there when he makes it to her tower is push he needs to go back and face his life and what hes been running from that led him to that job.
During the pandemic, I had my classes online. I met this girl, and we started to talk by messages. We began to talk about personal stuff, and, as you say, the fact of never being in person gave us a feeling of security, so we shared things that probably we wouldn't have done in perso. Eventually, I fell in love with her (I think she also, but I'm not sure), but the relationship reached its end. Once we talked daily, then we began to distance ourselves and one day we just never talked again. When I saw her in person some years later, it wasn't the same, we both had changed from those teenagers. When I se back now, I ask myself i it was really love or just an escape of my own problems. Sometimes I really miss our conversations, not in a romantic mood but as a friendship. Now she is only a good remember, one really good. PD: Sorry if my english isn't good
The lockdowns would have ruined my life if not for the fact that I met my dream girl because I spend so much time online now. I might have failed university cos I just cant work form home. I might have lost all my friends spare one. 2 of my 5 pets might have died and I got more comfort from random teammates in dota2 than my own family. My motoroller might have broken beyond repair. I might have needed a 1/3 of my teeth drilled and filled with metal and give up candy as to not get diabetes. But I found true love, a girl that would see comfort me throught all the hardships and chearfully tag along for all the happy things I expierience, naturally I return the favour in kind. It is for her that I push throught the burning, if she orders me to get a job so we could have a place to live I can NOT fail, where as if I was single I would just go back to living with my mom and avoid work for I hate any and all work with a passion. I love my girlfriend more than anything and picturing a world without her fills me with dread. With her even something as trivial as taking a 30 minute farry across a 6 km shallow sea streight becomes an absolute joy for shes ... awesome. Meanwhile if I was alone I would have just walked back and forth looking at the view and analizng the farries superstructure without feeling anything in particular. Once I and her started talking every day we just never stopped and when we met IRL after like 1,5 years we continued to be as close as humanly possible and have rarely spent a day apart since moving in together 2 years ago, even now shes adorably sleeping in our bed right behind me. Guess one of the benefits of being an adult is that you can end a long distance relationship by making it an IRL relationship cos your an adult and can go where you want including going to live together with whoever you want.
Somebody once told me that new people come to your life to fill some purpose and when it's done, they'll just leave... Like this... I know it may be cruel or harsh, but... For any reason you mabye needed her back then and now as you say... It's just a good memory. ;)
seems like Julia and Delilah are opposite relationships for him. With Julia, she's not as there mentally anymore as she used to be, but she's physically there. With Delilah, she's there exclusively mentally, as she can only express her thoughts to him, but he'll never see her physical self.
That is such a good comparison! I never thought of that. Maybe it explains a bit why Henry quickly grows attached to Delilah- she is what he has been missing for these years and what he appreciated most in Julia.
My wife died of early onset dementia. The guilt arises from being flawed in so many ways in how to deal with it, from feeling so selfish. I sought isolation as a refuge from the day to day humanity. Hiking in nature is not prospective nor retrospective… I went there for introspection and escape from culture. What I found was peace and clarity from within because in the end you are the one you have to answer to. I lost friends and left a career behind. It transformed my life into the most authentic state. Now, my sons are my engine and I get to live. I am not the same as I was once was. I am broken and scarred inside, the strongest I’ve ever been in many ways.
My wife is currently dying of cancer. We have a 2 year old daughter . Never has a YT comment touched me as yours did . I'm still figuring out want I want to be in my "next life" . I'm happy you're doing better
Considering my beloved is what gives my life any meaning and the reason I push through the burning of having to do things while being extrimely lazy, should she perish I would just go back to how I lived before I met her, doing nothing of note, just watching anime YT and playing videogames all day that I dont spend waling in the forrest thinking about all the things I wish I could do but the laws of physics stand in my way.
Idleness is no achievement, its lack of any. We must press on with zeal to achieve something in life ineast of just being content as we arophy peacefully doing nothing of value.
@ I see what you’re saying but it’s not about that as I’m reading it, more a way of dealing with traumatic events in the past and moving on instead of letting them hold you back the rest of your life.
I’ve come to realize the ending of this game is why it sticks with me. A clean “happily ever after” wouldn’t fit the tone at all-it’d almost feel out of place. The frustration you feel at the end actually pulls you deeper into the experience, making you feel like you’ve been through the same ups and downs as Henry. It’s like you’re left with the same weight he’s been carrying, and that unresolved feeling keeps the story alive in a way a perfect ending never could.
Totally agree. It finishes like a real world story where not everything gets explained or neatly tidied up. This seems to catch out people who expect a video game stories to follow the usual conventions, which by accident or design Firewatch does not.
I would say it ends quietly - like a slice of life story that will go on without us witnessing its continuation. But I don't understand why people feel unresolved by the ending. The final choice on whether Henry wears his wedding ring or not is *so* meaningful to me and provides quite a lot of redemption IMO.
Great video. You've got yourself another sub. I loved Firewatch. One of my all-time favourite indie games. In addition to your points, I also like how the game makes us reflect, as gamers, why we play games. I've often used games as a form of escapism, and playing Firewatch was no different. So at the end, when we find out that all the "conspiracies" have really rational and mundane explanations, we realise that we, as humans, crave to be at the centre of our own story, with stakes and meaning. And yet, in the cold light of day, most of the stories we tell ourselves are just that: stories. It's a sobering yet important ego check, and one that Campo Santo did masterfully.
When I tell you that the second I made it Delilah’s tower and when she wasn’t there. I sobbed when I played it the first time. I’m typically not a crier for videogames, with a couple notable exceptions. This one was the most emotional gut punch I ever felt in a game. At the time I had a few things in my life I was running from. Nothing as dramatic and crazy as Henry’s life but I had obligations, a recent death in the family I put down and tried to forget before confronting it emotionally, I had been neglecting school and telling my parents I was going to drop out. And when I played it the first time blind, I felt a lot like Henry, that feeling of always running away from something but never fully free. And the angelic voice of Delilah just seeming to play to my emotions perfectly, and it all seemed like it was going so well. And then I never met her. I was heart broken. I saw Henry as finally maybe getting something he wanted, maybe finally getting what he wanted without facing his own issues. It was like a sign that you could avoid your own problems if you just ran fast enough if you just went far enough. Maybe reading too much into that, but regardless, I had grown attached to Delilah. It was almost an emotional need and I desperately wanted to see her banter and chat and just be with Henry, especially after all the small flirts and comments made along the way. But then to just be left so high and dry, literally and emotionally. I was so angry at the time, I hated the game for doing that to me but honestly it’s incredible that it made me feel such a way.
What are the notable exceptions you speak of if you don't mind me asking? This game definitely did something for me emotionally back in the day and I have been looking for something as impactful ever since.
Outer Wilds is probably the game apart from Firewatch that gave me the most emotional experience. It's quite different and a lot less introspective, but gradually discovering the personal stories, grand ambitions and cruel tragedies of a long-lost alien race is deeply moving. Also, the mechanism where your progress in the game is as much your own increasing knowledge as the saved game itself is magical - but you can't experience it twice.
You are as if in a long distance relationship and her refusal to meet up is an effective breakup as long distance relationships only work when there are plans to make them IRL relationships.
I saw this on my FYP, and I really needed this reflection time. This has been an awesome break from doom scrolling. Absolutely love this type of content. You've earned yourself another sub.
Great audio quality and an immediate mythology and philosophy lesson? Phenomenal. I hope your content takes off and you continue to make bangers like this.
Honestly, this is one of the best videogame breakdowns I've ever watched. Your interpretation of henry´s story is absolutely beautiful, and as a guy who just broke up with his long distance girlfriend, i relate to this story a lot, the way a relationship through a screen is just... empty. Thank you, Lukka, well done.
Dude, you did this beautifully. Whenever I watch video essays about movies, series, or games, I always realise just how many things I missed, and it always makes me appreciate the art so much more. Thanks for putting in the effort:)
I'd never quite looked at it in this way. I love Firewatch. I watched a few people play it, fully, before I ever stepped in, and yet....when I finally did, even though I knew the story, I was hit with a completely different set of emotions. He did try and escape to the wilderness, and yes, by the time you are done, that route back up to the tower from the bottom of the canyon is so well known to you, and somehow still completely new. I remember filling up the camera, every single picture was considered, and had meaning, but ultimately said nothing at all about Henry, or about his life...they were just....pretty pictures. And that was what really hit me in the end I think, this entire game is 'pretty' but ultimately everything Henry takes away with him is not physical (poor Turt Reynolds) but spiritual, and emotional, and that is what the great outdoors can do for all of us I think. Awesome video dude, really did make me think, and the classicist in me loved the links between Tantalus and Henry.
Iv recently been going through a few things(who hasn't lol) and finding peace is something I've been struggling with. I kinda need this as a reminder to look inward for peace as opposed to saying "I need to get this done and then I'll have peace." Thank you, and great work.
As others have said, it's nice seeing smaller channels get recommended. These days I can't even get UA-cam to recommend channels I'm already subbed to if I just habnr watched them in a few months. It must be brutal for making content. I thank You, for Your time.
The fact that a review this good and deep came from a channel this small genuinely surprised me in the best ways possible. Well done man, I’m looking forward to seeing what you come up with next!
I know! I got a lot more out of replaying the game and choosing new answers. If you really liked it the first time it might be worth considering a replay
Just played and finished the game because of this video. I only watched 3 mins and then downloaded it, beat it, and came back to finish the video! The game was good. It's what I needed: to get back to story elements and not be distracted by shiny, flashy, instant gratification. Thank you
This essay is professional and personal at the same time. Firewatch is one of those games that you just have to experience to understand, and you explained it perfectly. Thank you for giving this game the love it deserves🙏
My who entire perspective on this game has been shifted after watching this video. This video took me to a place of peace and uncanny. It made me realise that this game has such a deeper meaning than what meets the eye. Your way of describing and narrating fitted perfectly to your script and the game. I hope to see one of your videos pop up on my recommended again.
Oh my gosh I have never seen such high quality content from an account with a following similar to yours. Keep producing content like this you’ll have millions in no time!
I won't even lie, I think this game has become in its own way, a paradox to escape for me while also having a paradox within in the game itself. This is one of my favorite video games of all time, but I only play it when I have my seasonal depression stages in the winter months or even when times are just tough... it's been like this for years now and this video has made me realized that this game has become (as it is put in the title) a "Freedom Illusion"... as sense of freedom from those seasional depression and tough patches in my life. This video covered it perfectly, thank you for making this video!
I loved this essay! Well done my friend, I am glad YT recommended it. I really enjoyed the story of Tantalus in the beginning. That parallel helped anchor your entire video and leaves me thinking afterward. Keep it up!
I love that people are still covering my favourite game I’ve ever played. I played it blind only off seeing the trailer on the PlayStation store and now have around 60 hours in the game 100% completed it and have done multiple playthroughs. 10/10 game and it’s people like you that are still keeping the game relevant today
This is one of the only video essays that made me lean back in my chair and think a little. Damn, so well thought out and so nicely put together. Bravo, this is definitely something you need to do more of, absolutely enjoyable.
More games should put such efforts in storytelling and more people like you should appreciate it, really enjoyed listening to your perspective and appreciated the effort you've put in making this♥️
This is an amazing video! I hate when videos talk about a specific games meaning for 3 hours straight and managing to do that in 15 minutes and amazingly made me subscribe!
bro this video is way too well made, the voice, editing, the analyses, everything is too good for such a small channel, you are surely gonna grow man love it, love the game and ur take on it too
Rarely comment on vids, but felt the need to on this one. Played this when if came out. Brilliantly thought out and executed philosophical analysis of this game. Gave me a new insight into the story and brought back some memories. Thank you.
This was on my recommended for a week. Looking at the thumbnail, interested but also didn’t care much. It’s 4:22am, I just got home from work, parked my car and watched the whole thing in here while I’m stuck in my own life feeling like I work so hard but never get anywhere. You have a wonderful and interesting way of breaking down the philosophy. Can’t wait for more.
I first played this game when I around 8, but never really understood it. I just thought it was fun. Now that I am 13 (still young I know), and especially after losing my father to cancer about a month ago, my view on this game really changed. It has so much symbolism in it like you mentioned and I just never noticed. great video by the way
I absolutely loved the "You can't run away from your problems" theme in this game which has driven me to play it multiple times over the last eight years.
You got my attention. It's been years since I've actively sought out a new analysis of Fire watch. I can remember playing it and feeling slighted....slightly, by the writing and the way the game ended. It stuck with me. The notion of a story, unresolved. I watched a video of the writers talking about how they wanted to the game to mimic real life. How not everything ends or wraps up with a neat little bow, and despite a beginning and midle and ending being the very nature of a good story, I appreciated the take. And it made me realize how I wasn't some victim of life, but of circumstance. People do things and unfortunately, those things can sometimes feel personal. In our head, it doesn't make a lot of sense. But the likelihood that we ourselves have done it someone else, and didn't think twice about it is so hard to swallow that I think we just, kinda, force that idea out of our heads to sort of, uh, keep us safe from our mistakes? I've wanted to for years but my thoughts into video form on this game. How its structure alone got me to question my own actions and how they effectively hurt or helped those around me, even if that wasn't the intention. How time is taken for granted, day after day. Even with the knowledge of regret. We are faluable creatures who often times don't learn from our past mistakes. I mean, think about all the people in your life who you thought at the time were gonna be there for a long time, yet you haven't seen or heard from in years. It's not anyones fault, and surely nothing to get flustered at. In fact, it's a beautiful thing really. Who we dash in and out of peoples life's. Teaching lessons and sharing memories. On face value, it's something that used to make me sad. But im thankful now. And it's weird to say. But this game has a lot to do with that. Can't wait to see more my guy. Thanks for the reminder.
I love the story of Tantalos, or well all greek myths and their philosophical implications for that matter. This was such a great video. I really enjoyed the structure and how calmly you spoke, very nice to listen to🫶🏻
This was a really good video, I always love essays and reviews about games like this and Firewatch I think is the most exquisite example of why these reviews are so entertaining. I hope your channel grows.
Your video randomly appeared on my feed this evening. I played the game back in 2017 I believe, I’d admit it pulled on my heart strings and I don’t think there’s been a game which the ending has affected me as much as it did. Listening to your interpretation, it makes a lot of sense. It frustrated me in a way I couldn’t put words too. I remember when I finished the game, I googled to see whether there was any alternative endings to the storyline, where the two characters actually meet. I was left, wanting more, feeling disappointed that I couldn’t get the ending I wanted, which I guess is the entire point. Nonetheless, it was a beautiful game, I loved everything about it. Great content fella.
Your video was randomly suggested to me this evening, I'm pleased it was. I played Firewatch back in 2016 when it was released, and it's stuck with me ever since. In the kind of way that very few games ever have. Since that first playthrough, the image of the tower has been the lockscreen on my phone and background on my computer. There's something about the story and feeling of calmness to the art style that worked so perfectly, and watching your video made me feel strangely nostalgic. Anyway, I'm not entirely sure where I'm going with this comment but felt compelled to leave it anyway. So thank you for making this video, loved your breakdown and agree with your analysis. In my opinion, the only other game that's come close for feels is Life is Strange 2. That story had me melted.
I really like the visuals of Firewatch and the relaxed pace as well. Was a really enjoyable first play through. I was disappointed on trying to play it a second time. I thought I’d try making different choices and would end up with a different experience. But, at best the changes the order of a few things but all the results seemed to be the same. I really think it would have been interesting if choices made really mattered.
What a delightful video and voice. Played the game some time ago. Thank you for offering this insight and you vision on the topic with help of this indeed wonderful game. Checking out your channel after this. To add, I think it helps change my mind a little, with my current dealing of long covid. Trying to get back to my old life, but the harder I try, it seems to slip away every day when it seems to get closer. Thank you for this.
Excellent video. Also set to Firewatch as a backdrop makes for a brilliant experience. Even after 8 years this game is beautiful. Your analogy is very similar to my view of the game however I adore how eloquent and poetic your presentation is. Your use of gameplay and the OST makes this video a real masterpiece. This video genuinely made my day mate. :D
I'll never forget the emotional roller coaster this game put me through. Top 5 games all time for me. Keep up the great content! I really enjoyed the video!
As everyone's said, it's great to see a small channel get recommended, and the video in itself is great and well-polished. Gained a subscriber for sure, keep up the great work! As a small one myself I know I'm nowhere near as polished as this, it's great to see, and pushes me to be better too.
Wow, great job, really. Firewatch is an amazing game and a great life lesson. To this day, Firewatch made me look at my own life and how I'm stuck in an endless loop of looking for something that isn't just going to happen. I truly love this game and I'm still searching for another one just like it, thing is, it's not out there. Again, amazing job, this video was AAA, thanks.
I found this channel totally by accident but I’m glad I did. I’ve never come across this game but I like the format, instead of mindless violence or just brain numbing addiction this instead is soul searching and meaningful. I like that. Great channel, keep it up. I’ll be back for more. 😉👍🏻
This really is an amazing video, hats off to you sir. I really loved the game, and already felt a lot of the emotions you are putting into words, but I had never looked at the entire picture like this.
When I saw this video’s thumbnail, I knew that I was interested in these kind of contents because rn in my life im at a stage that many things are mysteries and I still don’t know what my purpose is. I started watching it and really enjoyed the storytelling and the way that you look at things. UA-cam usually suggests me videos from big content creators and when I finished the video and saw the number of this chanel’s subscribers I immediately found out that I had found a super underrated channel. Keep it up man🔥
Thx for the spoiler alert, I haven't played Firewatch, and I'm not even really a big gamer, but you set the intro up so well that I think I'll give this one a go! Cheers!
This video felt premium to watch man,as someone who played the game i see how your analysis ties in with the themes of "freedom" when it's just escapism,you earned a sub.
Your video is awesome! I love the thought you put on this amazing game. I wish you much success to your channel and I'll keep following you for the next video!!
YOUR Henry's story ended that way. Mine waved off the chopper and marched back to Delilah's tower to sit and wait for the fire to come. Don't forget that everybody's experience will be unique.
I can honestly say iv never been this quick to sub to someone and then also been like holy shit how is this guy only have 5k you will be huge in the next year
Firewatch is one my favorite video games of all time. I remember looking through the Game Pass games and seeing it, not thinking much of it. A few hours later, I left a review that probably made the creator's spouses jelaous 😂. I couldn't agree more with this take. There has never been a game that has left me so torn emotionally and it got me thinking about that same paradox - of wanting something so much but the more you seek it, the less it seems you'll succeed. But this video also got me thinking of how getting caught up in this paradox will certainly stop one from achieving what they want in life. Thank you for this reminder, amazing commentary and video 🙌🏼🔥
Great vid! It was summed up perfectly above so I hate to rehash, but this quality definitely deserves more subs! Keep it up! I'm simply commenting to hopefully drive engagement
I remember playing Fire Watch in high school, a truly captivating story. Your interpretation is truly beautiful, and I am glad to have stumbled across this video. I think I might reply fire watch now.
I played it for the first time maybe 6 years ago now. When I played it again I was surprised how much I got out of it the second time. Try playing it again but choosing different responses than previously-you’ll get more out of it
I hadn’t fully grokked the full irony of Henry taking the job to avoid watching the tragedy of his wife’s mind being consumed by dementia, when the job is literally to watch for the tragedy of a forest being consumed by fire. It’s even right there in the title. 🤦🏼♂️ Great video.
Firewatch is an incredible game and I love your take. The depth and incredible thought behind this amazed me and I so look forward to seeing more of your content . Thanks ❤
I played this last year for some quick and easy achievements for my gamerscore on Xbox. I did not expect to actually love this game. And I agree with your take of this game. Love this video, and I love the quality of it. I will watch your other videos and looking forward to your next one. New Subscriber BTW
never played the game, but talking about it like that in the intro finally convinced me, i dont want spoilers so uh sorry for not counting as a view, ill give you a thumbs up tho
40 yo, on the crossroads of life after surviving a severe accident. This short analysis was unbelievably profound. I have a philosophical background, few things come close to such elegance and penetration depth.
I've watched the video fully, knowing that I spoiled the game for myself, but I know for a fact I will be fully immersed regardless. This is such a wonderfully put together video, I look forward to seeing more!
Great analysis! I feel like this game went over the heads of many who played it. When I walked away from it I was haunted by it for years and kept thinking about the characters and their motivations. It's always fun to watch an insightful look at Firewatch.
I played this game for the first time this summer of 2024. I had just left work and planned on finally sitting down with myself to figure out what I want. And I actually went at it with excitement, at first. But really looking at myself and my future proved more heavy than I thought. I had quit smoking, but during the summer, I got back into it, and I don't mean cigarettes. I was clean for some 5 years. I was running away from my problems again. I found this game and for a couple of days I played through it. The story hit me. Now, I realized my mistake before the game, but it's message resonated with me. The fact that you don't get to meet Delilah at the end echoes with what some of us are trying to find through addiction. You won't get what you want at that end. But facing your responsibilities will give you more satisfaction. I haven't picked up the pipe since. I got really scared of that side of me, and who I might become. We fall so we can learn to pick ourselves back up. I wish you courage and all the best, because you deserve it!
I’m glad I found this video! From what I understand about dementia, the more one tries to grasp at a memory or thought the more out of reach it becomes. Another similarity to Tantalus.
UA-cam's been suggesting more small channels to me lately. This is the first time that the quality of sound, writing and editing did not give it away at all. I was surprised to see the subscriber count. Keep it up and I'm sure your audience will find you.
Thanks! I miiight have re-recorded the video a few times and replayed the whole game because the footage quality wasn’t worth posting at first :P
I didn't even realise how small this channel was until I read this comment!
What do you mean 600 subs??? 😭
@@HeyItsLukkait’s a perfect excuse to replay the game
Dido, just here to comment to bless the algorithm
I think the ending served the game right. It was a game about grief and the ending leaves you how grief does. You’re waiting the whole game for it to have one redeeming quality and instead of meeting Delilah you get nothing. No satisfaction just a feeling of emptiness. That’s how grief feels.
Couldnt agree more!!
Came here to say almost the same thing. You practically took the words out of my mouth. I think the game is designed perfectly and it’s one of my few 10/10 story games.
Grief is like a mental prison. You are stuck in a situation where the path(s) where you would normally move on have been blocked. You need to find a completely new path. But you won't even see the new path clearly until you complete the grieving process. At the end of this story, the protagonist is ready to move on.
Ugh. I think I was not alone with a feeling of slowly falling in love with Delilah, and that final reveal was quite a gut punch, even if I saw it coming. It's probably the best game I played in a decade. The writing was so good, the characters so believable, absolutely outstanding.
Delilah and Henry trauma bond over the course of the game. Their whole relationship is based on their shared isolation and the events that unfold in the game. In the end the reality is that if they met in person it doesn't fix anything they both still have to go and face their lives. To me Delilah not being there when he makes it to her tower is push he needs to go back and face his life and what hes been running from that led him to that job.
During the pandemic, I had my classes online. I met this girl, and we started to talk by messages. We began to talk about personal stuff, and, as you say, the fact of never being in person gave us a feeling of security, so we shared things that probably we wouldn't have done in perso. Eventually, I fell in love with her (I think she also, but I'm not sure), but the relationship reached its end. Once we talked daily, then we began to distance ourselves and one day we just never talked again.
When I saw her in person some years later, it wasn't the same, we both had changed from those teenagers.
When I se back now, I ask myself i it was really love or just an escape of my own problems. Sometimes I really miss our conversations, not in a romantic mood but as a friendship. Now she is only a good remember, one really good.
PD: Sorry if my english isn't good
Relatable brother
The lockdowns would have ruined my life if not for the fact that I met my dream girl because I spend so much time online now.
I might have failed university cos I just cant work form home. I might have lost all my friends spare one. 2 of my 5 pets might have died and I got more comfort from random teammates in dota2 than my own family. My motoroller might have broken beyond repair. I might have needed a 1/3 of my teeth drilled and filled with metal and give up candy as to not get diabetes.
But I found true love, a girl that would see comfort me throught all the hardships and chearfully tag along for all the happy things I expierience, naturally I return the favour in kind.
It is for her that I push throught the burning, if she orders me to get a job so we could have a place to live I can NOT fail, where as if I was single I would just go back to living with my mom and avoid work for I hate any and all work with a passion. I love my girlfriend more than anything and picturing a world without her fills me with dread. With her even something as trivial as taking a 30 minute farry across a 6 km shallow sea streight becomes an absolute joy for shes ... awesome. Meanwhile if I was alone I would have just walked back and forth looking at the view and analizng the farries superstructure without feeling anything in particular.
Once I and her started talking every day we just never stopped and when we met IRL after like 1,5 years we continued to be as close as humanly possible and have rarely spent a day apart since moving in together 2 years ago, even now shes adorably sleeping in our bed right behind me.
Guess one of the benefits of being an adult is that you can end a long distance relationship by making it an IRL relationship cos your an adult and can go where you want including going to live together with whoever you want.
It was a friendship, it was love. A relationship is valuable even if it ends, that’s okay, and the end doesn’t take anything away from what you had.
Somebody once told me that new people come to your life to fill some purpose and when it's done, they'll just leave... Like this... I know it may be cruel or harsh, but... For any reason you mabye needed her back then and now as you say... It's just a good memory. ;)
seems like Julia and Delilah are opposite relationships for him. With Julia, she's not as there mentally anymore as she used to be, but she's physically there. With Delilah, she's there exclusively mentally, as she can only express her thoughts to him, but he'll never see her physical self.
That is such a good comparison! I never thought of that. Maybe it explains a bit why Henry quickly grows attached to Delilah- she is what he has been missing for these years and what he appreciated most in Julia.
I figured they would have met after the game ended
My wife died of early onset dementia. The guilt arises from being flawed in so many ways in how to deal with it, from feeling so selfish. I sought isolation as a refuge from the day to day humanity. Hiking in nature is not prospective nor retrospective… I went there for introspection and escape from culture. What I found was peace and clarity from within because in the end you are the one you have to answer to. I lost friends and left a career behind. It transformed my life into the most authentic state. Now, my sons are my engine and I get to live. I am not the same as I was once was. I am broken and scarred inside, the strongest I’ve ever been in many ways.
Damn, that was poetic. Glad you’re doing better
Om Shanti to her! 🙏 🙏
I hope you're doing well!
My wife is currently dying of cancer. We have a 2 year old daughter . Never has a YT comment touched me as yours did . I'm still figuring out want I want to be in my "next life" . I'm happy you're doing better
@@LouiLocke Wish her a speedy and full recovery 🙏 🙏
Considering my beloved is what gives my life any meaning and the reason I push through the burning of having to do things while being extrimely lazy, should she perish I would just go back to how I lived before I met her, doing nothing of note, just watching anime YT and playing videogames all day that I dont spend waling in the forrest thinking about all the things I wish I could do but the laws of physics stand in my way.
‘Peace is not in reaching for the unreachable but embracing the present and our place within it’
Perfectly said.
Idleness is no achievement, its lack of any. We must press on with zeal to achieve something in life ineast of just being content as we arophy peacefully doing nothing of value.
@ I see what you’re saying but it’s not about that as I’m reading it, more a way of dealing with traumatic events in the past and moving on instead of letting them hold you back the rest of your life.
I’ve come to realize the ending of this game is why it sticks with me. A clean “happily ever after” wouldn’t fit the tone at all-it’d almost feel out of place. The frustration you feel at the end actually pulls you deeper into the experience, making you feel like you’ve been through the same ups and downs as Henry. It’s like you’re left with the same weight he’s been carrying, and that unresolved feeling keeps the story alive in a way a perfect ending never could.
100%
Totally agree. It finishes like a real world story where not everything gets explained or neatly tidied up. This seems to catch out people who expect a video game stories to follow the usual conventions, which by accident or design Firewatch does not.
I would say it ends quietly - like a slice of life story that will go on without us witnessing its continuation.
But I don't understand why people feel unresolved by the ending. The final choice on whether Henry wears his wedding ring or not is *so* meaningful to me and provides quite a lot of redemption IMO.
Great video. You've got yourself another sub. I loved Firewatch. One of my all-time favourite indie games. In addition to your points, I also like how the game makes us reflect, as gamers, why we play games. I've often used games as a form of escapism, and playing Firewatch was no different. So at the end, when we find out that all the "conspiracies" have really rational and mundane explanations, we realise that we, as humans, crave to be at the centre of our own story, with stakes and meaning. And yet, in the cold light of day, most of the stories we tell ourselves are just that: stories. It's a sobering yet important ego check, and one that Campo Santo did masterfully.
So true-really nice perspective and well said :)
When I tell you that the second I made it Delilah’s tower and when she wasn’t there. I sobbed when I played it the first time. I’m typically not a crier for videogames, with a couple notable exceptions. This one was the most emotional gut punch I ever felt in a game. At the time I had a few things in my life I was running from. Nothing as dramatic and crazy as Henry’s life but I had obligations, a recent death in the family I put down and tried to forget before confronting it emotionally, I had been neglecting school and telling my parents I was going to drop out. And when I played it the first time blind, I felt a lot like Henry, that feeling of always running away from something but never fully free. And the angelic voice of Delilah just seeming to play to my emotions perfectly, and it all seemed like it was going so well. And then I never met her. I was heart broken. I saw Henry as finally maybe getting something he wanted, maybe finally getting what he wanted without facing his own issues. It was like a sign that you could avoid your own problems if you just ran fast enough if you just went far enough. Maybe reading too much into that, but regardless, I had grown attached to Delilah. It was almost an emotional need and I desperately wanted to see her banter and chat and just be with Henry, especially after all the small flirts and comments made along the way. But then to just be left so high and dry, literally and emotionally. I was so angry at the time, I hated the game for doing that to me but honestly it’s incredible that it made me feel such a way.
What are the notable exceptions you speak of if you don't mind me asking? This game definitely did something for me emotionally back in the day and I have been looking for something as impactful ever since.
Outer Wilds is probably the game apart from Firewatch that gave me the most emotional experience. It's quite different and a lot less introspective, but gradually discovering the personal stories, grand ambitions and cruel tragedies of a long-lost alien race is deeply moving. Also, the mechanism where your progress in the game is as much your own increasing knowledge as the saved game itself is magical - but you can't experience it twice.
Thank you, I'll give it a go :)@@galfisk
You are as if in a long distance relationship and her refusal to meet up is an effective breakup as long distance relationships only work when there are plans to make them IRL relationships.
I saw this on my FYP, and I really needed this reflection time. This has been an awesome break from doom scrolling. Absolutely love this type of content. You've earned yourself another sub.
Great audio quality and an immediate mythology and philosophy lesson? Phenomenal. I hope your content takes off and you continue to make bangers like this.
Thanks for the kind words!
Dont know this ended up on my reccomended, but i enjoyed it
Same
Honestly, this is one of the best videogame breakdowns I've ever watched. Your interpretation of henry´s story is absolutely beautiful, and as a guy who just broke up with his long distance girlfriend, i relate to this story a lot, the way a relationship through a screen is just... empty. Thank you, Lukka, well done.
Glad you found the some personal take away from it-that’s the goal
Firewatch is a Masterpiece, thanks for making that clear once again. I really enjoyed your analysis, this deserves more recognition!
Dude, you did this beautifully. Whenever I watch video essays about movies, series, or games, I always realise just how many things I missed, and it always makes me appreciate the art so much more. Thanks for putting in the effort:)
I'd never quite looked at it in this way. I love Firewatch. I watched a few people play it, fully, before I ever stepped in, and yet....when I finally did, even though I knew the story, I was hit with a completely different set of emotions. He did try and escape to the wilderness, and yes, by the time you are done, that route back up to the tower from the bottom of the canyon is so well known to you, and somehow still completely new. I remember filling up the camera, every single picture was considered, and had meaning, but ultimately said nothing at all about Henry, or about his life...they were just....pretty pictures. And that was what really hit me in the end I think, this entire game is 'pretty' but ultimately everything Henry takes away with him is not physical (poor Turt Reynolds) but spiritual, and emotional, and that is what the great outdoors can do for all of us I think.
Awesome video dude, really did make me think, and the classicist in me loved the links between Tantalus and Henry.
Iv recently been going through a few things(who hasn't lol) and finding peace is something I've been struggling with. I kinda need this as a reminder to look inward for peace as opposed to saying "I need to get this done and then I'll have peace."
Thank you, and great work.
Right there with you my friend. Take care
I loved Firewatch, it touched my heart in the opening few moments of text dialogue and was a great emotional experience, thanks for the great video
As others have said, it's nice seeing smaller channels get recommended. These days I can't even get UA-cam to recommend channels I'm already subbed to if I just habnr watched them in a few months. It must be brutal for making content. I thank You, for Your time.
Commenting so that the algorithm will find you, keep up the good work
The fact that a review this good and deep came from a channel this small genuinely surprised me in the best ways possible. Well done man, I’m looking forward to seeing what you come up with next!
One of the best essays I’ve watched … this brought back so many of my own memories. Thanks for making this man. Thanks you.
I’ve never heard the dialogue where Henry doesn’t know Delilah isn’t waiting for him at the tower, really adds another layer to hear that
I know! I got a lot more out of replaying the game and choosing new answers. If you really liked it the first time it might be worth considering a replay
Just played and finished the game because of this video. I only watched 3 mins and then downloaded it, beat it, and came back to finish the video! The game was good. It's what I needed: to get back to story elements and not be distracted by shiny, flashy, instant gratification. Thank you
Same here, got to 1:30 and stopped. The intro of this made me have to go play it.
Firewatch and Journey saved me from giving up gaming after 35 years.
Amazing experiences.
This essay is professional and personal at the same time. Firewatch is one of those games that you just have to experience to understand, and you explained it perfectly. Thank you for giving this game the love it deserves🙏
My who entire perspective on this game has been shifted after watching this video. This video took me to a place of peace and uncanny. It made me realise that this game has such a deeper meaning than what meets the eye. Your way of describing and narrating fitted perfectly to your script and the game. I hope to see one of your videos pop up on my recommended again.
Oh my gosh I have never seen such high quality content from an account with a following similar to yours. Keep producing content like this you’ll have millions in no time!
I won't even lie, I think this game has become in its own way, a paradox to escape for me while also having a paradox within in the game itself. This is one of my favorite video games of all time, but I only play it when I have my seasonal depression stages in the winter months or even when times are just tough... it's been like this for years now and this video has made me realized that this game has become (as it is put in the title) a "Freedom Illusion"... as sense of freedom from those seasional depression and tough patches in my life. This video covered it perfectly, thank you for making this video!
I loved this essay! Well done my friend, I am glad YT recommended it. I really enjoyed the story of Tantalus in the beginning. That parallel helped anchor your entire video and leaves me thinking afterward. Keep it up!
I love that people are still covering my favourite game I’ve ever played. I played it blind only off seeing the trailer on the PlayStation store and now have around 60 hours in the game 100% completed it and have done multiple playthroughs. 10/10 game and it’s people like you that are still keeping the game relevant today
This is a really well polished video essay that I really enjoyed. Thank you for creating this
This is one of the only video essays that made me lean back in my chair and think a little. Damn, so well thought out and so nicely put together. Bravo, this is definitely something you need to do more of, absolutely enjoyable.
Thank you so much :)
More games should put such efforts in storytelling and more people like you should appreciate it, really enjoyed listening to your perspective and appreciated the effort you've put in making this♥️
This is an amazing video! I hate when videos talk about a specific games meaning for 3 hours straight and managing to do that in 15 minutes and amazingly made me subscribe!
What a voice!
The emotions in this voice and the hole voice … it was just perfect!!! Keep going, i‘m already excited to watch more of your contend
bro this video is way too well made, the voice, editing, the analyses, everything is too good for such a small channel, you are surely gonna grow man love it, love the game and ur take on it too
Thanks a lot for saying that!
Rarely comment on vids, but felt the need to on this one. Played this when if came out. Brilliantly thought out and executed philosophical analysis of this game. Gave me a new insight into the story and brought back some memories. Thank you.
This was on my recommended for a week. Looking at the thumbnail, interested but also didn’t care much.
It’s 4:22am, I just got home from work, parked my car and watched the whole thing in here while I’m stuck in my own life feeling like I work so hard but never get anywhere.
You have a wonderful and interesting way of breaking down the philosophy. Can’t wait for more.
I first played this game when I around 8, but never really understood it. I just thought it was fun. Now that I am 13 (still young I know), and especially after losing my father to cancer about a month ago, my view on this game really changed. It has so much symbolism in it like you mentioned and I just never noticed. great video by the way
Im sorry for your lost, you are still young. I hope you still have the drive and direction. I know nothing much but hoping for you to get it through.
I absolutely loved the "You can't run away from your problems" theme in this game which has driven me to play it multiple times over the last eight years.
You got my attention.
It's been years since I've actively sought out a new analysis of Fire watch. I can remember playing it and feeling slighted....slightly, by the writing and the way the game ended. It stuck with me. The notion of a story, unresolved. I watched a video of the writers talking about how they wanted to the game to mimic real life. How not everything ends or wraps up with a neat little bow, and despite a beginning and midle and ending being the very nature of a good story, I appreciated the take. And it made me realize how I wasn't some victim of life, but of circumstance. People do things and unfortunately, those things can sometimes feel personal. In our head, it doesn't make a lot of sense. But the likelihood that we ourselves have done it someone else, and didn't think twice about it is so hard to swallow that I think we just, kinda, force that idea out of our heads to sort of, uh, keep us safe from our mistakes?
I've wanted to for years but my thoughts into video form on this game. How its structure alone got me to question my own actions and how they effectively hurt or helped those around me, even if that wasn't the intention. How time is taken for granted, day after day. Even with the knowledge of regret. We are faluable creatures who often times don't learn from our past mistakes. I mean, think about all the people in your life who you thought at the time were gonna be there for a long time, yet you haven't seen or heard from in years. It's not anyones fault, and surely nothing to get flustered at.
In fact, it's a beautiful thing really. Who we dash in and out of peoples life's. Teaching lessons and sharing memories. On face value, it's something that used to make me sad. But im thankful now. And it's weird to say. But this game has a lot to do with that.
Can't wait to see more my guy. Thanks for the reminder.
Really great perspective-hope to see your video on it when you make it
I loved this game so much when I first played it. I was 15-16 when I played it, it was so well done. I need to play it again. Thank you for this
Looking forward to seeing more analysis videos like this, your growth will only be exponential on this page with the quality you're showing
This one of the most refined video essays I’ve listened too, keep up the work man
@@biblit5590 thank you, I appreciate that!
@ man I really hope you keep this up. You got genuine talent and it seems like a good passion for whatever you’re talking about.
Video essays is like a secret gold mine on YT, and this channel right here, is top tier gold
I love the story of Tantalos, or well all greek myths and their philosophical implications for that matter.
This was such a great video. I really enjoyed the structure and how calmly you spoke, very nice to listen to🫶🏻
Thank you :) that’s really nice to read
This was a really good video, I always love essays and reviews about games like this and Firewatch I think is the most exquisite example of why these reviews are so entertaining. I hope your channel grows.
Your video randomly appeared on my feed this evening. I played the game back in 2017 I believe, I’d admit it pulled on my heart strings and I don’t think there’s been a game which the ending has affected me as much as it did.
Listening to your interpretation, it makes a lot of sense. It frustrated me in a way I couldn’t put words too. I remember when I finished the game, I googled to see whether there was any alternative endings to the storyline, where the two characters actually meet.
I was left, wanting more, feeling disappointed that I couldn’t get the ending I wanted, which I guess is the entire point.
Nonetheless, it was a beautiful game, I loved everything about it.
Great content fella.
I was drawn to this game by its premise and promise. Your comments do its depth of discovery justice it deserves. Well done
I love this game even more now. Great video and analysis.
You earned my Sub
Your video was randomly suggested to me this evening, I'm pleased it was. I played Firewatch back in 2016 when it was released, and it's stuck with me ever since. In the kind of way that very few games ever have. Since that first playthrough, the image of the tower has been the lockscreen on my phone and background on my computer. There's something about the story and feeling of calmness to the art style that worked so perfectly, and watching your video made me feel strangely nostalgic. Anyway, I'm not entirely sure where I'm going with this comment but felt compelled to leave it anyway. So thank you for making this video, loved your breakdown and agree with your analysis. In my opinion, the only other game that's come close for feels is Life is Strange 2. That story had me melted.
I really like the visuals of Firewatch and the relaxed pace as well. Was a really enjoyable first play through.
I was disappointed on trying to play it a second time. I thought I’d try making different choices and would end up with a different experience. But, at best the changes the order of a few things but all the results seemed to be the same. I really think it would have been interesting if choices made really mattered.
What a delightful video and voice. Played the game some time ago. Thank you for offering this insight and you vision on the topic with help of this indeed wonderful game. Checking out your channel after this.
To add, I think it helps change my mind a little, with my current dealing of long covid. Trying to get back to my old life, but the harder I try, it seems to slip away every day when it seems to get closer. Thank you for this.
Amazing work! I can't wait to see where your channel goes!
Thank you so much!
The quality of production here from such a small channel is phenomenal. Instant sub. I look forward to seeing this channel grow.
Thank you!
You just made me love my favourite game of all time even more. I'm going to need a replay soon!
Excellent video. Also set to Firewatch as a backdrop makes for a brilliant experience. Even after 8 years this game is beautiful. Your analogy is very similar to my view of the game however I adore how eloquent and poetic your presentation is. Your use of gameplay and the OST makes this video a real masterpiece. This video genuinely made my day mate. :D
I'll never forget the emotional roller coaster this game put me through. Top 5 games all time for me. Keep up the great content! I really enjoyed the video!
As everyone's said, it's great to see a small channel get recommended, and the video in itself is great and well-polished. Gained a subscriber for sure, keep up the great work! As a small one myself I know I'm nowhere near as polished as this, it's great to see, and pushes me to be better too.
Wow, great job, really. Firewatch is an amazing game and a great life lesson. To this day, Firewatch made me look at my own life and how I'm stuck in an endless loop of looking for something that isn't just going to happen. I truly love this game and I'm still searching for another one just like it, thing is, it's not out there.
Again, amazing job, this video was AAA, thanks.
I found this channel totally by accident but I’m glad I did. I’ve never come across this game but I like the format, instead of mindless violence or just brain numbing addiction this instead is soul searching and meaningful. I like that. Great channel, keep it up. I’ll be back for more. 😉👍🏻
This really is an amazing video, hats off to you sir.
I really loved the game, and already felt a lot of the emotions you are putting into words, but I had never looked at the entire picture like this.
When I saw this video’s thumbnail, I knew that I was interested in these kind of contents because rn in my life im at a stage that many things are mysteries and I still don’t know what my purpose is. I started watching it and really enjoyed the storytelling and the way that you look at things.
UA-cam usually suggests me videos from big content creators and when I finished the video and saw the number of this chanel’s subscribers I immediately found out that I had found a super underrated channel.
Keep it up man🔥
This was right up my alley. Keep making videos. You have a good voice and you kick ass at writing.
I’ve watched your vid before going to bed which is a huge compliment. Also I’m from Panama 🇵🇦 and I’ve subscribed. Well done sir
great video, happy this whowed up on my feed.
Thank You UA-cam for this recommendation. Quality video.
Thx for the spoiler alert, I haven't played Firewatch, and I'm not even really a big gamer, but you set the intro up so well that I think I'll give this one a go! Cheers!
This video felt premium to watch man,as someone who played the game i see how your analysis ties in with the themes of "freedom" when it's just escapism,you earned a sub.
Video just popped up out of nowhere, but I'm glad it did. Great work merging philosophy principals with modern gaming. You should do more like this.
Your video is awesome! I love the thought you put on this amazing game. I wish you much success to your channel and I'll keep following you for the next video!!
YOUR Henry's story ended that way. Mine waved off the chopper and marched back to Delilah's tower to sit and wait for the fire to come. Don't forget that everybody's experience will be unique.
True!
I can honestly say iv never been this quick to sub to someone and then also been like holy shit how is this guy only have 5k you will be huge in the next year
Great video man, really good production values and loved the script. Look forward to you developing the channel
Firewatch is one my favorite video games of all time. I remember looking through the Game Pass games and seeing it, not thinking much of it. A few hours later, I left a review that probably made the creator's spouses jelaous 😂. I couldn't agree more with this take. There has never been a game that has left me so torn emotionally and it got me thinking about that same paradox - of wanting something so much but the more you seek it, the less it seems you'll succeed. But this video also got me thinking of how getting caught up in this paradox will certainly stop one from achieving what they want in life. Thank you for this reminder, amazing commentary and video 🙌🏼🔥
Great vid! It was summed up perfectly above so I hate to rehash, but this quality definitely deserves more subs! Keep it up! I'm simply commenting to hopefully drive engagement
I remember playing Fire Watch in high school, a truly captivating story. Your interpretation is truly beautiful, and I am glad to have stumbled across this video. I think I might reply fire watch now.
I played it for the first time maybe 6 years ago now. When I played it again I was surprised how much I got out of it the second time. Try playing it again but choosing different responses than previously-you’ll get more out of it
This game is the definition of melancholy, but in a good way. Thank you for this video.
video, audio and storytelling was 10/10 bro. Keep this up and no doubt you’ll get big soon
I hadn’t fully grokked the full irony of Henry taking the job to avoid watching the tragedy of his wife’s mind being consumed by dementia, when the job is literally to watch for the tragedy of a forest being consumed by fire.
It’s even right there in the title. 🤦🏼♂️ Great video.
Firewatch is an incredible game and I love your take. The depth and incredible thought behind this amazed me and I so look forward to seeing more of your content . Thanks ❤
I played this last year for some quick and easy achievements for my gamerscore on Xbox.
I did not expect to actually love this game. And I agree with your take of this game. Love this video, and I love the quality of it. I will watch your other videos and looking forward to your next one.
New Subscriber BTW
never played the game, but talking about it like that in the intro finally convinced me, i dont want spoilers so uh sorry for not counting as a view, ill give you a thumbs up tho
Thanks for stopping me @ 3:35. I’ll play the game and come back
Same! Just downloaded it after years of saying I should.
Do it!!!
Have you been able to play it?
I put it off for years, it was absolutely worth the time.
Listening to you explaining about the video game was absolutely incredible. You have a new follower now thank you. 🙏
Earned yourself a new subscriber!! Immaculate production quality
10/10 video! I can't believe this channel doesn't have more subs!
40 yo, on the crossroads of life after surviving a severe accident. This short analysis was unbelievably profound. I have a philosophical background, few things come close to such elegance and penetration depth.
I’m sorry to hear that friend-I wish you fast and full recovery. Thank you for the positivity
I honestly never really tried to analyze Firewatch like this. But i´m glad I found your Video. Keep up the good Work👍
Gotta thank the algorithm for suggesting me this video of yours . God bless you lukka .
I've watched the video fully, knowing that I spoiled the game for myself, but I know for a fact I will be fully immersed regardless.
This is such a wonderfully put together video, I look forward to seeing more!
Glad to see someone appreciates the ending as much as i did!
I really enjoyed this deep dive into the themes. I can tell you put a lot of work into this.
Please keep doing these videos. Your voice is so soothing and the essays are excellent.
I dont even play games but I enjoyed watching every minute of this... Probably because I *feel* henry on a personal level.
Thank you for this Video! It was an amazing 15 Minute Journey i will never forget
Great analysis! I feel like this game went over the heads of many who played it. When I walked away from it I was haunted by it for years and kept thinking about the characters and their motivations. It's always fun to watch an insightful look at Firewatch.
Thank you!
the feeling you get playing firewatch for the first time is truly a unique feeling, good to finally know why. thank you
I played this game for the first time this summer of 2024. I had just left work and planned on finally sitting down with myself to figure out what I want. And I actually went at it with excitement, at first. But really looking at myself and my future proved more heavy than I thought. I had quit smoking, but during the summer, I got back into it, and I don't mean cigarettes. I was clean for some 5 years. I was running away from my problems again. I found this game and for a couple of days I played through it. The story hit me. Now, I realized my mistake before the game, but it's message resonated with me. The fact that you don't get to meet Delilah at the end echoes with what some of us are trying to find through addiction. You won't get what you want at that end. But facing your responsibilities will give you more satisfaction. I haven't picked up the pipe since. I got really scared of that side of me, and who I might become. We fall so we can learn to pick ourselves back up. I wish you courage and all the best, because you deserve it!
I’m glad I found this video! From what I understand about dementia, the more one tries to grasp at a memory or thought the more out of reach it becomes. Another similarity to Tantalus.