What Remains of Edith Finch

What Remains of Edith Finch is widely praised as a deeply emotional and creatively told narrative experience that explores the tragic history of the Finch family through unique, short vignettes. Players step into the lives of various family members, each chapter offering a distinct gameplay mechanic that mirrors the individual's story, resulting in a varied and engaging experience. The game is noted for its beautifully crafted environments, especially the intricately designed Finch household that feels alive with memories and secrets. While it is primarily a walking simulator, the storytelling and atmosphere captivate players, often evoking strong emotional responses such as sadness and reflection on themes like life, death, and inherited trauma.

Though the game is relatively short—typically completed in about 2 to 4 hours—many find the experience impactful and memorable. Some criticisms focus on its linearity, brief duration, and occasional control frustrations, but overall, it is regarded as a masterpiece of narrative-driven gaming that leaves a lasting impression.

Highlights

Players highly praise the game's innovative storytelling mechanics, where each family member's story is presented with a unique interactive style. The stunning visuals and immersive sound design enhance the emotional weight of the narrative. The storyline is described as heartbreaking yet beautiful, tackling themes of grief, loss, and family legacy with sensitivity and depth. The Finch house itself is lauded as a fascinating, mysterious setting that adds layers to the exploration. Many reviewers highlight the game's ability to evoke strong emotions and thoughtful reflection, making it a standout in the walking simulator genre.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include the game's short length, which some feel does not justify the full price, recommending purchase mainly on sale. The gameplay is often described as too linear and restrictive, with minimal challenge or variety beyond storytelling. Some players report frustrations with controls and lack of tutorials, particularly on PC with keyboard and mouse. A few reviews mention loose narrative threads and unresolved plot points that can leave players wanting more clarity. Additionally, the emotional heaviness and sensitive topics such as suicide may not be suitable for all players, with calls for better content warnings.