A Walk Through the Woods
Year Walk
Year Walk is a first person, point-and-click horror adventure game. It is based on Scandinavian folklore, and uncovers the vastly unknown tradition and practice of “year walking”. Year walking was a means of gaining a glimpse into the future, and was practiced up into as late as the 20th century. It was a very specific process that involved fasting, absence of fire, and no interaction with others (which was considered a great sacrifice, especially because it was done on holidays like Christmas/ Midsummers Eve when the food was most abundant).
Then after completing these things, they would leave their house at the stroke of midnight, in hopes of making it safely to the local church or graveyard. Venturing through dark woods alone, they would encounter supernatural creatures that posed physical, mental, and spiritual threats. If they withstood all of these, they would come to the final step in their journey. Facing the “Church Grim”. The Church Grim was created by burying a live animal under the altar (usually a black dog, or a lamb). Becoming the spiritual protector of the church, it would fend off robbers, witches, and even the devil himself.
While at times the visuals are unsettling, the game’s developer, Simogo, has done a beautiful job of marrying these folktales with the beautiful design this game showcases. The music definitely plays a big role in setting a very strange and uneasy feelwhile you tread through dark forests (you can download the soundtrack on iTunes). If you decide to get this game, do make sure to get the free Year Walk Companion App as well. It provides you with interesting history, and the eerie myths behind each character, creature, and setting.
I found it fascinating that this game was based on actual pagan practices. I always wonder about the crazy things that happened back in the day, and even today (?). Anyway, this game is sure to keep you on edge (not recommended at night, ha), and stun you with its haunting visuals.
(You can purchase this game for $3.99 on the App Store)
