Farewell North Review – A Journey Through Loss and Love in the Scottish Highlands
In Farewell North, you play as Ches, a spirited border collie, alongside her human, Cailey. After Cailey’s mother’s passing, they venture back to Cailey’s childhood home in the Scottish Highlands. This return explores themes of loss and reconnection, as Ches rediscovers the wild land she once called home and Cailey reflects on the life she left behind.
The Joy of Reunion and Rediscovery
Farewell North is more than a game about saying goodbye; it celebrates moments of reunion and rediscovery. Ches’s joy in returning to nature is clear as she runs through open fields, herds sheep, and reconnects with the landscape. This joy contrasts Cailey’s bittersweet reflections on her mother, her childhood, and the memories tied to the land and her loyal dog.
Gentle Puzzle-Solving Through a Beautiful Landscape
At its core, Farewell North is about exploration and puzzle-solving. The puzzles are as relaxed as the game’s atmosphere, rarely requiring intense focus. Players solve environmental puzzles, such as navigating fallen trees, that subtly shift the landscape and prompt further exploration. However, some puzzles can feel confusing if a key detail is missed, momentarily interrupting the game’s otherwise serene flow.
A Unique Use of Color to Express Emotion in Farewell North
The game’s muted color palette serves a symbolic purpose. The mostly gray world transforms into vibrant colors when Ches and Cailey share joyful moments, illustrating how Ches brings joy and color back into Cailey’s life. Yet, this gray backdrop can occasionally make navigation tricky, leaving players unsure of where to go next.
Seeing the World Through Ches’s Eyes
Farewell North skillfully brings Ches’s perspective to life in moments where the world shifts to reflect her perception. In some scenes, like racing through vibrant fields or viewing crowds as faceless obstacles, we see the world through Ches’s unique eyes. These moments are both visually and emotionally powerful, immersing the player in her experience and adding to the game’s charm.
The Bond Between Humans and Their Pets in Farewell North
As Farewell North progresses toward its climax, it reflects on the mutual support between humans and their pets. Ches comforts and aids Cailey through her journey of loss, while Cailey provides Ches with love and security. The game beautifully captures this relationship, creating a story that many pet owners will find deeply resonant.
A Lasting Experience in the Heart of Nature
Though Farewell North has occasional navigational challenges, it is an emotionally stirring journey worth taking. Its touching story, paired with the Scottish highlands’ beauty, makes it an unforgettable experience. This narrative is a reminder of the healing found in both nature and companionship—an experience that might just inspire you to give your own pets an extra hug.
Get the game here.
