A game developer from Canada named Adam Robinson-Yu, developed A Short Hike by himself. It is an adventure game that allows players to explore an open world with the main task of reaching the summit of a mountain to get cellphone reception. The game was released for Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Linux in July 2019, and later became available on Nintendo Switch in August 2020. It later released for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One in November 2021.

Gameplay

Controlling Claire, an anthropomorphic bird, the player can jog, climb, swim, and glide through an open-world park. In order to reach the peak, the player must acquire golden feathers that allow extra jumps and climbing abilities. A sign on Hawk Peak Trail states that the peak can be reached with as little as seven golden feathers. Upon reaching the peak, the player is granted freedom to explore the park and engage in side activities at their own discretion.

Apart from the primary objective, the island is inhabited by various animals that provide additional quests and pastimes such as fishing, recovering lost items, and participating in a beachstickball game resembling volleyball. The player can earn rewards for these activities in the form of items that augment their ability to navigate through the park, like running shoes or a compass. The player also has the opportunity to gather shells, sticks, coins, among other objects, that can aid in completing these side-quests.

Story

The game is set in a post-apocalyptic world after a disastrous event called the Claire is the main character and player in the game, who is portrayed as a young bird that spends her free time visiting Hawk Peak Provincial Park where her Aunt May is employed as a ranger.

At the beginning of the game, Claire’s mother drives her to a ferry that will take her to the park for the summer. Claire’s Aunt tells her that there is no cell phone reception in the park except for at Hawk Peak. Claire needs to receive an important call, so she decides to hike the Hawk Peak Trail, which she has never done before. The player can choose whether Claire helps the other animals on the island or goes straight to Hawk Peak. Characters in the game warn that the trail is difficult and strenuous.

How long is A Short Hike?

When you prioritize the primary goals, A Short Hike lasts for approximately 1½ hours. If you’re a dedicated gamer who aims to explore every aspect of the game, it may take you around 4½ hours to achieve 100% completion.

Reception

A Short Hike was well-received by critics who praised the game’s serene atmosphere and the ability to replay the game. The open-ended gameplay was also commended, with some reviewers drawing comparisons to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild due to the expansive open world.