I’ve heard and watched countless stories and films detailing loss, regret and pain - but The First Tree speaks with a soulful authenticity that clutches you and urges you to not only listen, but truly empathise with what you are experiencing.Described by creator David Wehle as a “beautiful journey that crescendos at the source of life, and perhaps results in the understanding of death,” The First Tree centers around two distinct stories: the story of a couple dealing with an unspecified tragedy, and the fox, who apparently discovers the titular “First Tree” during her search. That a game can elicit such a visceral emotional response speaks volumes to its content. I cannot stress enough that this game punched me right in the heart and the ending left me a mess of tears and remorse. I look forward to seeing it play out in the wider gaming community. I wish I could discuss a particular decision that is given to the player that will no doubt be subject of much discussion everywhere (I’ve already checked, and it is), but I honestly found it to be one of the most truly inspired heart-wrenching decisions to make in a game, especially given how open ended it is. But much like another favoured title of mine, Oxenfree, The First Tree challenges those preconceptions and is all the better for it. This game is out there, fully occupying the left-field in terms of what is expected of a playable experience. One person's trash is another person's treasure - and I fully appreciate that there are those that may read this, play it through and then scoff at this glowing review.

‍ The First Tree makes as much use of silence as it does anything else.Īrt is subjective.

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