A Winding Path
Review

A Winding Path (2021) is a hand-drawn adventure you play at a walking pace so you can take in the beauty of little things in the world. Your journey is to find the rainmaker to bring back the rain. You play by moving around and interacting with the people, buildings and items you find. It stands out not only for the pencil drawn art and simple puzzles, but for the esoteric pacing and calming play style.

In a whimsical fantasy world, the rain has ceased to fall. The rivers are running low and the crops have withered. Seeking to uncover the elemental mystery, you find an enchanted lyre and set out on a magical journey to restore balance to the world.

You explore the atmosphere of ancient caverns, enchanting forests and busy settlements. Along the way you meet various characters (and creatures) you can help on your path to find the rain and unveil its magic.

The result is a game as much about the journey as the destination. You mend a world stricken by distrust and restore unity among its inhabitants. You help people solve troubles big and small. But most of all you lose yourself and your own troubles for a little while in a meditative experience.

Our examiner, Andy Robertson, first checked A Winding Path 14 months ago. It was re-examined by Jo Robertson and updated 5 months ago.