Wow, has it been 10 years already? I remember hearing tales of the beautiful (at the time), yet basic game Dear Esther. I have nothing but respect for the game but never wanted to play it. It did spawn an interesting discussion, and ultimately a new genre, or at least a new game description.

Game developer, The Chinese Room, is offering the game for free on Steam to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Dear Esther. This is the Landmark Edition, the 2017 Unity engine remake of the 2012 commercial remake of the 2008 Source engine mod. What a mouthful. The 2017 Unity Engine remake offers improved visuals, improved audio, and a Directors’ Commentary mode.

You have until February 16 at 7AM Pacific to claim the free game. Otherwise, you’ll have to pay $9.99 to add it to your Steam Library.

About Dear Esther

In 2012 Dear Esther launched. Its premise is simple, to explore the lonely island to find out what’s happening.

This game can be completed in an hour.

Final Thought

Dear Esther paved the way for the walking simulator genre. This is where you advance through a narrative-focused game without any combat or jumpscares. Other games followed in their footsteps, figuratively and literally, like Firwatch, Gone Home, and more.

If you are looking for a narratively driven experience with not much gameplay as a normal game, then this entry might be right up your alley. Add it to your Steam Library for free while you still can. Then, check out the other aforementioned titles within the genre.