Firewatch will leave Xbox Game Pass on 15 August, ending subscribers’ access to Campo Santo’s acclaimed 2016 narrative adventure through the service. The article argues that its short four-to-six-hour length makes it particularly worthwhile to play or revisit before departure, highlighting its enduring emotional impact and reputation as a modern indie classic.

Set in Wyoming’s Shoshone National Forest in 1989, the game follows fire lookout Henry as he copes with his wife’s serious illness and develops a radio-based friendship with supervisor Delilah. Firewatch was nominated for five Game Awards and was among Polygon’s favourite games of 2016; the article credits performances by Rich Sommer and Cissy Jones, alongside themes of isolation, grief and resilience, for its lasting appeal.