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Firewatch is set in the wilderness of Wyoming, and your character is given a map of your surroundings as well as a compass to help you find your way around. The map also helpfully shows your location, so you always know where you are. You need to turn that off just as soon as possible.
I'm not the first person to think this is the best way to play the game.
Firewatch recommendation: turn off "Show Location On Map" in the settings. Much more immersive. pic.twitter.com/OgrdDrKW9s
— Mark Brown (@britishgaming) February 10, 2016
The fact the map can always show your exact location is the most "game-y" aspect of a title that avoids so many gaming clichés. It's not just about making the world seem a bit more realistic; the environments of Firewatch are beautiful, and learning how to get around using only the landmarks shown on your map and the compass will all but force you to see more of them.
You'll have to navigate a bit the old fashioned way, even if the forest of Firewatch is designed in such a way that you'll never be lost for long. The game is also set in 1989, so there's no complaining that everyone would just be able to use a GPS.
Playing this way adjusts the pace in a way that makes the game feel a bit more measured, and you'll no longer be able to know where you are at a glance. I get why the option is there, some people won't enjoy playing this way, but if you're in the mood for a bit more of an adventure in a game that already has its share of tense moments? This is the best way to do it.
You can read our review of Firewatch, and be sure to take pictures as you're exploring!