I've played maybe ten walking simulators, including some of the most prominent (Gone Home, Stanley Parable, Dear Esther, etc.). What Remains of Edith Finch might be my favorite. The storytelling, pacing, mystery, mix of gameplay styles, music, and art come together for a poignant experience.
The game begins with Edith's return to her multi-generational family home. While her narration informs us of her family's history as she knows it, her curiosity and exploration gradually uncover the secrets of the Finch clan. Which tales are true, and which are embellished? Does it matter?
I won't spoil anything, but if you're feeling somber, you might wait on this game for another day. It's definitely not soul-destroying, but it can tug your heart strings some. Fair warning.
Any complaints? Some, but they're minor. Proper saving is forbidden with a checkpoint system in its place. I see why, since some sequences are best played in a single go, but having to repeat segments when life interrupts play is unwelcome. Contrast is too intense at times: a corner of a room can be shadowed black, hiding all detail while the other end is overbright. This can be softened through display settings, but it means either tweaking your picture on the fly as environments change, or just accepting sub-par imagery at times (with some areas blacked out or overbright from intended contrast, or washed out by compensating monitor adjustments). There are also characters I wanted to know much more about who are given short shrift.
Overall, the negatives didn't ruin anything. Replete with auditory and visual beauty, and packed with narrative detail that rewards second and even third plays through, What Remains of Edith Finch was well worth the price. It leaves an impression that you'll still think about days later, like any worthwhile story does.
