Many modern games are predicated on giving players a stern and often unrelenting challenge, pushing gamers to master mechanics and situating them in pressurized boss battles and scenarios that ratchet up the tension to fiery levels. Yet some intense games take an unexpected pivot, where they provide us with a relaxing chapter full of exploration, or surround us with gorgeous locales to dim these feelings of intensity. Here we take a bath in videogames’ soothing waters and bring attention to the lovelier chapters and levels in games that are otherwise very action-packed and grandiose.
We open things up with Chapter Twelve from Uncharted 4: A Thief’s End. We’re not talking about the Madagascar chapter here because in Chapter Twelve you explore a picturesque island with many collectibles. Nate can dive underwater and navigate shipwrecks, clamber up statuesque rock faces, and generally utilize the environment like his very own outdoor jungle gym, all without the worry of hostile mercenaries hounding his supple behind. A Thief’s End is a dark Uncharted game, but it’s great to know there was still room to provide a full chapter where you can explore without the drama.
