Walkerman (2017)

Walkerman is an Adventure Game and Visual Novel that immerses players in the art of hunting supernatural entities. Each creature in the game follows a distinct set of rules that players must identify and exploit to defeat them, echoing traditional folklore such as vampires being vulnerable to garlic or werewolves to silver bullets. The gameplay revolves around investigation, strategy, and understanding each monster's unique behavior patterns.

Gameplay Mechanics

Every chapter of Walkerman centers on a particular supernatural creature and the methods required to investigate and confront it. Players must carefully study their target, determine its weaknesses, collect essential items, and then engage in combat. Battles are conducted on an isometric, pseudo-board game layout where the player chooses actions from a selection of options. These encounters are designed with multiple solutions, influenced by the player’s inventory and the knowledge they have gathered about the creature.

Beyond monster hunting, the game also allows players to navigate the protagonist's personal life. Decisions such as whom to trust, where to obtain money, and other personal interactions directly impact the story’s progression, adding depth to the narrative experience.

Prologue: The Thing in the Weald

The story begins with Jorgen, a nineteen-year-old serf who embarks on an unusual career as a monster hunter, known in the game as a “walkerman.” His duties involve patrolling streets and alleyways at night, confronting supernatural beings that emerge after sunset. Jorgen’s journey toward the city-state of Midgard is abruptly interrupted by an unexpected event, propelling him into a mysterious and dangerous world beyond reason and light.

Act 1: Welcome to Midgard

Upon arriving in Midgard, Jorgen encounters a city filled with suspicious figures, dangerous nights, and a pervasive sense of decay. Alienated by his fellow citizens yet driven by determination, he embarks on what can be described as a solitary revolution, attempting to assert his presence in a world full of challenges and hostility. Players guide Jorgen through this complex environment, shaping his relationships and strategic choices.

Features

• Over twelve detailed illustrations bringing characters and settings to life
• Dozens of fully illustrated and unique characters
• Branching storylines influenced by player decisions
• Five substantial installments featuring abstract and descriptive puzzle-solving elements
• Pseudo-board game style battle sequences allowing multiple tactical approaches
• A comprehensive soundtrack with new tracks released in each episode
• An extras menu including a CG gallery and a music room

Content Advisory

Walkerman includes themes and visuals that may be violent, disturbing, or sexual in nature. The game is therefore unsuitable for young children and is intended for mature audiences.

Walkerman is a unique adventure game that mixes monster hunting with a deep story. Each creature has its own rules, and figuring them out is satisfying and clever. The battles feel strategic without being overly complicated, and the branching story gives real meaning to your choices.

The visuals and soundtrack are excellent, adding atmosphere to every scene. The game isn’t afraid to tackle darker themes, so it’s best for mature players. Overall, Walkerman offers a fresh take on adventure games and keeps you thinking at every turn.

We recommend Walkerman if you enjoy story-driven games with strategy and investigation. It’s engaging, different, and well worth your time.