The Pedestrian

Puzzles exist on a continuum. On one end are puzzles that make you rearrange deck chairs; on the other are puzzles that make you rearrange the anatomical structure of your brain. The best puzzle games offer a mix of the two, providing the player with a sense of forward progression while throwing in the occasional brain-bender.

The Pedestrian mostly sticks with the former type of puzzle; see the pieces, move them around, get from point A to point B. These aren’t bad puzzles by any means – many of them are quite enjoyable, in fact – but rarely did they require any deep consideration or leaps of logic.

So if it’s not puzzles that sets The Pedestrian apart, what is it? It’s the presentation. I honestly think the environments are some of the most realistic and immersive I’ve seen in a game. The limited angles and skillful lighting help create the illusion that you’re looking at real construction sites and college campuses. I was always impressed as my little sign man moved from one gorgeous location to another. There are plenty of fun little Easter eggs hiding in the background, too.

I played this via Game Pass, and in that context The Pedestrian was a fun little experience. But if I’d paid full price for it I might feel differently, especially considering the lack of replay value. All told, it’s a pleasant diversion with lovely backdrops and a few hours of engaging puzzles. Approach with reasonable expectations and you’ll probably enjoy the experience.