Games are so frequently given away for free on Steam that it is a surprise anyone needs to buy anything on the platform. From AAA titles to underrated masterpieces, if one is fast enough, they can build an entire Steam library out of just the games handed out for 100% off. Of course, in order to get these games, users have to know when they’re fully discounted and grab them quickly, as the discount period rarely lasts long.
Fortunately, in this particular instance, Steam users have quite a few days to grab this critically acclaimed single-player title completely for free before it returns to its full price. This title has dropped to 100% off alongside the many other free Steam games available this month, but it absolutely shouldn’t be overlooked, as it could be the perfect game for those interested in a single-player narrative-driven adventure that doesn’t cost a cent.
The game in question is The Red Lantern, an indie survival game from developer Timberline Studio. Released back in 2021 on PC, and subsequently on other platforms, The Red Lantern sees players venture across the Alaskan wilderness on a dog sled as they attempt to navigate its most deadly challenges. It ostensibly brings a little more Telltale-esque decision-making to the Long Dark experience, as players will be forced to make difficult decisions as their supplies run short, they’re faced with ferocious animals, or the path ahead becomes treacherous.
The Red Lantern is a mostly linear affair, with the dogs driving the player’s sled, and the player’s choices dictating if they veer off course or continue onward. Many have described it as a walking simulator, with it being more akin to the critically acclaimed Road 96 than an open-world title like Rust. Each run could end in disaster, but the player always learns from whatever kills them and enters the next run better equipped. Reaching the finish line won’t take long, but there’s plenty of replay value to be found in the different paths and choices one can make.
The Red Lantern is largely considered to be a fairly underrated indie hidden gem, garnering a Very Positive rating on Steam from 888 reviews. One Steam reviewer called it “a cozy hardcore walking simulator where choices matter,” with another stating that it is “probably the most beautiful game both visually and story-wise I’ve played this year. 11/10.” Steam users can download the game completely for free until Thursday, June 18, at 1 pm, and should they, it’ll be theirs to keep forever, no strings attached.
If petting dogs and heading out on an adventure voiced by Horizon Zero Dawn’s own Ashly Burch sounds fun, then it is absolutely worth picking up The Red Lantern for free before June 18. It typically costs $24.99, so this is a fairly significant discount on offer. Of course, if you miss out on this free game, there are plenty of other amazing free Steam games to grab. However, in the meantime, be sure to add The Red Lantern to your Steam library before it goes back to full price.
- Released
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October 22, 2020
- ESRB
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t
- Engine
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unity
- Multiplayer
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Online Multiplayer