Baby Steps is a physics-based walking simulator that blends elements of 3D platforming with deliberate frustration and humor. Released in 2025 for PC and PlayStation 5, this indie title from developers Bennett Foddy, Gabe Cuzzillo, and Maxi Boch puts you in control of Nate, an unemployed character discovering the simple act of walking as a profound ability. Published by Devolver Digital, it draws inspiration from games like Getting Over It, emphasizing precise, physics-driven movement in a misty mountain environment.
Gameplay
In Baby Steps, the core mechanic revolves around fully simulated physics-based walking, where you manually place each footstep for Nate. This awkward control scheme turns basic movement into a challenging puzzle, especially when navigating steep inclines, obstacles, and uneven terrain on a massive mountain. Falls are common and punishing, often sending you tumbling back significant distances, which adds to the masocore style of play. The game includes a dynamic onesie soilage system that tracks dirt and wear on Nate's outfit based on your actions, along with a world that responds with a soundtrack composed of 420 unique beats and vibes. You can interact with wearable and carriable items to aid progress, and the open-world atmosphere encourages exploration at your own pace, though setbacks demand patience and precision.
The hiking experience unfolds in a shrouded, serene setting filled with local fauna and scenic views, but the real draw is the satisfaction of overcoming brutally difficult sections after repeated failures. Controls feel intentionally unwieldy, mimicking a toddler's first steps, which amplifies both the humor and the irritation.
Game Modes
Baby Steps focuses on a single-player adventure without distinct game modes. The entire experience centers on one lengthy trek up the mountain, allowing you to progress through the story and challenges in a linear yet explorable fashion. There are no multiplayer options or alternative modes mentioned, keeping the emphasis on individual perseverance and discovery.
Story and Setting
You play as Nate, a relatable "failson" figure grappling with a wasted life, who embarks on this mountainous journey to find meaning. The narrative unfolds through environmental storytelling and subtle character development, set against a misty world that seems to come alive as you climb. Non-collectible hats add quirky, non-essential flair, while the overall trek builds a sense of personal growth amid constant physical comedy and setbacks.
Is It Worth Playing?
Baby Steps has garnered generally favorable critic reception, with a Metacritic score of 77 out of 100 based on 26 reviews, praising its quirky physics and rewarding challenges. User ratings are more mixed, averaging 5.5 out of 10 from 52 ratings, with some players loving the humor and others frustrated by the difficulty. If you enjoy masocore games that test your patience, like those from Bennett Foddy's previous works, this title offers a unique blend of hilarity and triumph. It's particularly suited for those who appreciate indie experiments in movement mechanics, but it might not appeal if you prefer straightforward platforming without frequent failures. As of early 2026, the game remains in its launch state without noted updates or seasons, making it a solid pick for solo players seeking a fresh, if infuriating, adventure.
